Wigan Album

Many other young Wigan lads working in the pits and the factories at this time...Nowt special about this Mon. He was an athlete, sure enough, but was he really one of the "greats"? Would you compare him to today's players? Tough lads in those days: no distractions, so to speak...Good picture.

Yes, he was one of the GREATS. He revolutionised 'Full Back Play' By running with the ball. Prior to him, the full backs would just kick the ball to each other. I was only a toddler and can't really remember players, but I went to every game with my dad, and when I was three, I could rhyme off the Wigan team before I could read. He was one of my dad's favourite players. Later in life I got to know him and his brother Andy. He was a real gentleman. Always dressed smartly whenever he was out.

I'm not a real Rugby fan as you know, but the game in the forties and fifties, fascinates me. This fellow, I have no doubt, was a true gent and a fine player to boot (pardon the pun). Has anyone written any biographies of these players? Ken Gee in particular, interests me. Life was tough in those days, but these players set standards for all to follow...They were dedicated sportsmen in an age of austerity. Imagine what they could have achieved with all the trappings of this modern age...

Jarvo, your comment "Nowt special about this Mon" told me you aren't a real rugby fan. I totally agree with Ron's comments, Martin was a true Legend of the RL game and a real gentleman.

jcf: I was refering to Martin as a working man. The point being: non professionals had normal jobs. He obviously had no airs and graces about him, and rightly so...

Jarvo, my mistake! Point taken.