ROGER Pickering stands as one of rugby’s most celebrated figures from Bradford.

Indeed, he came perilously close to playing the sport in both formats.

While his connection to Bradford is strong, his origins actually lie in Birmingham.

He relocated to West Yorkshire during his childhood years and received his education at Whitcliffe Mount Grammar.

The Cleckheaton institution already possessed significant rugby union heritage, being the place where the legendary England and British & Irish Lions centre from the 1950s, Jeff Butterfield, developed his skills.

Pickering’s tenure with England proved far shorter than Butterfield’s.

He earned just a handful of appearances in the Five Nations tournament, with his sixth and final international appearance coming in a closely contested 8-6 victory over Scotland at Murrayfield in 1968.

However, at club level with Bradford RFC, Pickering proved absolutely instrumental.

After securing their third Yorkshire Cup final in 1925, the club endured an agonizing 41-year period without success, before claiming the trophy three times within five years spanning 1966 to 1970.

Pickering played a pivotal role during those successful seasons, particularly in the final that occurred 56 years ago this evening, delivering an outstanding performance as Bradford defeated Huddersfield 19-6 at Scatcherd Lane in Morley.

Pickering was at the peak of his abilities, and as T&A journalist Brian Smith reported to readers, he had attracted attention from rugby league clubs.

Bradford Northern chairman Harry Womersley believed the 26-year-old would thrive at Odsal, having been impressed by his strategic thinking, defensive capabilities and sheer speed.

However, negotiations collapsed immediately, as Pickering maintained he had no desire to turn professional and transition to rugby league.

Union remained Pickering’s true passion, and following his playing career, he assumed the role of the first-ever Five Nations chief executive, while also serving as a tournament director for the Heineken Cup.