Former Leeds Rhinos and Castleford Tigers player George Claughton has sadly passed away, with the Rhinos confirming the news.
Claughton only played the once for the Rhinos when he debuted against Castleford, the club who he would go on to represent 142 times across his career.
The sad news of Mr Claughton’s passing was confirmed by Leeds Rhinos who released a short statement confirming the news.
It read: “It is with much sadness that the club have learned of the passing of former player George Claughton.
“Full back or winger Claughton made his Leeds debut at Castleford on 1st October 1971 gaining heritage number 1044. That would prove to be Claughton’s only appearance in blue and amber before a move to Castleford proved a masterstroke.
“At Wheldon Road, he played 12 years for Castleford winning the Yorkshire Cup in 1981 at Headingley against Bradford Northern. In total, he made 142 appearances for Castleford before leaving the club at the start of the 1982-83 season.
“On behalf of everyone connected with the club, we would like to pass on our condolences to George’s family and friends. Rest in peace.”
It would seem that Mr Claughton had been suffering with dementia as per a GoFundMe set up by his grandson in 2023.
During his playing days he operated on the wing or at full-back with the 1981 Yorkshire Cup victory seeing Claughton play in the number one shirt.
Castleford won that game 10-5 over Bradford Northern which signified the biggest trophy win of his career, leaving the club just a couple of seasons later.
He would finish his career with Rochdale before retiring from the game.
All at Serious About Rugby League would like to offer and wish our most sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mr Claughton during this difficult period.
