England world cup hero from Halifax brings trophy home to Yorkshire

One of the heroes of England’s Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup winning team will be showing off the trophy in Yorkshire for the first time this weekend (Sunday 27 August).

Rob Hawkins, 21, who plays for his hometown club Halifax Panthers, is bringing the world cup to the Shay Stadium.

Fans will be able to get a close look and take selfies with the cup ahead of the game between Halifax Panthers and Widnes Vikings in the Betfred Championship.

And Rob will be joined at the stadium by a bus named in his honour. The First Bus single-decker will be used on routes throughout the area and spread knowledge of his achievements among local people as well as fans.

The idea to name the bus was made by drivers at the First Bus Halifax depot after Rob has enjoyed a phenomenal year of success in the game. The world cup winner also helped Halifax Panthers win a thrilling Wheelchair Super League Grand Final against Leeds Rhinos last October, scoring five tries in a 52-48 win, and was also named the club’s Player of the Year 2022.

He said: “I am honoured to have a First Bus named after me. After winning the World Cup last November alongside some of the best team-mates and staff that I could possibly ask for I would never have thought that I would be getting opportunities like this and to be recognised in my home town of Halifax.”

Media enquiries to Richard Harrison, PR Manager, First Bus North of England richard.m.harrison@firstbus.co.uk 07973 668116.

Halifax Panthers club contact Rick Farrell rickfarrell@halifaxpanthers.co.uk

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