St Helens are to recognise the achievements of the late Steve Prescott by naming a footbridge after him.

The walkway linking the Langtree Park Stadium to the town centre is to be named the Steve Prescott Bridge in honour of the club’s former player, who lost his long battle with cancer in November at the age of 39.

St Helens Council leader Barrie Grunewald said: “Steve was a first-class ambassador not only for rugby but for the town.State of Mind 188

“As well as being a legend of the game, he is also honoured for his tireless fundraising for his Steve Prescott Foundation.”

Prescott, who also played for Hull FC and Wakefield Trinity Wildcats as well as England and Ireland, was diagnosed with pseudomyxoma peritonei in 2006. He was was given only months to live but battled the disease and in 2009 was awarded an MBE after raising thousands of pounds for charity.

Saints chief executive Mike Rush said: “It is only fitting that one of St Helens’ greatest sons has such an honour bestowed on him and we are delighted that St Helens Council has taken this decision.”