THE Saddleworth Rangers ground is to be named after a former club chairman.

The Oldham Rugby League club will be named after the late Shane Wilson, in a tribute to honour his memory after he passed away in December last year.

New signs will be erected outside of the club in Shaw Hall Bank Road to welcome visitors to the ‘Jocky Wilson Stadium’.

Shane’s wife Karen, who is one of the club’s Welfare Officers, said that is an honour to have the club re-named after Shane.

Karen said: “As a family we are honoured that the ground is to be named in Shane’s memory.

"Shane’s ashes will be laid to rest at the club so it’s a fitting tribute and a lasting legacy for the club he loved so much.”

The Saddleworth Rangers committee agreed to the tribute, alongside a plan to commission a special kit for the 2022 season.

Treasurer, Karen Thompson, said that members are looking forward to the new name.

Karen said: “It was felt that we should have a permanent reminder for all who visit us of our beloved Chairman so it seemed fitting to name the ground after him. The ‘Jocky Wilson Stadium’ will now be the home of Saddleworth Rangers.”

Shane had just turned 50 when he died on New Year’s Eve after a long battle with cancer. A party to celebrate his life is being planned for later in the year.

Before his death fans players and former team mates rallied round to fundraise for the former chairman.

Before his death Shane's friends took part in a sponsored bike ride from the club to Huddersfield and back in support of his treatment and his family.

Shane was also a club trustee as well as a coach of the U15s team.

Within the Oldham Rugby League club's ground, a stand will continue to be the Grimwood Family Stand.

It is named to honour the memory of former club president, Chris Grimwood, and his son Phillip, who passed away when he was a teenager.