A FORMER Saints star who made his Challenge Cup debut at Wembley when Saints lifted the trophy for the first time in 1956 has died age 68.

Mr. Roy 'Robbie' Robinson, who had been ill since February and underwent a leg amputation, passed away at his home in Cowley Hill Lane on Monday night.

He leaves his wife Doreen, children David, Hazel and Lynn, grandchildren Kirsty, Kevin, Ben and Emma, mother May and sisters Sylvia and Mavis.

Born in Wilson Street and a pupil of Rivington Road school, second-rower Roy played for UGB before signing for Saints, where he made 59 appearances and scored 14 tries, and was reserve for the Wembley clash against Halifax.

His big chance came 48 hours before kick-off when told by coach Jim Sullivan that he was in the Saints' line-up because Walter Delves had cried off due to injury, and 25-year-old Roy went out to play the game of his life as 'Fax were defeated 13-2.

A Pilkington employee for many years, he wound up his Rugby League career with Barrow and Warrington, and owned the 'Chocolate Box' newsagents in Duke Street from 1981 to 1995 .

A dab-hand on the snooker and domino tables, Mr. Robinson was a popular figure at Windle Labour club, Dentons Green, and his family are deeply grateful for the care and attention that members have shown to 'Robbie.'

A funeral service will be held at St. Helens Parish Church on Monday at 2pm followed by burial at the borough cemetery.

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