Wigan Council renames town square in honour of Sir Billy Boston

Rugby League star Sir Billy Boston is to be further honoured in his adopted hometown Wigan, with the renaming of the town's square where his statue is situated.

Sir Billy, who was Rugby league's first knight, died last month, aged 92. His funeral took place at Wigan Warriors' Brick Community Stadium on Thursday.

Believe Square will now be called Sir Billy Boston Square "to ensure his legacy continues" in the heart of the town, Wigan Council has announced.

In March, a civic service was held to mark a new plaque being added to his statue, following his knighthood in 2025.

Born in Cardiff in 1934, Sir Billy grew up playing rugby union but faced prejudice because of his ethnicity and was overlooked by his home club.

He came to the attention of rugby league scouts while on national service in the north of England, signing for Wigan in 1953 as a 19-year-old.

Wigan Council leader Nazia Rehman said Sir Billy was "more than a sporting legend, he was a pioneer, an inspiration, and someone who brought immense pride to Wigan Borough".

Rehman said: "Following his passing, we wanted to ensure his legacy continues to be honoured in the heart of our town.

"That's why we are renaming Believe Square, the home of Sir Billy's statue, as Sir Billy Boston Square."

She said it was a "fitting tribute to a remarkable man whose achievements broke barriers, inspired generations, and will never be forgotten".

"Sir Billy's legacy will live on in Wigan, forever," she added.

Sir Billy reached the 100-try milestone in just 68 matches and claimed 478 tries in 488 games for Wigan, helping them win three Challenge Cups and the Championship.

He was picked for the 1954 Great Britain side and was the first black British player to tour Australia and New Zealand.

Wigan's chief executive Kris Radlinski said: "For generations, people will pass though the [sqaure], children will walk with their families, people who never had the privilege to see Billy play will see his name and ask who he was, and another generation will tell his story."

The player scored 571 tries in his career - a total surpassed only by Australian legend Brian Bevan in top-class rugby league.

There is also a statue of the rugby league great in his home town of Cardiff as well as one outside Wembley stadium and he has been recognised for helping to open doors for black players in sport.

Sir Billy, who had dementia for more than 10 years, was awarded his knighthood before the King's birthday honours list was officially announced last year because of concerns over his health.

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