Alan Parker awarded BEM for his voluntary services to Rugby League

Alan Parker admits he was “thrilled” to become a Medallist of the Honour of the Order of the British Empire (BEM).

He earned the award for his voluntary services to Rugby League and to the community in Hull.

After working as a referee in the professional game, Parker has been a long-time advocate of amateur and youth rugby league.

For decades, he has produced unstinting work in the City of Hull & District Rugby League, helping lead both the Open Age and Youth competitions.

On receiving the news of his BEM in the King’s Birthday Honours, the 86 year-old admitted: “I couldn’t believe it at first.

“It was a thrill. You don’t do it all for that reason, but it is nice to be appreciated.

“Everyone in Hull knows I’ve put a lot of time into the sport over the years and I do love the game.

“I got a letter about the honour two months ago but was told I had to keep it a secret.

“It was very difficult. I think one of my friends might have guessed when my wife said I needed to get a new suit.

“He said: “Who buys a new suit at 86?!”

“But we managed to keep it quiet – and then I’ve had some lovely messages since it was officially announced.”
Parker, a lifelong Hull KR fan, added: “I went to my first Hull KR game in 1946 so that’s 80 years ago – and I’ve still got the programme!

“I’ve been with the open age leagues for 50 years and the youth leagues for more than 30.

“I started referring in 1956 when I was 18 and I went on to referee at every rugby league ground in the country, including clubs like Mansfield Marksmen, Kent Invicta, Carlisle and Blackpool that no longer exist.

“It’s been a great journey and, with them always being bottom when I first started watching as a kid, it was great to see Rovers win all four trophies last year.”

Rugby Football League interim chief executive Rhodri Jones said: “As a sport we offer Alan Parker all our congratulations and warm wishes on his BEM.

“Rugby league prides itself on its community spirit and he certainly embodies that with the volunteering he has done for more than half a century.

“The sport wouldn’t be what it is without selfless characters like Alan and we thank him for his continued efforts and support.”