EIGHT players have been inducted into Latchford Albion’s Hall of Fame as a result of their service to the club on and off the field.
Over Christmas, the Victoria Park club held their player reunion, which returned after Covid put paid to it in 2020, to give former players the chance to meet up and reminisce about their time at the club.
Among the inductees were players who starred in the finest moments of Latchford’s history as well as those who have gone on to contribute to coaching and the running of the club.
Paul Kelly – a gifted stand-off who played for Albion before joining the coaching ranks to help players through the club’s youth system – is inducted as was Billy Foden, a founding member of the team who played in their famous Challenge Cup run to face a Wigan side featuring the great Billy Boston in 1953-54.
Billy Foden's award is received on his behalf by his daughter Debbie
Another founder member, Geoff Kingham, joins former teammate Foden in the Hall of Fame. A lighting-fast full-back, Kingham holds the honour of having scored Albion’s first ever league try all the way back in September 1945 before going on to captain Lancashire.
Tony Gandy is rewarded for his loyal service to the club both on and off the field having progressed from player to secretary to chairman. He remains a regular on matchdays to support the current crop of players.
Tony Gandy receives his Latchford Albion Hall of Fame award from chairman Mike Byron
Two players who featured in highly successful Latchford sides of the 1970s and 1980s have also had their contributions honoured.
Alan Shingler played in the second row during the National Cup final appearance in 1972 and went on to coach both the first and second teams while Ste Doherty, also a second rower, served the club loyally for more than a decade and gained many personal accolades.
Alan Shingler receives his award from current Latchford Albion head coach Martyn Ellis
Half-back Kenny Green is inducted after he signed professional terms with Leigh while with the club before returning to Latchford upon retirement to take up the role of head coach.
The final inductee was John Heritage, who played for the club before serving in various off-field roles including chairman before pioneering masters rugby league, representing the Great Britain masters team on numerous occasions.
John Heritage with his award
On the field, Latchford are holding an open training session on Saturday, January 8, at Victoria Park at 2.30pm.
Any players wishing to attend should contact the club via their official Facebook page for further details.
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