Proposal made to name a Plymouth road after footballer Jack Leslie
It has been suggested for the unnamed road that runs past Home Park Stadium
The road that leads to the home of Plymouth Argyle could soon be named Jack Leslie Way.
The pioneering former footballer was the only professional black player in England for much of his career as a Pilgrim between 1921 and 1934.
Now, to honour his memory, the Council Leader has proposed that the previously unnamed road that skirts the edge of Milehouse Park and Ride and runs fittingly past Home Park Stadium, will bear his name.
In time, it will also complement the fan-led project to erect a statue of Jack nearby, which will be unveiled later this year.
Councillor Nick Kelly, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: "I have submitted a formal proposal to name this road Jack Leslie Way to ensure that Jack is memorialised in Plymouth for so many years to come.
"This proposal is a far more appropriate tribute to Jack and his family than renaming Sir John Hawkins Square, an issue that, as I have made clear from the start, I am committed to resolving in a democratic manner.
"Jack achieved legendary status for his goal scoring exploits and it is right and proper that he is recognised at Home Park, the place where he enjoyed so much success and brought happiness to thousands of fans each week."
Jack’s granddaughters Lyn, Les and Gill, said: "We are delighted at the recognition our granddad is receiving at last and this would be a lovely addition alongside the statue at Home Park, which we are so excited about."
Andrew Parkinson, Chief Executive Officer of Plymouth Argyle FC, said: "The club is pleased to hear of Councillor Kelly’s proposal, and we lend our support to the road bearing the name of Jack Leslie.
"Jack was a true pioneer of English football. Alongside the future erection of a statue in his honour, naming a road after him will ensure his legacy among Argyle fans and the people of Plymouth in the years ahead."
Born to a Jamaican father in London, Jack Leslie joined Plymouth Argyle from non-league Barking Town in 1921.
After a fairly quiet first two seasons at Home Park, he soon found form as an old-fashioned inside-left and went on to score 137 goals in 400 appearances. He remains fourth on the Pilgrims' all-time goalscoring record.
It is believed that Leslie was set to become the first black player to represent England but was denied the opportunity when selectors were made aware that he was "a man of colour". It was therefore not until 1978 that the first black player appeared in an England shirt.
Following his retirement from playing, Leslie went to work for his hometown team, West Ham United.
Read more about the Jack Leslie Campaign here.