THE rugby league community is rallying once again to help a former player who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.

Back in 2022, Steve Pryce, 54, was diagnosed with early-stage dementia and then received an Alzheimer’s diagnosis last year.

Steve is very well-known within rugby league circles, having started at West Bowling before playing professionally for York and Hunslet – he was inducted into the Hunslet Hall of Fame in September 2018.

He has also coached the Jamaican rugby league team.

His friend of nearly four decades, Chris Minchella, has spearheaded several fundraising efforts, the latest of which will run this weekend.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Steve and Chris Steve and Chris

Hunslet RLFC said: “As most supporters know the ever-popular Steve Pryce has sadly been diagnosed with the awful disease of Alzheimer’s.

“Never one to take a backward step on the field Prycie is facing up to the challenge full on with the help of lifelong friend Chris Minchella.”

The 16-mile charity walk will take place this Saturday (January 27) and will begin in Saltaire and end in Skipton.

It’s all to raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Society and rally around Steve. 

“We are wanting as many as possible to do the walk with us, and raise as much money as we can,” the fundraising page says. 

You can see the JustGiving page by clicking here - at the time of writing, more than £2,200 has already been raised. 

Chris said: “Things are starting to change with him. Steve has lived with me for two-and-half years so I see the changes that are happening.

“It’s hard watching him struggle at times and change. We’ve been the best of friends for 35 years so it’s difficult.”

In the true spirit of such a long friendship, Chris has rallied well-wishers once again to help.

"I was hoping for 50 people, but it's more than doubled. People have thought 'let's do this for him and have a day with him'."

Chris is hoping to see lots of smiles on the day as people come together in support of Steve.

Many comments of support have been left on the JustGiving page. 

One says: "One of the nicest blokes to play RL true Hunslet legend."

Another says: "Good luck guys. I’m sure you’ll smash it. Some of the best times at Hunslet watching you with chants of Steevoo, Steevoo ringing around the place. Wishing you all the best."

And one touching comment added: "You were so charismatic on the field. Truly a legend."