Former Hull FC, Wakefield Trinity and Hull KR star of the 1950s and early 60's Bob Coverdale has sadly passed away.

Bob was a member of Hull FC’s powerhouse pack in the 1950s and during a glittering six-year career with the club he made over 200 appearances.

Nicknamed “The Major of Dunswell” Bob played three times for Yorkshire but his greatest honour came when he helped Great Britain to glory in the inaugural World Cup in 1954.

He missed only five of Hull’s 45 matches in their Championship-winning campaign in 1955-56.

Bob, who was in a Nursing Home in Beverley, lost his wife some 18 months ago and had no family. He worked for the Electricity Board and Hull legend John Whiteley said: “Because of his job he had tremendous forearms and when he grabbed hold of you it was like being crushed in a vice.

“Bob was a solid, dependable player who earned the respect of his teammates and opponents.”

He was subsequently transferred to Wakefield in 1957 for £1,625 and he then finished his career at Craven Park and along with notables such as Alvin Ackerley and Jim Drake, Bob was brought to Rovers by Colin Hutton to offer a young side much needed experience, and with the inspiration of Harry Poole, the side started to blossom.

When he finished playing, Bob became 'A' Team coach at Hull KR coach for a while.

Off the field his life was one of caring. Both he and his late wife stayed at their respective homes to look after elderly parents and eventually married after a fifty year courtship. His late wife eventually became ill and Bob became her carer as well. A regular church goer until his death and a very nice bloke who would recall his playing days if prompted.