Wolves football hero Norman Deeley is to be honoured later this month when a Wednesbury playing field is named in his honour.
See also: Wolves legend’s hero send-off
Deeley on 1960 Cup final
The popular spot in Bilston Road will be renamed the Norman Deeley Playing Fields, in memory of the Wednesbury-born star who died in September last year, by Sandwell’s Mayor Councillor Bob Price at a special dedication service which will be held on July 12 at 10am.
Norman’s family and some of his former teammates will also be attending.
Ex-players include Barry Stobart , Bobby Mason and Ted Farmer, with daughter Jayne Cooper, his brother Walter and sister Marge.
Members of the Bilston Road Tenants and Residents Association will also be helping out at the ceremony.
Youngsters from the local area will be invited to take part in a range of football-based activities, starting at 9am until 10am then continuing after the ceremony, finishing at 11.30am.
Councillor Simon Hackett, chair of the Wednesbury Town Committee, said: “Norman was a legend and will always be remembered by soccer fans not only in the Midlands but all over the country.
“Re-naming the playing fields after Norman will be a fitting tribute to him so that his name will always be remembered.”
The winger was born in Wednesbury and lived in The Close, off Bilston Road. Norman became the smallest ever schoolboy international to play for England in 1947.
He was only 5ft 4ins when he played for Wolves as a winger during the golden era of the 1950s when Wolves were crowned top-flight champions three times.
He made 237 appearances, scoring 75 goals in 11 years and collecting England caps along the way.
Cabinet member for culture and leisure Councillor Linda Horton said: “Norman had just bags of talent despite his lack of height.
“As a local lad this is a marvellous way to pay tribute to his services to football.” Anyone wanting further details about the ceremony is asked to contact Carole Calloway by calling 0121 5693440.
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