Former Warrington hero Kevin Tamati back for Rugby League World Cup

But despite being a fans’ favourite during his time playing for the club in the late 80s, the New Zealander has found supporters a bit ‘stand-offish’ while he has been staying at the Lord Rodney pub.

He added: “They tend to look at me as though they’re not sure it’s me and stare at me from a far.

“It was quite disappointing so I went over to talk to them in the end!

“It’s been great to be back in Warrington but it’s a shame to see the market is no longer the hub of Warrington central.”

The Kiwi, who left the town in 2003, is now chairman of rugby league team Hawkes Bay on the north island of New Zealand, has been working with youngsters in the country over alcohol and drug problems and running a youth sports academy.

The former prop has been back in Warrington to get the support of players for a bullying campaign in his home country.

He added: “A lot of our youths are being bullied in the playground and by cyber bullies and as a result over the last 16 months a number have taken their own lives.

“It’s been great to get players like Sonny Bill Williams behind what you’re doing and one of the players said he was bullied at school and still remembers the guy and now he’s coming to look for him.

“The psychology of what I’m doing now is similar to when I was playing as it’s still all about strategy but now I’m putting back into the game what I got out of it.”

Despite playing rugby professionally for around 20 years, the 80s legend says he does not miss the game now.

He added: “I feel like I’ve been there and done that and really can’t be anything but grateful for where I am now.

“I have pretty much done everything and enjoyed every possible moment of playing, coaching, managing and supporting.”

Even though the former Widnes player travels home on Friday, he will still be keenly supporting the Kiwis and is predicting an Australia v New Zealand final with the Kiwis running out 60-0 winners.