Phil Lowe remembered as hundreds attend funeral of Hull KR hero

Hull KR paid their respects to club legend Phil Lowe on Monday as more than 500 mourners attended his funeral at Craven Park. Lowe, one of the greatest players to ever play for the club, passed away last month at the age of 74.

Officials, players, staff and supporters were all in attendance for the service, with the players forming a guard of honour as his coffin passed before the service.

It was an emotional service as those in attendance were able to remember a man who was well-loved and respected across the city. A second-rower, Lowe made 418 appearances for the club, representing them over three decades. He scored 179 tries for the club and was part of the Wembley side that defeated Hull FC in the 1980 Challenge Cup final, one of five finals he played against FC, and also won the Yorkshire Cup and the Rugby League Championship and Premiership.

A Great Britain Ashes series winner in 1970 on the famous tour against Australia despite not featuring under the leadership of a later close friend in Johnny Whiteley, Lowe played in the 1972 World Cup final win, in a career that stands out against any who came before or after him.

Club owner Neil Hudgell was among those at Craven Park for the service, having previously revealed that he was his childhood hero.

"Phil was an extraordinary man. A one-off. He achieved everything in the sport, being a Grand Final winner on both sides of the world. He was decorated for his country many times over. Phil did it with modesty and humility. He was my hero when growing up around the sport in the 1970’s.

“The sight of Phil Lowe in full flight was something no one who witnessed it will ever forget. He became a very good friend of mine over the last 20 years, we made many great memories together. He was always direct and to the point, but had a very kind heart. He was respected everywhere."

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