Halton Borough Council is looking to mark the history of Runcorn FC by naming the road into the development after one of the clubs legends, Jack Search.
The Millbank Linnets Stadium in Murdishaw, home to Runcorn Linnets FC, opened its doors to a new era in the clubs history in 2010.
Since then improvements to the facilities and a new club house have been added as part of a wider development of the site.
In 2016 Planning Permission was granted for a retail and leisure development along with the demolition of the Halton Arms Public House. More recently it was confirmed that Aldi was set to occupy a large unit on the site alongside a family pub and retail units.
This commitment coupled with Runcorn’s successful 2017/18 campaign, which saw them promoted into the EVO-STIK League Division One West as champions), proves that the future is bright for the Trust run club which only reformed in 2006.
Jack Search was a towering and imposing centre forward for Runcorn FC in the 1930’s and a prolific goal scorer. He reputedly turned down a chance to play professionally for Arsenal during his time at Runcorn preferring instead to remain as an amateur with the town club.
In 1939 he took part in a now legendary game in the club’s history where Runcorn, in front of a 10,000 strong crowd, took on Preston North End, the current cup holders, in the FA Cup.
Playing for Preston that day was Bill Shankly. Unfortunately the Second World War interrupted Jack’s playing career at the height of his powers sending him off to serve as a Lieutenant in North Africa.
After the war he returned to Runcorn and resumed his role for the club.
Playing as an amateur Jack earned his wage as a salesman for the Liverpool United Gas Company, according to the Runcorn Linnets official web site biography.
However, once his playing career was over Jack became one of five Directors of Everton Football Club during Howards Kendall’s first and most productive managerial spell at the club.
During this time Jack oversaw both league and cup successes. His longtime friendship with Bill Shankly continued throughout their lives.
Halton Borough Council’s Executive Board Member for Sport, Cllr Phil Harris, said: “We thought we needed to mark this legend of the local game. The development is set to be opened later this year and hopefully Jack can bring the Linnets further success in the future.”