Arguably the most famous name in the history of British tennis, Fred Perry's status as the most recent British winner of a men's Grand Slam tournament became a long-held target for Tim Henman, Andy Murray and the rest of the modern generation.

Born in Stockport on May 18th 1909, Fred Perry won eight Grand Slam titles between 1933 and 1936, including the US Open and Wimbledon three times each. He was the first player to achieve a 'career slam' of all four 'majors'.

Before becoming one of the greats, Perry was the world table-tennis champion in 1929 and some of the skills he had garnered from that sport helped him – he was exceptionally fast around the court and kept the ball low over the net after taking it on the rise. His backhand was the only real weakness in his game.

Following his Grand Slam successes he turned professional and in 1937 and 1938 played lengthy tours across America with Ellsworth Vines.

After his retirement he was approached to launch his own clothing range, which has become world famous. His short-sleeved polo shirts with buttons down the front and a laurel logo have been fashion items since the 1960s.

A statue of Fred Perry's was erected in 1984, the 50th anniversary of his first Wimbledon win, inside the Church Road gate at the All England Club. His legacy also extends to the Fred Perry Way, a 14-mile walking route in the Stockport area from which he came.

Fred Perry died in Melbourne, Australia, in 1995 at the age of 85.