SAINTS supporters attending tonight's double header against Leeds have been reminded that both the Stadium Ticket Office and Superstore will close at 7.45pm, with queues managed from 7.30pm onwards to ensure closure is on time.

This is to ensure that the club staff can participate in a pre-match tribute to long-serving staff member Christine Hesketh, who sadly passed away last week.

Match entry will still be permitted via contactless payment at the turnstiles on the West and East Stands at the Totally Wicked Stadium up until kick-off.

Whilst the Stadium’s Ticket Collection Point which is next to the Ticket Office will remain open until kick-off.

A tribute will take place just before kick off.

The second of three generations of her family to work for the Club, Christine officially started as part of the club's staff with the Lottery department back in 1985.

Christine then worked in the Club Shop, followed by management of the Shop too alongside working with the Ticketing department, before becoming Ticketing Manager towards the end of the Knowsley Road era of the Club, working alongside her own daughter Kirsty, from 1995 onwards, and her mother Bet from 1999 too.

Christine was the welcoming face and voice to thousands of St Helens supporters over the years who have come to get their match tickets or merchandise.

Chairman of St Helens R.F.C. Eamonn McManus paid tribute to Christine saying: “Everyone associated with St Helens are deeply saddened at the passing of Christine.

“She was very much part of the fabric of the Saints and worked for us for an incredible club record of nearly 40 years, firstly in lottery and then in ticketing. Her mother Bet also washed the first team kit for many years.

“She always displayed genuine warmth to all and leaves an indelible memory both within the Club and to many in the town. She will be sorely missed by all.

“In particular, our heartfelt condolences go to her daughter Kirsty and son in law Mike Rush as well as to the rest of her family who were so close to her.”