PRIME MINISTER Keir Starmer has paid tribute to rugby league icon John Kear.
Kear, who had a long and storied career as player, coach and broadcaster, died on Sunday aged 71.
His death was raised in the Commons at Prime Minister’s Questions by Harpreet Uppal, MP for Huddersfield.
She said: “The rugby league family lost a giant last week. John Kear, the former England, Wales and Challenge Cup winning coach, died suddenly on Sunday afternoon, on his journey north, after commentating on the Challenge Cup finals at Wembley the previous day.
“After playing for Castleford, his local team, he moved to teaching and coaching for a total of 700 matches with nine clubs, including famous underdog Challenge Cup wins with Sheffield Eagles in 1998 and Hull FC in 2005.
“John loved his sport, and was in turn, was loved by the sport.
“Will the Prime Minister join me in paying tribute to John and sending condolences to his wife, Dawn, his family and friends?”
Starmer replied: “Can I thank her for raising this and pay tribute to John. We are all deeply sad to hear of his passing.
“He was a remarkable athlete, coach, and an energetic and enthusiastic champion of his sport. He will be missed by supporters across the country.
“I think my thoughts, all of our thoughts, are with his wife, Dawn, his family, and his friends at this sad time.”