St.Helens R.F.C. is deeply saddened to announce the passing of our longest, full-time serving member of staff, Christine Hesketh, who worked for the Saints for over 39 years.
A second of three generations of her family to work for the Club, Christine officially started as part of our staff with the Lottery department back in 1985.
Christine then worked in the Club Shop, followed by management of the Shop too alongside working with our Ticketing department, before becoming Ticketing Manager as we approached the end of the Knowsley Road era of the Club, working alongside her own daughter Kirsty, from 1995 onwards, and her mother Bet from 1999 too.
A beloved member of our community, Christine will have been the welcoming face and voice to thousands of St.Helens supporters over the years who have come to get their match tickets or merchandise.
Adored by all staff at the Club, hundreds of our players over the years, and an unfathomable number of Saints supporters who she has assisted across many roles, Christine will be greatly missed and her impact and loyalty will always be remembered.
Chairman of St.Helens R.F.C. Eamonn McManus paid tribute to Christine saying: “Everyone associated with St Helens are deeply saddened at the passing of Christine.
“She was very much part of the fabric of the Saints and worked for us for an incredible club record of nearly 40 years, firstly in lottery and then in ticketing. Her mother Bet also washed the first team kit for many years.
“She always displayed genuine warmth to all and leaves an indelible memory both within the Club and to many in the town. She will be sorely missed by all.
“In particular, our heartfelt condolences go to her daughter Kirsty and son in law Mike Rush as well as to the rest of her family who were so close to her.”
Everyone at the Club would like to send our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to all of Christine’s family and friends at this very sad time.
A tribute to Christine will be made ahead of St.Helens’ Super League match against Leeds Rhinos on Friday, 24th May.