THE Saints Way bridge, which links the town centre to Langtree Park, is to be renamed after Steve Prescott in honour of the St Helens hero.

The tribute follows the death of Steve at the age of 39 last November, which led to an outpouring of grief.

Over seven years he fought a colossal battle with the rare abdominal cancer pseudomyxoma peritonei and inspired thousands with his momentous fundraising exploits.

Renaming the crossing the Steve Prescott Bridge, follows calls from the public to mark the ex-Saints full back’s contribution to life in his hometown and rugby league.

St Helens Council, Saints and the Steve Prescott Foundation took the decision after holding talks. Mike Denning, chairman of the Steve Prescott Foundation, added: “This is very fitting for a real life hero and sporting icon born here in our town.

“Steve has inspired so many and has raised awareness of not only the very rare form of cancer which he battled but also the plight of those injured or fallen on hard times in the great game of rugby league. "

Mike Rush, Saints chief executive, who brought Steve back to the club to assist the coaching of Saints youngsters, said “it is only fitting that one of St Helens' greatest sons has such an honour bestowed on him”.

He added: “We are delighted that St Helens Council has taken this decision.

"Steve will be missed by us all and the club will also make sure he has a fitting legacy at Langtree Park. We will start that process when Saints take on Hull FC in February."

An official opening of the newly named bridge will take place at a later date.

St Helens Council leader Barrie Grunewald, who announced the honour on Wednesday, said: “Steve was a first class ambassador not only for rugby but for the town.

“As well as being a legend of the game he is also honoured for his tireless fundraising for his Steve Prescott Foundation.

“By naming the bridge after him is our tribute to one of the greats of St Helens and a most well deserved honour, all the more so that the bridge links the town Steve loved so much to his beloved club.”