Hesketh

Hesketh is a surname of English origin and a toponym in north-west England. The name is most strongly associated with Lancashire, where places bearing the name Hesketh were established.

Geography: The civil parish of Hesketh with Becconsall in West Lancashire includes areas named Hesketh, and Hesketh Bank is a village in the district. The name persists in local geography as well as in family names.

Origin and distribution: As a locational surname, Hesketh indicated origin from the Hesketh area; over centuries bearers of the name spread to other parts of the United Kingdom and beyond. It remains relatively uncommon.

In culture and sports: Hesketh Racing was a British motor racing team founded by Lord Hesketh in the 1970s. The team competed in Formula One during the mid-1970s and is noted for its flamboyant sponsorship and for helping launch the career of James Hunt.

Notable persons: The surname has historical associations with Lancashire's gentry.