Sir Billy Boston funeral LIVE as thousands take to Wigan streets for farewell to rugby legend

Thousands of people will fill the streets of Wigan today (September 10) as the town pays its respects to rugby league legend Sir Billy Boston – one of the most celebrated players in the sport’s history.

Sir Billy sadly passed away last month at 92-years-old, just weeks after the death of his wife, Lady Joan. The funeral service will be held at The Brick Community Stadium – the home of Wigan Warriors – at 12.30 pm on Thursday. Entry to the stadium is controlled by pre-allocated passes.

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Before the service, a funeral cortege will pass through Wigan, starting at 11.20am at the Bold Hotel in Wigan. Wigan Warriors said at the request of the Boston family, anyone in attendance is encouraged to wear traditional funeral attire, but items of cherry red like scarves, ties and headwear can be worn.

The club said: “We kindly ask that all attendees respect the privacy of the family and the occasion by refraining from taking videos and photographs of the funeral service. At the end of the funeral service, we ask that fans remain in their seats whilst the funeral procession leaves the stadium.

“The service will be conducted by Fr Paul Grady and Sue Gibbons Funeral Service with music performed by Lauren Waterworth. Wigan Warriors’ first team will also be in attendance to give Sir Billy a guard of honour as he makes his final journey.”

Last year, Sir Billy made more history when he became the first rugby league player to be knighted after he was honoured by King Charles at Buckingham Palace.

Following the news of his death, Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, led the tributes for Sir Billy. Mr Burnham, an avid follower 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 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 and most down-to-earth people you could ever wish to meet. He always had time for people and gave so much to back to his adopted home, Wigan.

“I will miss him greatly and am thinking today of Billy’s family, still grieving the recent loss of his beloved wife Joan. A giant of a man in every way. Thank you, Billy, and rest in peace.”

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