THE WIDOW of tragic Keighley Cougars star Danny Jones has paid tribute to townspeople for their "overwhelming" support.

She said the backing from the club, wider rugby league community and the public since her husband's death had been immense.

"Keighley people have been absolutely remarkable – both with the support they have given me and to the children," Mrs Jones told the Keighley News.

"That has been the bedrock that the whole rugby league family has built on.

"I am hugely grateful to everyone who has helped me through the past few months. I couldn't have managed without them."

Danny, who was 29, died in May after collapsing during a Cougars game against London Skolars.

It was later discovered the Welsh international had an undetected hereditary heart condition.

On Saturday Mrs Jones, a professional singer, performed the traditional pre-match hymn Abide With Me at the rugby league Challenge Cup final.

There was hardly a dry eye in Wembley Stadium as she sang, while pictures of herself, Danny and their young children were shown on the giant screens.

Mrs Jones was then joined on the field by her eight-month-old twins, Bobby and Phoebe, to a standing ovation from the 80,000-plus fans at the showpiece match.

"It was a great privilege and honour to go out there and sing such a special traditional rugby league song," she said.

"I wanted to do it to honour Danny and as a thank-you to all rugby league fans.

"It was a bit nerve-wracking initially, but when I heard everyone cheering it was like receiving a huge, welcoming hug. The experience was very humbling and one I won't forget."

Since Danny's death, a fund set up to support his family has raised more than £230,000 and continues to grow.

Cougars organised for more than 40 volunteers from the club and from Bradford Bulls and Halifax to travel to Wembley on Saturday and carry out a bucket collection.

The RFL paid for the coach and tickets into the match.

"We don't know how much the bucket collection raised yet, but I am sure it will be a lot and reflect the tremendous respect rugby league has for one very brave young lady," said club chairman, Gary Fawcett.

"For Lizzie to do what she did on Saturday, with such professionalism and quality, was truly amazing.

"As a club, we are very proud to support Lizzie in whatever way we can. It is the least we can do for her and their twins."

During the Cougars' rescheduled match against the Skolars on Monday, there was a round of applause in the sixth minute – Danny wore the number six shirt – in tribute.