Former Hunslet prop Billy Adams has issued a heartfelt note of thanks to fellow members of the Hunslet RL Ex-Parkside Former Players’ Association who joined him in a google media gathering earlier this month to help ensure that a unique reunion has continued – despite the impact of Covid-19.

Adams is one of the youngest members of the Association, which was formed in 1973 following the sale of the Parkside ground by the then-directors, and as such was perhaps better-placed than most of his colleagues to use modern technology to keep a tradition stretching back almost half-a-century alive.

 The exclusive group has gathered on the first Sunday of June, latterly at the supportive Hilton, Leeds, without a break – until this year.

Although those plans were scuppered by Covid-19 the thread remains unbroken, with an impressive number of former players brushing aside any inevitable unfamiliarity with modern technology to take part.

Adams – who scored Hunslet’s last points at Parkside with his conversion of Ronnie Dobson’s try in the 22-5 reverse at the hands of York on 21 April 1973 – said in an email to fellow members: “I just thought I’d take the time to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

“If ever there was a test in life the year 2020 was it. But despite everything we managed to have our annual re-union, even though it was `virtual’.

“I’d like to thank all 20 of our throng who managed to attend, and after all the issues it was a resounding success.”

He concluded: “A personal thank you to all who thanked me by email for my efforts – and a personal phone call from (committee member) Alan Simpson was the icing on the cake!

“I hope to see you all on the first Sunday in June 2021 for our 49th annual re-union, if not before.”