GATES in memory of the two brothers who set up a football club on a growing Chester suburb have been officially opened.

In 1964 Mr Evans, known to many as Lenny, and his brother Bob founded Blacon Youth FC and entered the team into the Chester and District League. The original club was sited at the old Army camp on what is now Adelaide Road.

Len had the idea to start a team because his son and his pals wanted to play football.

Now, as we enter 2019, there are 17 teams at Blacon, including senior and women's teams.

Len and Bob now join the likes of Bill Shankly of Liverpool to have gates named in their honour at a football club that still appreciates their efforts and dedication.

Chester and District Standard:

Len Evans with his Joe Rose Lifetime Achievement Award in 2015

Len Evans, of Auckland Road, Blacon, died in October, 2017. Two years earlier he was awarded the Joe Rose Lifetime Achievement Award at the Blacon Community Awards in 2015, presented by ex-Blacon councillor Reggie Jones to a standing ovation.

Then, Cllr Jones said: “He is a man who never seeks to be given accolades for his significant contribution he has made to the sporting life of Blacon and decades of Blacon youngsters, both boys and girls.

“He didn’t just start a football team – he started a dynasty.”

Chester and District Standard:

Mike Meehan with Terry Carroll, of Cheshire FA

Mike Meehan said the club worked with the council, Blacon's Cllr Carol Gahan and former councillor Reggie Jones, to make the dream of the memorial gates a reality.

The opening of the gates was attended by Len and Bob's family.