BACK in 1968 a group of men including secretary Harry Williams, Derek Whitley, George Ireland and present secretary Bob Whitley decided it was time to have a football club in Halebank again.

In September,1968 the club started its inaugural season thanks to business man Ron Sutton, who funded the new club.

The club went from strength to strength winning Widnes Alliance Cup competitions and the league.

During the past 50 years, the club has also competed in Warrington and District, Central Cheshire and at present is in its highest rated position the Cheshire league.

The club has been very successful over the past 10 years, earning promotion regularly.

Phil Sheridan chairman of Halebank FC Widnes, said: "We also have a reserve side that plays in the Warrington and District league and is performing well with a runners up place in their league this season.

"With a recent ground refurbishment thanks in particular to Halton Borough Council, plus strong local support of the community and our sponsors, we are in a good place in our 50th year.

"We are celebrating our anniversary throughout 2018 and holding a big 50-year celebration function at the Select Stadium in Halton on Saturday, October 27."

Tickets are £10 and can be bought from any club member