Keely mentor, wrestling legend and rugby stalwart to receive new award honouring Sir Billy's legacy

Keely mentor, wrestling legend and rugby stalwart to receive new award honouring Sir Billy's legacy

Sir Billy Boston receives his updated Believe Star from the Mayor in March 2026

A trio of community sport legends will become the first recipients of a new award named in honour of the late, great Sir Billy Boston.

Due to be presented at Be Well’s Believe Sports Awards this weekend, the Sir Billy Boston Lifetime Achievement Award will recognise long-standing dedication to local grassroots sport in Wigan Borough.

The three inaugural winners are Keely Hodgkinson’s former mentor Margaret Galvin, Snakepit wrestling guru Roy Wood and amateur rugby league stalwart Joe Fitzsimmons.

Their incredible contributions to the borough will be celebrated during this year's ceremony at The Edge, Wigan on Saturday (17 October).

Councillor Chris Ready, Wigan Council’s cabinet portfolio holder for communities and neighbourhoods, said: “Sir Billy Boston was a true Wigan Borough icon respected and beloved by all, whose name is synonymous with greatness.

“Although he is sadly no longer with us, his legacy will live on forever - not least at Sir Billy Boston Square, which now proudly bears his name as well as his statue.

“As a gentleman, pioneer and an unmatched talent in rugby league, Sir Billy represented the very best of both sport and humanity, and his legendary achievements, warmth and generosity will continue to inspire us for generations to come.

“With the launch of the Sir Billy Boston Lifetime Achievement Award, we will further honour his memory while recognising the remarkable contributions of others who have dedicated their lives to sport in our community.

“I can think of none more deserving than our three inaugural recipients; Joe Fitzsimmons, Margaret Galvin and Roy Wood.

“Through their long-standing passion, unwavering commitment and tireless dedication to helping others unleash their potential, they epitomise everything that’s special about grassroots sports in our borough.

“We look forward to celebrating their achievements at our Believe Sports Awards and giving them the recognition they deserve.”

Alongside her late husband Joe, Margaret Galvin has nurtured generations of young athletes at Leigh Harriers – most notably Keely Hodgkinson, who she first coached when the future Olympic champion was just nine years old.

Like Keely, both Joe and Margaret have a Believe Star on the council’s Walk of Fame in Leigh Civic Square.

Margaret said: “I’m truly honoured. Sir Billy Boston was, and still is, a Wigan legend, so the significance of receiving an award bearing his name is certainly not lost on me.

“Leigh Harriers & Athletic Club is my second family, and no matter how many times I think I might find a ‘get out’ clause, somehow, I’m still here!

“I feel genuinely humbled. It means more to me than I can really put into words.”

Head coach at Aspull Olympic Wrestling Club’s world-renowned ‘Snakepit’, Roy Wood has dedicated his life to wrestling for more than 60 years.

He has coached at both the Olympic and Commonwealth Games and was awarded the British Empire Medal for services to wrestling and young people in the King’s 2024 New Year Honours List.

Roy said: “It’s an absolute honour to receive this award, I am truly overwhelmed. Sir Billy Boston was an exceptionally talented man who was an inspiration to watch. He put Wigan on the map and was respected by all. I will treasure this award always.”

As a founder member and club secretary at Wigan St Judes ARLFC, Joe Fitzsimmons has been one of the driving forces behind amateur rugby league in Wigan for more than 45 years.

A Life Member of the Rugby Football League, he has also served as Wigan Amateur League Secretary and was part of the National Conference League Committee for four decades.

Joe said: “Sir Billy Boston has always been one of my all-time rugby idols, so to receive an award bearing his name is incredibly special and something I will treasure.

“I see this honour not just as recognition for myself, but for the club and all the wonderful people who have been part of its journey. I am proud to accept it on behalf of the entire St Judes family.”

Eight other prizes will also be presented at this year’s Believe Sports Awards, which are sponsored by JJH Building Contractors Ltd and organised by the council’s Be Well health and wellbeing service.

As well as Club of the Year, Team of the Year and Young Sports Achiever, categories include the Inclusion in Sport Award, Volunteer of the Year, Unsung Hero, the Changing Lifestyle Award and Overcoming Adversity Through Sport.

England Ashes cricket hero Matthew Hoggard MBE will be presenting the awards as the VIP guest speaker.

Coun Ready added: “The Believe Sports Awards are all about marking the wonderful achievements and recognising those who put so much time and energy into supporting others. It promises to be another fabulous occasion and a true celebration of sport in Wigan Borough.”