DESCENDANTS of an early Newtown Football Club star have shared a prized family heirloom.

Gordon Townsend got in touch with the County Times after reading about his grandfather, Alfred, who featured in a series of articles highlighting the region’s Victorian football stars.

Alfred played a key role for Newtown as the club won the 1895 Welsh Cup final in Welshpool.

After goalkeeper Robert Goodwin was sent off early in the game the Robins looked to Townsend who went in goal and made a string of saves as Newtown overcame Wrexham.

He was part of the Wales national football team between 1887 and 1893, playing two matches.

He played his first match on March 12, 1887 against Ireland and his last match on April 5 1893 against Ireland.

Alfred also has another place in history.

On October 29, 1892 Newtown travelled to Liverpool in the FA Cup and were one of the first ever visitors to the now famous Anfield ground.

Newtown crashed out of the cup, losing 9-0, with Alfred becoming the first ever player to score an own goal on the hallowed turf.

The modern day Townsend clan still celebrate Alfred’s achievements.

Gordon along with sons Gary and Ian and grandsons Archie, Henry, Seth and William are pictured right.