Puggy is king of the fans

Rochdale Hornets King of the Fans

Championships sponsor Kingstone Press has named Andy Birch as Rochdale Hornets King of the Fans - a season long hunt to find the best rugby league Championships supporters.

Andy, affectionately known as 'Captain Pugwash' by the Hornets faithful, was nominated for his unwavering support for the Hornets over 47 years.

On hearing the good news Andy said: "I have supported the Hornets since 1966 so I am very proud to be King of the Fans. The Hornets are blessed with many dedicated fans who work very hard for the club, and it is nice to be recognised as part of that group."

As part of his prize, Andy will receive a crate of cider and a family ticket to Championships Finals Day, where he will be welcomed onto the pitch at half time to fly the flag for Rochdale Hornets. He is now also a contender to be named ‘Ultimate King of the Fans' at the Final along with another 22 Kings of the Fans crowned from across the other Championships clubs. In addition to the title, which is the first of its kind, the winning super fan will receive a year's supply of cider and an England Rugby League money can't buy prize.

Gordon Johncox, Kingstone Press Cider Managing Director, said: "We are thrilled to name Andy Rochdale Hornets King of the Fans and to highlight his admirable dedication to the club. Andy truly deserves the title and we hope he enjoys Finals Day.

"We were overwhelmed with the response to the competition which has shown the passion and commitment the fans have for their clubs. It has been a perfect way to celebrate the Championships and importantly reward those loyal fans who come out week after week to support their clubs.

"We look forward to welcoming all fans from across the sport to Championships Finals Day and crowning the winners." 

Julie Clarke, Rochdale Hornets Club Secretary, commented: "This year Andy bought a ten year season ticket, even though he knew he wouldn't be able to make most of the games through ill health. Only hospitalisation keeps him away from Spotland, and he has even made the trip to an away game this season - he rarely missed before this year. He has been in hospital most of the year, and recently had his leg amputated, meaning he has now lost both his legs. Nevertheless, he still continues to buy the shirts, match day programmes and we lend him the match day DVD when its available so he doesn't miss out on his beloved Hornets. He writes the fans section in our matchday programme, and until recently had the thankless task of moderating the unofficial club message board. He is our deserved King of Fans."

Kingstone Press Championships Final Day is the culmination of 26 intense league fixtures and three weeks of nail-biting play-off action. It is set to be a spectacular finale to the Kingstone Press Championships season as six teams battle it out in three thrilling finals at Leigh Sports Village on Sunday 29 September.

Kingstone Press will be creating a dedicated Fan Zone at the stadium providing pre-match entertainment where fans can test their Rugby League skills on a number of different challenges with prizes on offer for the fan who top the charts. On-pitch entertainment and crowd competitions will also run across the course of the day, helping to create excitement and atmosphere at the ground.

Tickets for the 2013 Kingstone Press Championships Finals Day cost from just £15 for adults, £10 for concessions and can be purchased by visiting www.rugbyleaguetickets.co.uk or by calling the RFL Ticket Office on 0844 856 1113.