SPORTING greats with Oswestry links are being added to a Hall of Fame at one of the town’s cricket grounds in memory of a former Advertizer journalist and club chairman.

Oswestry Cricket Club has started work on the project, which is expected to take a year to complete, in memory of Mike Robinson.

The project has been set up following the launch of the Mike Robinson appeal in the summer of 2018.

Phase one of the project is the installation of the Oswestry Sport Forum hall of fame.

Oswestry Cricket Club President John Hulme said: "We hope to complete phases one and two within the next month.

"This will include a display of team photos from bygone days."

The hall of fame will be situated in the Mike Robinson Suite at the cricket club on Morda Road, featuring pictures and biographies of more than 30 sporting stars with Oswestry connections.

Golfer Ian Woosnam, footballer Alan Ball and lightweight boxer Charles Emrys Jones are among the illustrious names on the list of elite Oswestry sports-stars, selected by Oswestry Sports Forum.

The walls on the suite will also be home to historical pictures relating to the club, including team photos dating back to the 19th Century.

John said the project is very much a work in progress and that there is still a long way to go.

“The main pavilion will house cricketing memorabilia, a detailed history of the club written by lifelong member Alan Stratford and honours boards featuring over 80 Oswestry players who have played either first class cricket or minor counties cricket.

“We have records going back to the 1860s.

“There will be a special tribute to our late chairman “Robbo”.

“His contribution to the club in particular, and local sport in general was very considerable – he left a lasting legacy.

“It is estimated it will take a further 12 months to complete with an estimated additional cost of £5,000.

“People have already been very generous, but if there are others who would like to contribute then we would urge them to get in touch.

“Any donations however small will be gratefully received.”

Cheques should be made to Oswestry Cricket Club Ltd Ref. MRF.

For more information, or if you have any memorabilia you would like to donate to the club to be put on show, call 01691 653006.