A PLAQUE will be laid on a housing estate where Saints' former Knowsley Road once stood after St Helens was chosen as one of the special national sites to commemorate key events in the 120 year history of rugby league.

A series of blue plaques have been unveiled during the autumn as part of the RFL’s celebration of 120 years since the founding of rugby league in 1895. The St Helens plaque is the final one to be unveiled.

Nigel Wood, RFL chief executive, said: “St Helens has played a significant role in the history and development of rugby league. It is fitting that this contribution should be recognised with a commemorative blue plaque in this special year for our sport.

“As we celebrate our heritage we acknowledge the special role St Helens has played in the history of rugby league.”

The plaque unveiling takes place on Thursday November 12 at Taylor Wimpey’s Cunningham Grange residential development, St Helens at 3.30pm and will be unveiled by Nigel Wood on behalf of the RFL, with other representatives from the club and community in attendance. Fans are welcome to attend.

Saints chairman Eamonn McManus said: “Knowsley Road will always be an integral part of our and the sport’s history. It will never be forgotten. When we moved to Langtree Park we wanted to take the spirit and heritage of our ground with us.

“We have done that in several ways at our new home and this plaque will ensure Knowsley Road is truly remembered.”

On August 29 1895 at an historic meeting at the George Hotel in Huddersfield, 22 clubs broke away from the RFU to form the Northern Union which became Rugby League.