Famous Salopians - Part Three

So far in our Famous Salopians series, we've looked at notable folk who were born, bred, educated or currently residing in the county of Shropshire. Next up, it's sporting heroes past and present.

Also see Part One: Celebrities and Part Two: Shrewsbury Scholars. Know of any more local sporting legends? Leave your comments below!

Scottish golfing legend Sandy Lyle was born in Shrewsbury, following his family's move from Scotland in the 1950s. Sandy's father, a resident professional at Hawkstone Park's famous course, taught his son the sport when Sandy was aged just three. He's since won the 1985 Open Championship and several other major competitions including the World Match Play Championship.nextpage

This picture shows Lt Col. Freyberg attempting to cross the English Channel in 1925, but fifty years earlier, the challenge was famously completed by Dawley-born sailor Matthew Webb. He became the first man in history to swim the Channel without artificial aids, but died tragically in a subsequent attempt to swim the fierce Niagara River. His memorial still stands in Dawley.nextpage

England Under 21's and Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart was born in Shrewsbury. He attended Oxon Primary and Meole Brace Schools until his final year of studies, when he became a substitute for home team Shrewsbury Town and later their 2005-2006 season goalkeeper. Hart moved to Manchester City in 2006 and has since spent time on loan to Tranmere and Blackpool.nextpage

Oswestry-born golfer Ian Woosnam, pictured here with cricketer Ian Botham, kicked off his golfing career at Llanymynech Golf Club near his family's home in St Martins. Woosnam turned pro in 1976 and went on to win the 1982 Swiss Open and the 1991 US Masters, spending almost a year at the top of the Official World Golf Rankings. He was awarded an OBE last year.nextpage

Another Oswestry-born sportsman is former England cricketer Andy Lloyd, who was famously struck on the head by West Indies fast bowler Malcolm Marshall, during his first Test in 1984. Sadly, he never played for England again, but spent four successful years as Club Captain for Warwickshire before his subsequent retirement.nextpage

Wolverhampton Wanderers legend Billy Wright (left, with Bobby Charlton in 1958), who also made over a hundred appearances for England during his long career at Wolves, was born in Ironbridge. At 14 he made his debut for the B team and since led both Wolves and England to countless victories. Wright went on to manage England's youth squad in 1960 before moving into television, and was married to Joy Beverley of the Beverley Sisters. He died in 1994 and his statue stands beside the Molineux Stadium.