FOR once readers have not yet managed to solve a mystery -- this time of a sporting hero.

Former Sportsman landlord Denis Stanton and his pal Vinny Kearns have spent a year trying to solve the riddle of a cap found in the loft at the Leigh pub 30 years ago, but have drawn a blank.

The maroon velvet cap, which is not in the best condition, was awarded in the 1901-2 season. It is size 67/8, bears a peach, red and green badge in the shape of a tudor rose and contains a shield outlined in gold with a fleur de lis embroidered in beige on green at the top and a beige lion on red at the bottom.

Inside there is a ribbon with the name G Heath. Does anyone recognise the name or can they tell us what game it was awarded for? Answers please...and the family could be reunited with a lost treasure.

E-mail lrichards@lancashire.newsquest.co.uk.