He was 83.

Frank was the oldest the three Barrow brothers, with Tony and Billy also going on to sign professional at Saints.

Frank and Tony Barrow (Image: Saints Heritage Society)

Born and bred in the rugby league hot-bed of Thatto Heath, Frank was another from the St Austin’s school conveyor belt in the mid-1950s. And he never forgot them and would return to his roots in the 80s to become founder member of Thatto Heath ARLFC.

Frank Barrow (Image: Supplied)

Thatto Heath Crusaders today posted their tribute: “It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Frank Barrow.

“Frank was a founder member of Thatto Heath back in 1981 and a true Thatto Heather through and through.

“His commitment, character, and love for the club have left lasting memories for so many of us.

“Frank will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

“RIP Frank Barrow.”

At Saints he was a rock-solid last line of defence at full-back, making more than 250 appearances for the Knowsley Road club between 1961 and 1972, scoring 13 tries.

Among his highlights was the 21-2 win over Wigan in the Challenge Cup Final at Wembley in 1966. His brother Tony was non-playing sub that day.

On leaving Saints, Barrow joined Leigh where he collected the only medal that had eluded him at Saints – the BBC2 Floodlit Trophy one.

After hanging his boots up, Frank went on to coach at Oldham and Swinton, and assisted New Zealander Mike McClennan at Saints in the early 90s.

The pair struck up a strong bond and they came up with some often innovative ideas, including the John Harrison ‘head the ball’ try for George Mann.

He had an eye for a good player – and brought countless St Helens lads through, including plenty from his home patch of Nutgrove and Thatto Heath.

Frank Barrow gets stuck in in the Championship Final of 1966 (Image: Saints Heritage Society)

Among them was Steve Prescott – a different type of full back to himself – but a player that Frank had so much faith in that he persuaded the Saints board by offering to pay his contract out of his own money.

It was something Steve never forgot and wrote about Frank’s support in his autobiography.

We will have further tributes to Frank, a Thatto Heath, Saints and rugby league legend, later this week.

We offer our condolences to Frank’s family at this sad time.