A major search is under way in West Yorkshire for Brandon Moore, a professional rugby league player with Batley Bulldogs, who has not been seen since Friday, 30 May. The 28-year-old, originally from Cumbria, lives in Castleford with his wife, Mara, and their three young children—including a baby just seven weeks old.
Mara Moore launched a heartfelt appeal on social media earlier today, urgently requesting help to locate her husband. Her post has rapidly gained traction, being shared more than 2,400 times and attracting dozens of messages from concerned members of the public. The family has confirmed that local police have been alerted and are actively involved in the investigation.
The emotional nature of Mara’s message has touched many. She wrote: “If anyone has seen Brandon Moore can you please message me? I usually wouldn’t ever post anything on here like this, but family and friends haven’t seen or heard from him. I have a 7-week-old baby at home and 2 others so I can’t go hunting myself other than a car ride. Police contacted. Been missing approx 14 hours now. Thank you.” Online, comments have poured in showing support and sharing possible leads, although none have yet led to Brandon’s discovery.
The rugby star’s disappearance has also had an immediate impact on his professional life. Moore was listed as part of the Batley Bulldogs squad ahead of their scheduled clash against Toulouse Olympique on Saturday but was absent from the match. The Bulldogs went on to lose the fixture 30-14. Supporters and teammates alike have expressed concern and have joined efforts to circulate Mara’s plea on social media.
Brandon Moore is well known in the rugby league community, having spent eight years with Halifax Panthers before joining the Batley Bulldogs. He captained Halifax to a dramatic victory in the 1895 Cup final earlier this year, a career highlight that underlined his key role both on and off the field. Moore has previously spoken about his deep ties with Halifax, stating in an interview with Yorkshire Live: “Along the years I’ve met some top blokes who’ve made my time at the club and I’ve made some special bonds that are life long. Even though I’m not a Halifax lad, I always knew how much rugby league meant to the town and it was always an honour to captain the side.”
The news has rippled across the UK rugby league community, prompting an outpouring of support from fans and players who admire Moore’s leadership and commitment. Many have conveyed sympathy for his family’s distress and are hopeful that he will be found safe and well.
Police have not yet released specific details about the circumstances surrounding Moore’s disappearance or potential leads, but continue to encourage anyone with information to come forward. Community groups in Castleford and Cumbria have coordinated to help raise awareness and are keeping in close contact with the family.
The sudden and unexplained absence of a prominent athlete has brought renewed attention to the struggles families face when a loved one goes missing, especially amid the added pressures of young children and personal responsibilities.
As the search expands, Mara’s hope remains that someone will provide information that leads to her husband’s safe return. The public is urged to report any sightings or details to West Yorkshire Police immediately. Updates on the progress of the search are expected over the coming days, as friends, family and the broader rugby league community rally together, united in their efforts to bring Brandon Moore home.