A FORMER Winsford pupil is trying to trace members of his school football team which he says was the best in the town.

John Brown, 65, played for High Street Secondary School in the early 1950s and is appealing for help in finding team mates who won the Mid Cheshire Schools Championship.

He said: "We were a really good team and quite a few of the players went on to play at a high level with Mid Cheshire Boys and then Cheshire Boys.

"We won the final at Barton Stadium and it was a great day for us. I think we were by far the best team in the town and had some outstanding individuals and it would be nice to meet up with them."

High Street Secondary School has produced a number of top class footballers including Manchester City legends Alan Oakes and Glyn Pardoe.

John, who now lives in Goostrey, said: "Winsford wasn't a big place back then but we produced some fantastic footballers which is a great testament to the town.

"There was another lad called Frank Blunstone who went on to play for Crewe Alexandra and then Chelsea.

"Back then all we ever used to do was play football so it isn't surprising that so many great footballers came through.

"Teachers at the school were brilliant as well and I particularly remember Mr Wilkman would spend a lot of time coaching us after school."

Gary Steele, who was part of the same cup winning team as John, said: "I remember the final at Barton Stadium very well.

"We won it 1-0. Pete Hardman scored the winner and it was a great day. We did have an exceptionally good team but our school had a number of good players at that time. Alan Oakes and Glyn Pardoe were a bit younger than me but I saw them play. Alan always stood out because he was a big lad but there were others who showed just as much potential at that age."

When John and Gary were at school they followed Winsford United and it was every schoolboy's dream to pull on the blue and white jersey.

John said: "We couldn't afford to go and watch the big clubs back then so we all supported Winsford United. Everyone wanted to play for them and it was something you aspired to. Luckily I got that opportunity and it was a great honour."

l Do you recognise anyone on this school photograph or do you have any similar pictures that you would like to share with readers?

If so, ring Philip Hennessey on 01606 813623 or email him at phennessey@guardiangrp.co.uk