JAMES Feather says Danny Jones was one of the biggest influences on his career as he prepares to hang up his boots at the end of the season.

The former Cougars half-back, who died after suffering a cardiac arrest during Keighley's game at London Skolars in May 2015, played alongside Feather for many seasons.

The long-serving captain, who announced his retirement at the weekend, said: “Out of all the memories, 'Jonesy' passing away is the one that will always be with me as he was the man who made me the player I am today.

"I was the No 9 and he was the No 6. He bossed me around the field so I owe a lot of my career to Danny."

Feather, who was good friends with Jones, says the first game after his death will be one that stands out in a career which has spanned over 300 games.

Keighley beat Coventry 52-10 in front of crowd of more than 4,000 as Cougars paid tribute to Jones with an emphatic victory, which saw Feather score three tries.

He said: “I’d never scored a hat-trick since I was eight years old and to do it in front of Lizzie and the twins (Danny's wife and children) and that crowd – it felt like Danny was looking down on me that afternoon."

Feather's other stand-out game was the 2011 Grand Final win over Workington Town, which Cougars won 32-12 under boss Jason Demetriou to win promotion to the second tier.

'Buster' recalled: “I even scored a try two weeks after I’d had surgery. JD (Jason Demetriou) gave me the nod and it is the game I will always watch back over and over on DVD."

Feather has spent his whole career with Cougars, even paying for a contract with Hunslet to be terminated at his own cost after a change of heart saw him opt against playing under former Keighley boss Barry Eaton at the Hawks in 2015.

The 33-year-old home-grown product, who played for local amateur clubs before joining Cougars in 2003, said: "I have to offer my thanks to so many people over the years including my coaches and team-mates at Cougars Cubs, Keighley Albion and Cougars and obviously my friends, family and my wife Gina, who has been fully supportive of me throughout my entire career.

"I don’t feel sometimes people appreciate that we’re away from our wives and families four times a week and they’re at home waiting for us.

“I also have to thank my sponsors David and Margaret Proctor, as they are two of the most selfless people you could ever wish to meet. What they gave me in my testimonial was amazing and they have sponsored me throughout my entire career. They’re amazing people and I'm really grateful.

“Hopefully me and the boys can push on now in the Eights and finish the season and my career on a high.”

Cougars' paid tribute to their long-serving skipper on their website. A statement read: "Everyone associated with the Keighley Cougars would like to thank Buster for his 15 years of loyal service to the club.

"We are extremely proud of everything he has accomplished for the club and have no doubt that he will one day be inducted into the Cougars' Hall of Fame."