I think you'll find in 1980 as well in the all hull cc final

That year was the Queen Mother.

Absolutely, with the whole Super League changeover and Grand Finals and Playoffs we can lose sight of the history and heritage of the sport sometimes. The Challenge Cup gives us a chance to recognise that history and heritage on a big stage and things like Abide with Me are part of that heritage in my opinion.

I like the Grand Final where the singing is done before the players come out and immediately get on with dismantling Saints (no sarcastic comments about this season please ), but the Challenge Cup represents something different, not necessarily better (thats a different argument) but different.

The Challenge Cup, its history, traditions and heritage should be preserved for as long as possible in my view. Which it makes it all the more annoying when there are c0ck-ups like with the mic.

I haven't read through the whole thread, but for those who had the misfortune of listening to Ray French attempting to sing it, you have my pity

Just a thought - why would someone standing on a microphone lead cause it to stop working - its not like a hosepipe is it ?

Glad I'm not alone in that thought - unless it was a particularly cheap piece of wiring

Same difference lol

I have several issues with the way Abide with Me has been treated, none of which have to do with the lady that sang (who was an excellent singer)

Firstly, I think A W M should be sang with the players lined up on the park AFTER the National Anthem

Secondly it should be sang by a man, to get the required deeper tones across. Actually it need not be an expensive classical singer. In fact I think Steve Prescott wouldd have been a great choice (if he can sing in tune)

Thirdly - Some fecker needs to check the acoustics!