Castleford Tigers Foundation Secures National Lottery Heritage Funding

Castleford Tigers Foundation Secures National Lottery Heritage Funding to Celebrate the History of Castleford & District Amateur Rugby League

The Castleford Tigers Foundation is delighted to announce that it has secured funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to deliver an ambitious new project capturing the rich history of amateur Rugby League across Castleford and the Five Towns.

Following a successful application earlier this year for The Castleford and Five Towns District Amateur Rugby League project, the Foundation is also pleased to confirm the appointment of Peter Longbottom as Heritage Officer to lead the development and delivery of this important work.

Peter brings extensive experience within the sport, having served in administrative roles at East Leeds Rugby League Club for more than twenty years and leading the RFL’s logistics department for over 18 years. He also played a key role in establishing Masters Rugby League in 2008, which has since grown to over 100 clubs and 2,200 players. His passion for the game and its people makes him ideally placed to guide this heritage project.

Speaking about his appointment, Peter said:
“I am thrilled to take on this role. Over the coming months, I look forward to many fascinating conversations and producing podcasts that explore the stories of amateur Rugby League clubs, past and present, across the Five Towns. The project, with its online museum, will be a lasting example of the positive work the Tigers Foundation delivers in the community. Working alongside The National Lottery Heritage Fund - the largest dedicated funder of heritage in the UK since 1994 is truly inspiring and I cannot wait to share these memories and histories with everyone.”

Foundation Manager Amy Hardman added:
“We are delighted to welcome Pete on board. I am personally really passionate about heritage and can’t wait to see this project develop and share the fantastic story of the amateur game.”

As part of the project, Pete has relaunched the ‘Let’s Communicate’ session at Christ Church in Xscape, held every Monday morning from 10am–12pm, now with a dedicated heritage theme.
Last week’s session featured the Challenge Cup on display, a range of memorabilia, and a showing of the 1986 Challenge Cup tie. These sessions are open to all, offering a welcoming space to explore and celebrate the area’s Rugby League history.

Everyone is invited to come along and get involved.
For more information, please contact: petelongbottom@castigers.com