Rugby League

Parkes rugby league stalwart, Ray (Shorty) Neilsen has been rewarded for his many years of service to the sport with Life Membership of Group 11.

Ray has been a player or official for most of his life and said he was humbled by the honour.

'You don't do these things to get recognition,' he said. 'You do it because you love the sport and want to see it prosper, and get young people playing.'

'It is a humbling experience, but most appreciated. I'd do it all again, wouldn't change a thing.'

Ray started playing with Parkes back in 1966 and in his very first season, was a member of the victorious Under 18 team which won the grand final over arch rival, Forbes 7-4.

The second season in Under 18s the side was 'robbed' by Eugowra in the final.

YOUNG officials from the York Rugby League Referees' Society have continued to make their way in the game.

Rugby League was among a number sports that were entertained at 10 Downing Street on Wednesday as the Prime Minister the Right Hon. Tony Blair MP., launched an initiative which will see 100 high profile personalities become patrons of London community sports clubs.

Included on the guest list at Number Ten were the RFL's Chief Operating Officer Nigel Wood, Harlequins RL Head Coach Brian McDermott and South London Rugby League stalwart Dave Bold. The scheme will see many of London's junior Rugby League clubs allocated patrons from a wide range of backgrounds. Among those people already confirmed as patrons are BBC Sports presenter Clare Balding, who has agreed to become a patron of the West London Sharks. Clare was among the guests at Number Ten and met members of the Sharks, including junior players Luqman Hayder, Hayder Hayder and Ben Hodgeson.