KEIGHLEY R.L.F.C. has lost one of its favourite sons with the passing of Sid Hebden, who died on January 15, 2019 aged 81 years.

Sid originated from Leeds, but it was while playing for Keighley Albion A.R.L.F.C. that he came to the notice of Keighley R.L.F.C. as a promising scrum-half.

He scored a hat-trick of tries with the ‘A’ team against York ‘A’, prior to making his first team debut away against Leigh on September 7, 1957.

Sid played a total of 76 games for the Keighley first team, scoring 15 tries, with his final appearance being on February 24, 1962 at home against Bradford Northern.

Small in stature with a sturdy build, Sid formed a dynamic partnership with stand-off Roy Sabine.

This half-back duo, along with the rampaging runs of the powerful Geoff Crewdson, caused havoc with many opposing defences.

Sid was very popular with fellow players and spectators alike.

Following his retirement from playing with the Keighley club, he moved over to East Yorkshire.

It was while there that he played for several seasons with Pocklington R.U.F.C.

However, Sid remained in contact with the West Yorkshire club, being a regular attendee at the Keighley R.L.F.C. ex-players functions.

His heritage number is 710.

Sid leaves a widow, Carol, as well as daughter Abi and son-in-law Gary.

His funeral service was held at The East Riding Crematorium in Octon on Wednesday, January 29 at 12:30pm.

DAVID INGHAM