Former Great Britain winger Des Drummond has died aged 63

Former Warrington, Leigh, Workington and Great Britain winger Des Drummond has died at the age of 63.

Born in Jamaica, Drummond started his rugby league career in 1976 with Leigh. He actually went to a reserve game to watch his brother play, but Leigh were short of players, allowing Drummond to play. He made such an impact, they offered him a permanent deal.

Four years later, he made his first appearances for England and Great Britain. A year later, a try on the final day from Drummond helped Leigh to the Championship title, their first since 1907.

During his time at Leigh, he made 280 appearances, scoring 141 tries. He also helped Leigh to the Lancashire  Trophy in 1981 and finished top-try scorer in the league with 26 tries in 1982.

Drummond then left Leigh to move to Western Suburbs in Australia. However, after a year and only nine appearances, he moved back to the UK with Warrington.

Drummond’s return to the UK

He made 182 appearances for them, scoring 69 tries. Drummond also helped Warrington to the Regal Trophy in 1991. He then signed for Workington in 1992.

Drummond made 71 appearances for the Cumbrian side, scoring 32 tries. He also helped Workington win the 1994 Second Division Premiership with victory over London Crusaders.

Hen then had short spells at Chorley, Prescot and Barrow before retiring from the game in 1997.

Off the pitch

Away from the sport, Drummond appeared on the television show Superstars. He finished second on the show in 1983 to pole vaulter Brian Hooper. His performances got him a place on the International version of the show, where he finished third. Only Hooper and Irish trampoliner Gerry Loftus finished ahead of him.

After his career finished, he also helped out at Bolton Mets rugby league club and Bolton RUFC.

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