Black and White army to welcome Cup’s return

HULL FC players are set for an emotional welcome today with thousands of fans expected to turn out to celebrate their Wembley triumph.

The team’s Black and White army has been invited to a homecoming party at Queens Gardens after their thrilling victory over Warrington Wolves in Saturday’s dramatic Challenge Cup final. A three-hour celebration event gets underway in Queens Gardens at 12.30pm, with the team arriving on stage at 2pm.

People also have the chance to cheer on the team as an open bus travels through the streets of west Hull. Fans are being urged not to go the KCOM Stadium, which is only being used as an assembly point for the team, and to get to Queens Gardens in good time.

Entertainment includes opera singer Sarah Rhodes and a singalong with former Hull FC player, Sammy Lloyd, performing his charity song Come On You ‘ull.

There will be interviews with the full first team squad, coach Lee Radford and chairman Adam Pearson – and the chance for the team to thank their fans for their support.

The leader of Hull Council, Coun Steve Brady, said: “Many congratulations to Hull FC for winning the Challenge Cup for a fourth time.

“The team are having an exceptional season and are going from strength-to-strength so this cup win is thoroughly deserved.”

Lord Mayor Sean Chaytor added: “The entire team richly deserved their success and we look forward to welcoming them.”