A SAINTS legend is set to re-launch one of the most famous names in the amateur game.

Ex-full back Frankie Barrow (seen right) was enjoying a quiet pint with fellow oval-ball buffs in Thatto Heath Labour Club when the memory-jerking idea was mooted to revive a team at the Vine Tavern.

The Challenge Cup exploits of the Thatto Heath side of the early post-war period is part of Rugby League folklore and, predictably, Barrow's brainwave met with a tidal wave of enthusiasm.

An action committee with impeccable13-a-side pedigree was formed including: Chairman Kevin Whittle, Bob Dagnall, Johnny Fishwick, Bill Sheffield, Brian Gregory, Chris Wilson, Norman Barrow, Denis Haggerty, Joe Hatton, Bill and Jeff Kelly.

And, Barrow was the obvious choice to be Vine's coach.

Secretary is television scriptwriter Andy Lynch of Emmerdale, Brookside and Hollioakes fame, while Vine's main sponsors are Kevin Grundy Haulage and Man-Trucks of Widnes.

The re-born team will play at Sherdley Park, where their first official training session will be held next Tuesday, June 16, from 6 to 8pm.

A comprehensive fund-raising campaign for kit includes an 'Evening with boxer Ernie Shavers' at Haydock No.1 Labour Club on Wednesday, July 16.

Said Frankie Barrow: "The re-appearance of Vine Tavern has really captured the imagination of Thatto Heath folk, and players have been recruited from far and wide, including the defunct Prescot Panthers.

"The new-look Vine Tavern will incorporate junior, teenage and open-age squads, committee meetings are held at Thatto Heath Labour Club on Mondays and Wednesdays, and more information is available on St. Helens 615117."

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