Former Chemics hooker Gordon Murray passes away, aged 81 (From Runcorn and Widnes World)

Former Chemics hooker Gordon Murray passes away, aged 81

10:27am Thursday 14th March 2013 in Sport

FORMER Widnes RLFC hooker Gordon Murray has ppassed away at the age of 81.

Locally born Gordon played for West Bank as well as captaining Lancashire Schoolboys before signing for Widnes in 1952. He went on to play for 8 seasons and made 50 appearances for his beloved Widnes between 1952 and 1960 playing with great names such as Frank Myler and Harry Owen.

Gordon was best known for his tremendous skills as a hooker and in particular his ability to win scrums.

Highlights in Gordon's rugby career included gaining a Lancashire Cup Runner-Up Medal in 1955 and surviving the 1959 game against a then formidable Australian team.

Throughout his life, Gordon remained a keen Widnes Vikings fan and instilled his passion in his two sons John and Phil, who are also keen followers.

One of his favourite games was the World Club Championship 1989 at Old Trafford which he attended with his sons and other members of his family where Widnes beat the Canberra Raiders.

A service for the late Gordon Murray will take place at 10.30am on Tuesday, 19 March at St John's Church at the corner of Greenway and Fairfield Road.