BBC North East Investigations
BBCRelatives of a former England rugby union international who was known as the “prince of half-backs” have attended a ceremony to mark the restoration of his grave.
Ernest William Taylor – known as Little Billie – made 14 appearances for England and captained his country seven times between 1894 and1899.
After Taylor’s grand-daughter Maureen Ross contacted Whitley Bay Rockcliff RFC his former club arranged a rededication ceremony at his restored resting place.
She said the club had treated them “like family” and was so pleased that the grave of her late grandfather – who died in 1936 aged 67 – now “looks beautiful”.
The former England international’s grandson Chris Taylor said: “It’s very unique to have a grandfather who played for England and I’m very proud.
“I certainly didn’t inherit his sporting ability but we are all very proud of him.”
He said the ceremony meant a lot to the whole family.
In addition to turning out for England, Taylor captained Rockcliff RFC for five seasons and regularly led the county side between 1889 and 1903.
Richard Bloomfield, from Rockcliff RFC, said “Little Billie” played for them following the club’s formation in 1887.
“This grave is a fitting tribute to a local rugby legend,” he said.
