BBC North East Investigation
BBCA relative of a former England Rugby Union International, known as the “Prince of Half-Back”, has attended a function to mark the restoration of his grave.
Ernest William Taylor – Known as Little Billy – performed 14 for England and captained his country seven times between 1894 and 1899.
Taylor’s Grand-Better Marine Ross, after contacting Whitley Bay RockClife RFC, his former club arranged for a redistribution ceremony at his restored rest place.
He said that the club had treated him “like family” and was so happy that his late grandfather’s grave – who died in 1936 at the age of 67 – now “looks beautiful”.
Former England international grandson Chris Taylor said: “It is very unique for a grandfather who played for England and I am very proud.
“I certainly did not inherit their sports ability, but we all are very proud of them.”
He said that the ceremony meant a lot for the whole family.
In addition to being out for England, Taylor captained the Rockclifte RFC for five sessions and regularly led by County between 1889 and 1903.
Richard Bloomfield of RFC RFC said that “Little Billy” played for him after the formation of the club in 1887.
“This grave is a suitable tribute to a local rugby legend,” he said.
