WARRINGTON Wolves skipper Chris Hill was among the guests as the All-Party Parliamentary Rugby League Group held its annual dinner in the Palace of Westminster this week.

The Wire and England prop joined St Helens and national team coaching assistant Paul Wellens in answering questions about the sport, as well as accepting a cheque on behalf of charity partner Rugby League Cares following a silent auction and raffle raising more than £3,000.

The dinner was hosted by the group’s president and ex-Warrington Wolves chairman, Lord Hoyle, on the House of Lords terrace, and brought together members of both Houses of Parliament, members, group supporters and sponsors.

A highlight of the evening was the group awards, with the 2016 Super League Player of the Year prize going to Hull FC hooker and Man of Steel winner Danny Houghton.

The group also announced four new honorary life members, including Martin Coyd OBE from Warrington who was instrumental in establishing rugby league in the Army and has played a leading role in the development of wheelchair rugby league.

Celebrating its 28th year, the Group is one of the most active in Parliament, and comprises 70 Members from both Houses and across all major parties.

Group chairman, Greg Mulholland MP, reflected on the activities over the past year and said: “The Parliamentary Rugby League Group continues to work hard to challenge the issues that the game faces.

“Members of the group are passionate about rugby league, from the elite level to grassroots, and are delighted to be able to support the game wherever they can.

“Members provide an active voice for the sport in Westminster and Whitehall, not just because we are fans of the game, but because we believe in the values that rugby league holds dearly.”