A BLUE plaque in honour of a pioneering footballer was unveiled this week.
Thurlstone’s John Marsh was born in 1842 and was present in 1867 when the decision was made to form the Wednesday Football Club, now known as Sheffield Wednesday, a full 20 years before Barnsley FC was formed.
He became the club’s first secretary and captain and on Wednesday, the Owls’ current captain Liam Palmer visited the Crystal Palace pub - once owned by Marsh’s family - where the plaque was unveiled.
The plaque is the result of much hard work by local historians, Thurlstone and Penistone residents, the Sheffield Home of Football Charity and Penistone Town Council.
Liam said: “As a player it’s great that fans and historians keep your legacy alive.
“People show interest in the times that have gone by and it’s great to keep John’s memory alive by honouring him with something very special.
“When you’re a part of the club, you’re a part of people’s lives because of memories and moments.
“You become a fixture in people’s lives.
“I hope in 150 years people can still remember our names.
“I’m proud to be here to honour John and the passionate people who keep his memory alive.”
