Andy Tilsley went down in history by becoming the first Pickles manager. Known as "The Ferret" for his dogged and determined style in the heart of Cranston Pickle's midfield. Andrew Tilsley's reputation grew as he took on the mantle of player/manager pulling the strings on and off the pitch.

All of Andy Tilsley's teammates respected the man. Captain fantastic Andy Cranston said of the man: "He's an inspiration to us all. His goals are a delight to behold, and if he does not receive player of the millenia, well then I'm a dumb blond."

While The Ferret was at the helm at Cranston Pickle his star forward Steve Hall was very complementary of the great man: "He is fantastic in that midfield role. He always manages to find me, which is quite a talent seeing as I'm a short gibbon"

Andy Tilsley was known as one of the gentlemen of the game. During his year at Cranston Pickle he was never booked. An amazing statistic to behold in the modern game, a record which players like Jon Willcox can only dream of.

The picture (right) is the only known picture of Tilsley during his playing days. The picture was taken during the famous "pantsdown" incident which caused great embarrasement for Tilsley and the club. But Tilsley lived through the incidents and can now truly be called a CRANSTON PICKLE HERO.

A late developer to the game Gillott soon found himself suited to life at the back where his hoof it first, ask questions later, clearance policy earnt him many admirers amongst fellow players.

Hailing from the north, his father having Yorkshire roots, has given the player a more traditional style of play. Notorious in some circles for his uncompromising attitude and late tackles, Gillott was notably the only player to receive a booking in the annual CCS football tournament of '97 whilst playing for Jossie's giants.

As you can see from the picture (right). Gillott soon earned the reputation of being the hard man of the Pickles rearguard. His uncompromising style didn't win him any friends in the opposition, but his teammates always knew they could rely on him at the back.

Steve Gillott would be unlikely to survive in the game today due to his aggressive nature, he had this to say on the subject: "Nowadays any sort of tackle is outlawed, they've taken all the blood, guts and fun out of the game. Don't get me wrong, the current Pickles defence Sellers, Wood and Campbell are decent players, they just cant get stuck in these days."

The centre-back never broke any goal scoring records for the Pickles. In fact he never scored a goal while at the club. But what you can say about the man is that he is consistent. He appeared for the Pickles in a record 14 games in a row. A record which still stands today and is likely never to be broken.

Andrew Spens will go down in Pickle history for scoring the first ever league goal for Cranston Pickle against the Old Lopesites in October 1999. But surprisingly his goalscoring feats weren't the thing he was best known for.

A pacy winger, he has worried many a full-back with his wizardry. To quote team manager Andy Tilsley, "He always had so much to give for the cause. He was one of the real favourites with the often critical Cranston Pickle fans.". While Spens was with the Pickles there were rumours that Southampton wished to buy the player, but Pickles manager Tilsley refused to sell. When asked why he wouldn't sell Tilsley replied: "If you sell your quality players then what are you left with?"

Andy Spens always wore his number seven shirt with pride and can truly take his place amonst some of the best wingers ever: Best, Giggs, Ginola, Gain.. But unfortunately being English Spens was never able to play in a World Cup Finals.

He is fondly remembered by his teammates, Steve Gillott said of the legend: "He was a fantastic guy. As a defender you're always glad that he's on your side. I don't think I could ever have coped with his pace and trickery!"

But although all these reasons make Spens a true legend his finest hour came when he became manager of Cranston Pickle FC when his knees couldn't take it any more! Spens lead the Pickles to the finest victory ever, a 1-0 win over St. Lukes in the cup. A day that will be remembered by all.

Spens had many pre-match rituals including filling up a bath with vinegar and bathing in it. He believes it helps him to get closer to his Pickle feelings. Andy Spens was really a Pickle through and through. This is why he'll always be remembered as A CRANSTON PICKLE HERO.