THE Rugby League Heritage room at York’s new Community Stadium will be named after the late Jim Bone.

York City Knights chairman Jon Flatman revealed the news in a speech at Mr Bone’s funeral at York Crematorium.

Flatman told the packed congregation that Mr Bone’s legacy would live on at the new ground, in honour of his work and support for all levels of rugby league in the Minster city.

He said of the Jim Bone Memorial Room: “It’s a fitting tribute to someone who has impacted so positively on the lives of many people and especially on rugby league in the region, in both the professional and community game.

“Given his commitment to and support for the sport, this is a way for his legacy to continue for many years to come.”

As reported by The Press, Mr Bone died earlier this month, a few days before his 82nd birthday.

A former York club physio, he was a sponsor, supporter and backer of not only the pro team but also York’s women’s team, amateur clubs and junior sides since moving to the city in the 1970s. He was inducted into the York RL Legends roster in 2015.

York Hall of Famer and ex-Hull star Kevin Harkin, a close friend of Mr Bone ever since signing for York in 1975, also spoke at the service, describing him as “Mr York Rugby League”, while further tributes were read out around the room.

The Heritage Room at the new stadium, initially earmarked as an office, will be used as a classroom and memorabilia space by the Knights. Mr Bone's widow, Pat, said her husband had known before he died that it was to be named in his honour.

She said: "He was so so happy when he was told and quite emotional.

"He had wanted to make the first speech or give the first lecture to the children, which of course isn't to be, but it does mean his legacy will live on."

Mrs Bone wanted to thank the undertakers Rowley & Sons, the vicar and friend of Mr Bone, Rev Mary Staddon, the Knights, those who spoke at the funeral, and "everybody who attended", plus the paramedics and A&E staff who had cared for Mr Bone.

She said: "People have been so kind, helpful and supportive. So many people cared about Jim and it showed."

She added, jokingly: "Despite what was said, Kevin 'Mr Generosity' Harkin does have a wallet... it has zips and locks and chains, but it is still a wallet."