Sam Banner

Mr H.S. Banner was one of the original directors of the club in 1921, but resigned his position after five years. He rejoined the Board in 1931 and remained a director until 1953 when, at the age of 80, he was appointed a Life Member.

A popular and kindly character instantly recognisable by his straw boater he had a greater insight than most people into the club’s ups and downs; he would often dip into his own pocket to subsidise the weekly wage bill when cash was short. Vice-Chairman between 1939 and 1953, he also formed and chaired the Finance Committee and rendered yeoman service to the club.

A wine merchant by trade (his wife was also manageress of one of his branches), he was, like many of the Southport directors of his day, a member of the Town Council, representing Talbot Ward between 1935 and 1945.

He was also chairman of the Southport Corporation Transport Committee.