Thousands of people will fill the streets of Wigan today (September 10) as the city pays tribute to rugby league legend Sir Billy Boston – one of the most celebrated players in the history of the sport.
Sir Billy sadly passed away last month aged 92, just weeks after the death of his wife Lady Joan. The funeral will take place at Brick Community Stadium, home of Wigan Warriors, on Thursday at 12.30pm. Entry to the stadium requires pre-issued passes.
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Before the service, the funeral cortege will pass through Wigan, starting at 11:20am at the Bold Hotel in Wigan. Wigan Warriors said that, at the request of Boston’s family, everyone in attendance is encouraged to wear traditional funeral attire, but cherry red items such as scarves, ties and hats can also be worn.
Rugby league star Billy Boston will be knighted by King Charles III at Buckingham Palace in 2025.(Image: Getty Images)
The club said: “We ask everyone present to respect the privacy of the family and the event and to refrain from filming or photographing the funeral service. At the end of the funeral service, we ask fans to remain in their seats as the funeral procession leaves the stadium.”
“The service will be conducted by Father Paul Grady and Funeral Director Sue Gibbons, with music by Lauren Waterworth. The Wigan Warriors first team will also be present to provide a guard of honor for Sir Billy as he makes his final journey.”
Last year, Sir Billy made history by becoming the first rugby league player to be knighted after King Charles honored him at Buckingham Palace.
Sir Billy Boston’s funeral will take place today in Wigan, Greater Manchester.(Image: Pennsylvania)
Following the news of his death, Prime Minister Andy Burnham led a farewell ceremony for Sir Billy. Mr Burnham, an avid fan of the sport, said he was “heartbroken” to learn of Sir Billy’s death just four days after the funeral of his wife, Lady Joan.
“Heartbroken to hear that my friend Sir Billy Boston has died,” Burnham wrote on X. “Billy was one of the greatest rugby league players of all time, but also one of the kindest, most down-to-earth people you would ever want to meet. He always made time for people and gave so much to his adopted home of Wigan.
“I will miss him dearly and today my thoughts are with Billy’s family who are still grieving the recent loss of his beloved wife Joan. A giant in every way. Thank you Billy and rest in peace.”
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