SAINTS in the Frame is an exhibition at the World of Glass made up of a series of framed images and memorabilia encapsulating the unique heritage of St Helens RFC in the 150th anniversary of their first-ever match, against Liverpool Royal Infirmary, in 1874.
Visitors are greeted by a colourful display of replica jerseys provided by long-time supporter Eileen Atherton with an enlarged representation of the match report from that famous first game at Boundary Road.
The main gallery contains framed images from the Saints Heritage Society’s archives grouped together in 7 sections, one of the highlights being ‘Entente Cordiale’ with two contrasting match posters from Saints’ clash with XIII Catalan in 1977.
There are ‘Favourite Players’ including current Women’s star Jodie Cunningham. Remember too when Paul Sculthorpe became the face of a prominent razor company during the 2004 Tri Nations?
We see the players celebrating success, together with a series of team photographs down the years. International representation features strongly with some memorable images of the Knowsley Road ground sure to catch the eye.
Finally, a nod to when the Saints vied with neighbours St Helens Recs for the unofficial ‘Championship of St Helens’ between the wars.
“The people at the World of Glass were delighted to host the exhibition,” said Alex Service from Saints Heritage Society “And they have produced what I think will be a relaxing and rewarding experience for visitors who want to immerse themselves in the history of our great club.
“One of my favourite images is the aerial shot of Knowsley Road and its environs from the early ‘nineties.
“It is quite staggering to see how much the area has changed. And the memorabilia? Great Britain caps from Alex Murphy and Alan Prescott steal the show, for sure.”
Saints in the Frame can be seen at the World of Glass on Chalon Way during normal opening hours until Saturday 26 October and is free.
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