The sign marking the re-naming of the approach road to Steel Park in honour of former Corby Town chairman Jimmy Kane was today unveiled by his daughter Carol Anne and Corby Borough Council leader Tom Beattie.

Kane, who was Corby's longest serving councillor, sadly passed away in 2007. The charismatic Scotsman was a former county council leader, founder of the internationally-recognised Pen Green Centre, steel union official, a worker director with the former British Steel Corporation, and was involved with Corby Council for 46 years.

Married to wife Cathy for 56 years, he was awarded the CBE in 2002. He was also made freeman of Corby prior to his death in recognition of his huge contribution to the town.

Among Cllr Kane's greatest achievements were setting up 37 nursery schools and the Pen Green Centre in Corby – which is now nationally renowned as a centre of excellence – during his first year of county council leader in 1981.

He was leader until 1985 and then again from 1993 until 1998, leader of the Labour group on the county council for 21 years, stepping down in 2000.

Jimmy was well-known for his role as chairman at Corby Town Football Club. He had worked tirelessly to keep the club going since he became a supporter in the 1950s.

The event was attended by local councillors, Jimmy’s family and representatives from the Corby Town Supporters’ Trust.

Robbie Dunion, of the Corby Town Supporters’ Trust said: “This is a fantastic way to remember a man who was extremely important for this town and for Corby Town Football Club.

“Jimmy worked tirelessly during his time at the club to ensure that it survived, and if it was not for his hard work and determination we would not have a club today. On behalf of the supporters of Corby Town I would like to say a huge thank you to a true Corby legend and his family.

“It is great that his name will live on, and that supporters of Corby Town young and old will always associate the name of Jimmy Kane with Corby Town FC.”