A lad from Donkey Common

Anyone who ever watched Austin Rhodes play rugby will say that he was a good 'un. He was virtually the complete player and his wide range of skills meant that he could cover several positions on the field. Although several of his major triumphs were when playing at full-back, he was always a stand-off at heart. His marvellous sporting story covers his early days at St Austin's school in Thatto Heath; his part in Saints' first-ever Challenge Cup success; Forces rugby union with the RAF; his delight at being a team-mate of Tom van Vollenhoven and further Championship and Challenge Cup glory in the late 1950s and early 1960s with St Helens. The former altar boy also was a Rugby League World Cup winner with Great Britain. Spells at Leigh and Swinton are also integral parts of the story, together with a marvellous finale as coach of the powerful amateur outfit Pilkington Recs - the scourge of professional clubs in the Challenge Cup. All rugby league fans will enjoy the fascinating story of a rugby league great.