The Nantwich & District Branch of the Royal British Legion is inviting members of the community to a special evening with former England international footballer and ex-serviceman Frank Blunstone on Wednesday 10 June.

The event will take place at Willaston Social Club on 7 Wistaston Road, starting at 7.30pm. Admission is free, with donations welcomed after the event in support of the Royal British Legion.

Frank Blunstone, President of Nantwich Town Football Club and one of Cheshire's most respected sporting figures, will share memories from an extraordinary life that has encompassed top-level football, military service, coaching, management and community involvement.

Born in Crewe in 1934, Frank is recognised as the earliest surviving England senior international footballer.

During his playing career, he earned five England caps between 1954 and 1956, making his debut alongside some of the game's greatest names, including Sir Stanley Matthews, Billy Wright and Duncan Edwards.

After emerging through the ranks at Crewe Alexandra, Frank joined Chelsea in 1953 for £7,500 and went on to make 347 appearances for the club, scoring 54 goals.

Born in Crewe in 1934, Frank Blunstone came through the ranks at The Alex, before joining Chelsea for £7,500 in 1953 (Photo: Supplied).

He was a member of Chelsea's 1954-55 First Division title-winning side and played alongside football legends such as Jimmy Greaves, Terry Venables and Bobby Tambling.

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Frank's international career included appearances in England's famous 7-2 victory over Scotland in 1955, while he also had the distinction of playing in the first-ever schoolboy international held at Wembley Stadium.

Forced to retire through injury at the age of 29, Frank moved into coaching and management.

He managed Brentford, guiding the club to promotion and an FA Cup fifth-round run, before joining Manchester United's coaching staff.

He later became assistant manager during the club's successful 1976-77 FA Cup-winning season, helping United defeat Liverpool 2-1 at Wembley.

Away from football, Frank has enjoyed a varied career in business, including running a sweet shop, a Chelsea merchandise store and a public house.

Since 2011, he has served as President of Nantwich Town Football Club and remains a familiar face at home matches.

During the evening, guests will have the opportunity to hear first-hand stories from a life that has crossed paths with some of football's most famous figures while also reflecting on the values of service, dedication and community.

A spokesperson for the Nantwich & District Branch of the Royal British Legion said: "We are delighted to welcome Frank Blunstone to speak at this special event.

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"Frank has enjoyed an outstanding career in football and has a wealth of stories and experiences to share.

"His military background also gives him a unique perspective on the values of service and remembrance that are at the heart of the Royal British Legion.

"We look forward to welcoming members of the community for what promises to be a fascinating and enjoyable evening."

The Nantwich & District Branch of the Royal British Legion plays an active role in supporting veterans and promoting awareness of the charity's work across the local area.

The branch meets at Willaston Social Club on the second Wednesday of every month from 7.30pm to 8.30pm and welcomes veterans, serving personnel, supporters and anyone interested in the work of the Royal British Legion.