Robins devastated by the passing of Rob Crossland

Robins devastated by the passing of Rob Crossland

Hull KR are deeply saddened by the passing of former Vice Chairman, Rob Crossland.

Everyone at the club extends their deepest sympathies to his wife Lesley, their family and friends.

Rob, 57, had been battling cancer for some time having been given the all clear earlier last year. Sadly, it returned and he passed away peacefully yesterday.

A lifelong fan, Rob grew up opposite Colin Hutton’s pub on Portabello Street and was a lifelong school friend of Neil Hudgell. Rob’s informal association with the club began in the early noughties, sponsoring the very first version of the club website hullkr.co.uk.

Over the years, many of Rob’s businesses have taken pride of place on the front of club jerseys including Parasol, Brian Alfred and Clear Sky, providing significant support to the club.

Rob’s contribution to the club’s playing budget, alongside Neil, was significant in the club’s resurgence and promotion to Super League for the first time at the end of 2006.

In 2007 he was formally invited to join the club’s board, as Vice Chairman, a position he remained in and cherished until he stood down in early 2019 to focus on other business commitments.

Rob remained an avid fan of his beloved Robins, and was invited to the 2023 Challenge Cup Final as a special guest of the club, to enjoy the occasion with his close family.

Owner Neil Hudgell paid tribute to his friend, saying: 'Rob and I grew up in the shadow of the old Craven Park. Those formative years shaped our love for the club. He used to run errands for Colin Hutton out of the Zetland Arms pub.

'We had so many laughs over the years, teaming up again 20 years ago to begin the club's journey back to Super League. He was with us at Wembley and again at our end of season awards night. He has fought his illness with incredible bravery and dignity throughout. Willie (Peters) dedicated our win last Thursday night to Rob, a game he watched on television.

'It is desperately sad he will not be here to see where this journey takes us. He will remain front and centre of our thoughts as we mourn his loss, and send our love and support to his wonderful family.'