Andy Burnham and Prime Minister Lead Tributes to Rugby League Icon Sir Billy Boston

Andy Burnham and the Prime Minister have led tributes to rugby league icon Sir Billy Boston, who died on Tuesday at the age of 92.

Described as a "giant of a man in every way" by both, Boston's career spanned almost 500 tries for Wigan Warriors and Great Britain, with numerous honors. His death follows that of his wife, Lady Joan, by just four days.

The Prime Minister remembered Boston as "one of the greatest rugby league players of all time" and "one of the kindest and most down-to-earth people you could ever wish to meet," highlighting his contributions to Wigan and his kindness.

Wigan Warriors plan an emotional tribute night on Thursday, with the team's head coach, Matt Peet, and CEO, Kris Radlinski, paying heartfelt tributes. Radlinski shared a personal visit with Boston before his death, underscoring the deep impact of his loss.

St Helens' chair, Eamonn McManus, praised Boston as a "giant amongst giants" who symbolized the sport's pioneering role in breaking racial barriers in the 1950s and 60s.

Boston's legacy includes being the first non-white player selected for Great Britain in 1954 and the first rugby league player to be knighted for his services to the sport in 2022.

Tributes emphasize not just his sporting achievements but his humility, generosity, and the enduring impact on Wigan and the broader rugby league community.