Embedded Files
· These lists have been compiled in the same format as the Best Years Players lists and the notes on the Best Years Introduction Page should be referred to (see Players Lists for the Best Years 1950-67).
· In addition to the sources used for those lists, for this period I have also made use of Michael Joyce’s Football League Players’ Records 1888 to 1939 (Soccerdata, 1994), and Jack Rollin’s Soccer at War 1939-45 (Headline, second edition 2005), which has appearance and goal-scoring statistics for matches in the Football League and FA wartime competitions.
· Details of players who appeared in this period but also appeared in the “Best Years” will be found on the latter pages, where the appearance and scoring statistics include those for this period.
· However it should be noted that because several line-ups are incomplete for this period, some of the appearance statistics may be understated by a few matches, especially for those who played in 1945/6 where nine line-ups are incomplete. Appearances for those who only played in 1947/8 or 1949/50, however, should be complete.
· The scoring statistics are very nearly complete-just one goal (scored in 1946/7) is unattributed.
· In general, information about players in this period is much less detailed than for those who played in the “Best Years”, and in 1945/6 especially there are some about whom virtually nothing can be discovered; the local press often reported only the initials of a player’s first name(s) and sometimes not even that.
· There are also doubts about the precise identities of a few players of this period, which are addressed in the “Notes” entries.
· In the 2021 update I have tried to add, in the Notes space, a little more detail to the bare listing of other clubs that a player played for by adding dates of joining or leaving those clubs where this is known. For players who appeared for the first team in the Football League or Scottish League, these dates can be followed in Barry Hugman's site for the Football League (http://barryhugmansfootballers.com/), or Neil Brown's (http://www.neilbrown.newcastlefans.com/) for the Scottish League. As regards non-league clubs, in most cases this information comes from reports in the British Newspaper Archive's online library (BNA). Sometimes it's not possible to say exactly when a player moved clubs but only to find evidence of his appearing for a club at a particular time. In these cases the note will say, eg, "by 12/51", meaning that the first report I can find of his playing for a club is dated December 1951, but he may actually have joined them earlier. Similarly the note may say "still there 12/51" meaning that this is the latest report I can find that names that player at that club, but he may have stayed longer. Inevitably this is a hit-and-miss process because not all moves were reported, and there are still many areas of the country, and periods of time, where local papers are not yet on the BNA website. This can mean that there are long apparent gaps in a player's career where it's unclear where they were playing. Often it's not really possible to say when or where a player's career ended, unless there is a report specifically stating that they have retired.
Ken Flint (above) was one of the few stars of this period, who later had a lengthy career with Spurs and Aldershot
ALLEN Fred
ALLEN Fred
ATKINS Ernest R
ATKINS Ernest R
Born ?
Position G
Seasons for BTFC 48
BTFC appearances 18 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Wolverton
From BTFC to ?Chelmsford
Other clubs before/after BTFC
Notes Signed summer 48 as amateur, turned pro 10/48. Lived at Yardley Gobion. A goalkeeper of the same name played briefly for Chelmsford later, not clear if same man.
BALDIE Douglas Wilson
BALDIE Douglas Wilson
Born Scoon, 16 April 21
Position IF
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 7 BTFC goals 2
To BTFC from Bristol Rovers
From BTFC to Bristol Rovers
Other clubs before/after BTFC /Chippenham Utd, Chippenham Town
Notes Guest. On Luton's books as amateur pre 45/6. Returned to Bristol Rovers permanently summer 46. At Chippenham Utd by summer 49. To Chippenham Town summer 51. Died 1998.
BALL Jack
BALL Jack
Born ?
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 48
BTFC appearances 28 BTFC goals 9
To BTFC from Luton
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC /Dunstable
Notes At Dunstable by 53/4. Father Jack T Ball played for Southport, Man Utd, Sheff Wed, Huddersfield and Luton pre-WW2 and later managed Vauxhall Motors FC. Not related to Stan Ball.
BALL Stanley W (Stan)
BALL Stanley W (Stan)
Born ?
Position WH
Seasons for BTFC 46
BTFC appearances 34 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Wolves
From BTFC to Atherstone
Other clubs before/after BTFC /Brush Sports (Loughborough), Atherstone (second spell)
Notes Made a handful of first team appearances for Wolves in wartime but none in peacetime. To Atherstone summer 47, Brush Sports summer 48, back to Atherstone Nov 49.
BEDNALL Alan
BEDNALL Alan
Born ?
Position FB
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from
From BTFC to
Other clubs before/after BTFC
Notes Amateur, from Derbyshire. Played only in Bedford Avenue FAC replay 45/6
BEX William G (Bill)
BEX William G (Bill)
Born Age 23 in summer 46.
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 45-47
BTFC appearances 68 BTFC goals 14
To BTFC from Northampton (am)
From BTFC to Wellingborough
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Northampton Colts XI 45/6. Said to have been recommended by Northampton manager Tom Smith, but never played for Northampton first team. Amateur when signed in 3/46, turned pro in summer 46. Released summer 48. At Wellingborough by 9/49.
BICHENER Philip John (Jack)
BICHENER Philip John (Jack)
Born 1922
Position G
Seasons for BTFC 46
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Bedford Avenue
From BTFC to Hitchin
Other clubs before/after BTFC Elstow Abbey/Biggleswade (two spells), Potton
Notes Amateur, in reserves 46/7 but played one first team game at end of 46/7. Played for Avenue v BTFC in FA Cup 45/6, and twice for Potton v BTFC in FA Cup in 50s. Died 1984
.
BICKNELL Charlie
BICKNELL Charlie
See Best Years Players A-B and Managers and Coaches, 1945-82
BIGGS Arthur Gilbert
BIGGS Arthur Gilbert
Born Wootton (Beds), 26 April 15
Position IF
Seasons for BTFC 46
BTFC appearances 31 BTFC goals 7
To BTFC from Ipswich
From BTFC to Colchester
Other clubs before/after BTFC ? Wootton BC, Arsenal, Hearts, Aberdeen, Luton, C Palace, Portsmouth, Watford/Vauxhall Motors, Wootton BC
Notes Pro forms for Arsenal Dec 1933. To Hearts Dec 1937 (£2500 fee). To Aberdeen Oct 38 (fee "in region of £2000"). Wartime guest for Luton (from Oct 39) Crystal Palace, Watford (Sept 41), Portsmouth (March 43), and Ipswich. To BTFC summer 46. To Colchester late in 46/7, did not play for them after early 47/8. Playing for Vauxhall Motors by 12/48, back at Wootton by 3/51. Later coach at Vauxhalls. Died 1996 (see photo at end of this section)
BIRKBECK T-----
BIRKBECK T-----
Born
Position
Seasons for BTFC 47
BTFC appearances 8 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from
From BTFC to
Other clubs before/after BTFC
Notes Amateur. Name sometimes written BIRBECK. Beds Times for 9 Jan 48 said club insisted that BIRKBECK was the correct version and the newspaper used it thereafter.
BIRTWISTLE Gordon L
BIRTWISTLE Gordon L
Born ?
Position G
Seasons for BTFC 46
BTFC appearances 6 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to Nuneaton
Other clubs before/after BTFC /Bedford Avenue
Notes Regular reserve keeper 46/7, at Nuneaton by early 48 (with George Watson), with Bedford Avenue by early 50s
BISHOP E-----
BISHOP E-----
Born ?
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 2 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Queen’s Works
From BTFC to ?Queen’s Works
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur
BOYLE Cwnan (“Jock”)
BOYLE Cwnan (“Jock”)
BRINE Albert S A
BRINE Albert S A
Born 29 May 1922
Position FB or CH
Seasons for BTFC 47
BTFC appearances 9 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Guildford
From BTFC to Hastings
Other clubs before/after BTFC Wolves/Headington, Croydon Rovers
Notes From Guildford to BTFC Jan 48. Released summer 48. At Headington by 49/50. At Croydon by 9/50.
BROWN P----(“Fred”)
BROWN P----(“Fred”)
Born ?
Position WH
Seasons for BTFC (1) 45, (2) 47
BTFC appearances (1) 4, (2) 2 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC Huddersfield, Sunderland/
Notes Guest in first spell, had to return to West Country on demob in 10/45. Apparently signed permanently in second spell but not clear where from. No known FL appearances
BURR P------
BURR P------
Born ?
Position FB
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Bedford Avenue
From BTFC to Bedford Avenue
Other clubs before/after BTFC /Bedford Corinthians, Eynesbury
Notes Amateur. His single appearance for the first team was against Avenue in FAC, 45/6! With Coriinthians by late 47/8. At Eynesbury by 51/2 (played for them v BTFC in FA Cup)
CAMPBELL Maurice
CAMPBELL Maurice
Born age 24 in 8/47
Position CF or WH
Seasons for BTFC 47-48
BTFC appearances 39 BTFC goals 1
To BTFC from Norwich
From BTFC to St Neots
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Signed summer 47, released summer 48. Said to have worked at Stewartby
CAPSTICK Albert Lewin
CAPSTICK Albert Lewin
CHAPMAN George
CHAPMAN George
CHISHOLM John Richardson (Jack)
CHISHOLM John Richardson (Jack)
Born Edmonton, 9 Oct 24
Position CH
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Tottenham
From BTFC to Tottenham
Other clubs before/after BTFC /Brentford, Sheffield United, Plymouth, Helston Athletic
Notes Guest. Pro with Spurs 10/42, to Brentford 10/47 (part exchange for Cyril Toulouse), to Sheff Utd 3/49 (fee "about £16,000") , to Plymouth 12/49 (£12,000 fee), Helston (Cornwall) 10/55 . Later coached Finchley (10/56) and managed Romford (4/58 to early 62). Played first class cricket for Middlesex and MCC, and also Minor Counties cricket for Beds and Devon. Worth googling his name in British Newspaper Archive for early 60s for revelations in the People about his allegedly colourful career. Died 1977.
COLEMAN Sid
COLEMAN Sid
COMERFORD Pat
COMERFORD Pat
COUZENS John F
COUZENS John F
Born Haynes, Beds, date of birth unknown
Position CF
Seasons for BTFC 46
BTFC appearances 3 BTFC goals 3
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to Bedford Avenue
Other clubs before/after BTFC /Wootton BC
Notes Amateur. Scored twice on senior debut v Chelmsford
CRADDOCK Robert C R (Bob)
CRADDOCK Robert C R (Bob)
Born ?
Position FB or CH
Seasons for BTFC 46-48
BTFC appearances 27 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to Biggleswade
Other clubs before/after BTFC ? /Britannia Works
Notes Amateur. To Biggleswade 10/48. With Britannia by 1/49.
CROWE Ronald F H (Ron)
CROWE Ronald F H (Ron)
Born age 26 in 8/47, place of birth not known
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 47
BTFC appearances 4 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Gravesend
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC/ Tooting, Bexleyheath, Eastbourne Town, Eastbourne Utd
Notes Scored hat trick for Gravesend v BTFC 9/46. Permit player with Eastbourne Town (amateurs) by 53/4, to Eastbourne Utd 2/55, said to have appeared for Tooting and Bexleyheath earlier but dates unclear. Retired due to ill health 55/6 .
CULLEN David
CULLEN David
Born ?
Position FB
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 4 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Queen’s Works
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur, brother of Ivor??
CULLEN Ivor A
CULLEN Ivor A
Born ?
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 45-46 (plus pre-WW2)
BTFC appearances 7 BTFC goals 2
To BTFC from Queen’s Works
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Also played prewar, at least from 38/9 (see Player List, 1908-39. Amateur in 45/6 but pro by early 46/7. Brother of David??
CUMMING Jimmy
CUMMING Jimmy
DAMON Stan
DAMON Stan
Born ?
Position IF
Seasons for BTFC 48
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Bedford Corinthians
From BTFC to Bedford Corinthians
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?/Kempston
Notes Amateur, in reserves from early 48/9. Two other Damons, R and J, also played for Corinthians; R and S were at Kempston by 52/3
DELAHAY Reginald (Reg)
DELAHAY Reginald (Reg)
Born ?
Position F
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 3 BTFC goals 1
To BTFC from Bedford Avenue
From BTFC to Bedford Avenue
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur. Had returned to Avenue by 11/46
DENTON C---W---(“Stan”)
DENTON C---W---(“Stan”)
Born ?
Position FB
Seasons for BTFC 45-46
BTFC appearances 20 BTFC goals 0 21
To BTFC from Queens’ Works
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Two different Dentons played for BTFC in 38/9, possibly related (see Player List, 1908-39)
DREYER Gordon
DREYER Gordon
Born Whitburn, 1 June 14
Position FB or CH
Seasons for BTFC 46
BTFC appearances 28 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Cheltenham
From BTFC to Gravesend
Other clubs before/after BTFC Washington Colliery, Bolton, Hartlepools, Hull, Hartlepools, Luton/Rushden
Notes Triallist at Bolton 32 but not retained. Pro with Hartlepools 6/34, to Hull summer 35 ("fairly substantial" fee), Hartlepools again summer 36 (free transfer), Luton summer 37. From Cheltenham to BTFC summer 46. To Gravesend summer 47 to end 48/9. At Rushden by 49/50. Died 2003
DUFFETT Edgar
DUFFETT Edgar
DUKES Harold Parkinson (Harry)
DUKES Harold Parkinson (Harry)
Born Portsmouth, 31 March 12
Position G
Seasons for BTFC 45-46
BTFC appearances 24 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Norwich
From BTFC to Norwich
Other clubs before/after BTFC Orwell Works, Ipswich (am), Brentford, Fulham (guest)/Biggleswade, Newmarket Town.
Notes Guest in 45/6 while in RAF, but signed for BTFC permanently summer 46, only to rejoin Norwich in autumn 46 to solve a goalkeeper injury crisis there. Free transfer from Norwich 2/47. By 1/49 said to be coaching Bedford Thursday FC and playing for them at CF. With Biggleswade (as goalkeeper) later in 48/9, appointed PM at Newmarket 6/49, resigned 9/50. Landlord of pub at Biggleswade (1949) and later in Cambridge (3/52). Also guested for Brentford and Fulham in WW2. Name always spelled DUKE in press while at BTFC, but DUKES at his other clubs. BMD index gives DUKES for birth and death entries, so this spelling has been adopted here. Died 1988
EDWARDS R-----
EDWARDS R-----
Born ?
Position WH
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 19 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Crystal Palace
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Unclear if guest or permanent
EMERY----
EMERY----
Born ?
Position CF
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 4 BTFC goals 3
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Said to have been a triallist who was not retained despite high strike rate. First name and initials unknown. Possibly related to B Emery and/or Dennis Emery (see Best Years Players C-E??)
EMERY B----
EMERY B----
EVANS G Roy
EVANS G Roy
Position FB
Seasons for BTFC 45-46 [plus prewar]
BTFC appearances 3 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur. Returned to club 46/7 ?from war service. Not to be confused with an unrelated player of same initials who played in reserves in early 50s
FARROW Desmond Albert (Des)
FARROW Desmond Albert (Des)
Born Peterborough, 11 Feb 26
Position WH
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from QPR
From BTFC to QPR
Other clubs before/after BTFC Leicester (am)/Stoke, Peterborough
Notes Guest. According to local press a young defender on QPR's books, named as FARRELL, played v Colchester in 3/46 but Essex Chronicle report of the match names him as FARROW; seems likely to be this player as there is no trace of a FARRELL at QPR . Farrow signed pro for QPR 11/44, to Stoke 10/52 (£4000 fee and part exchange for George Mountford), to Peterborough summer 55. Retired after 57/8 and later became landlord of pub at Farcet near Peterborough before retiring to Norfolk [Eric Heath site]
(See photo at end of this section)
FAULKNER S Frank
FAULKNER S Frank
FEASEY Kenneth (Ken)
FEASEY Kenneth (Ken)
Born ?
Position IF
Seasons for BTFC 45-48 (at least two spells)
BTFC appearances 17 BTFC goals 1
To BTFC from Bedford Corinthians
From BTFC to Bedford Avenue
Other clubs before/after BTFC /St Neots
Notes Amateur. Also played for Charlton Resereves as an amateur in 45/6. At Avenue by 4/47 but back again summer 48
FILBY Donald H (Don)
FILBY Donald H (Don)
Born ?
Position CF
Seasons for BTFC 46-49 (at least two spells)
BTFC appearances 35 BTFC goals 16
To BTFC from Kempston
From BTFC to Potton
Other clubs before/after BTFC /Biggleswade
Notes Amateur, debut early 47. Had joined Potton by Sept 48 but returned for second spell Oct 49. Rejoined Potton for 50/1 (played v BTFC in FAC)
FLINT Kenneth (Ken)
FLINT Kenneth (Ken)
Born Kirkby (Notts), 12 Nov 23
Position IF or W
Seasons for BTFC 45-46
BTFC appearances 56 BTFC goals 24
To BTFC from Notts County (am)
From BTFC to Tottenham
Other clubs before/after BTFC Leicester (am)/Aldershot, Leyton Orient, Bath, Sittingbourne
Notes Debut as amateur for Notts Co in 10/43. Amateur until he left BTFC in summer 47, turned pro at Spurs. To Aldershot 7/50, Orient 6/58, to Bath later that season, at Sittingbourne by summer 59. Uncle Billy Flint played for Notts Co either side of WW1. England schools international. Died May 2010.
(see photo at top of this section)
FORD Victor (Vic)
FORD Victor (Vic)
Born ?
Position IF
Seasons for BTFC 45-46
BTFC appearances 20 BTFC goals 2
To BTFC from Ipswich
From BTFC to Barry Town
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes At RAF Cardington. Unclear if pro or amateur.
FRANCIS Walter G---
FRANCIS Walter G---
Born ?
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Only appearance was in FAC replay v Bedford Avenue. Nothing known, but presumably amateur. (A player of the same surname and initials, said to have previously played for “Liverpool Customs”, appeared in goal in the public trial match in August 1939, but it isn’t clear if he is the same man).
FRANKLIN Clifford G
FRANKLIN Clifford G
Born ?Wilstead, age 21 in 9/48
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 48
BTFC appearances 11 BTFC goals 2
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to Eynesbury
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur, "from Wilstead". At Eynesbury by early 49/50. Was he related to the club secretary C J Franklin?
GADSDEN Derek
GADSDEN Derek
Born ?
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 47-48
BTFC appearances 12 BTFC goals 3
To BTFC from Watford
From BTFC to Wealdstone
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur, recommended by Dai Ridley. Said to have played for Watford Reserves. At Wealdstone by 10/48. A D Gadsden who played for Pinner early in WW2 could be the same player.
GARNER Charles F (Charlie)
GARNER Charles F (Charlie)
Born ?
Position Utility
Seasons for BTFC 48
BTFC appearances 7 BTFC goals 1
To BTFC from Luton
From BTFC to St Neots
Other clubs before/after BTFC /Biggleswade
Notes
GARRATT Boris L
GARRATT Boris L
Born Newport Pagnell, Oct quarter 1927
Position FB
Seasons for BTFC 48-49
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur. Father Fred played for BTFC pre-WW2, and was reserve trainer in late 40s
GILBERG Harold (Harry)
GILBERG Harold (Harry)
Born Tottenham, 27 June 23
Position CF
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Tottenham
From BTFC to Tottenham
Other clubs before/after BTFC Walthamstow Ave/QPR, Brighton
Notes Guest. Pro at Spurs 10/44, to QPR 4/51, to Brighton 12/52. Retired due to injuries 11/56. Died 1994
GRANT--------
GRANT--------
Born ?
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 3 BTFC goals 2
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Nothing else known
GREYGOOSE William Francis (Bill)
GREYGOOSE William Francis (Bill)
Born London, 24 Sep 1913
Position G
Seasons for BTFC 47
BTFC appearances 26 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Southall
From BTFC to Chelmsford
Other clubs before/after BTFC Enfield, Hayes, Barnet/?
Notes Amateur, Said by press at time he was signed to be an England amateur international, but in fact only an international triallist. With Enfield from at least 33/4, to Hayes by 9/38, at Barnet by 5/41, Southall by 12/46. To BTFC summer 47. To Chelmsford 3/48 but had left there by summer 48. Died 1990.
HALL Freddie
HALL Freddie
HALLAM F-----G----
HALLAM F-----G----
Born Age 19 in 11/48, birthplace unknown
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 48
BTFC appearances 7 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Notts County
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur, in RAF. Failed to turn up at Kidderminster, 4/49, leaving team to play with ten men throughout. A player called F G Halllam features in lineups for Notts teams Apsley Colliery in 47/8 and Mapperly in 49/50.
HARTIS John
HARTIS John
Born Durham, age unknown
Position G or CF
Seasons for BTFC 46
BTFC appearances 3 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Chelsea (am)
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur, alleged to have played for Chelsea Res, in RAF. One of his appearances for BTFC was at CF and the other two in goal! (At first wrongly named as HARRIS). Could be the same player as the Jack Hartis who played in goal for Whitehaven, Penrith, Shildon and Evenwood in the late 40s-
HAYES “Vic”
HAYES “Vic”
HENSON George Horace
HENSON George Horace
Born Stony Stratford, 26 June 11
Position CH or WH
Seasons for BTFC 45-47
BTFC appearances 77 BTFC goals 9
To BTFC from Queen’s Works
From BTFC to Stony Stratford Sports
Other clubs before/after BTFC Wolverton, Northampton, Wolves, Swansea, Bradford PA, Sheffield United/
Notes Played mainly at CF in his Football League career pre-WW2- signed as amateur for Northampton 1932/3, turned pro summer 33, to Wolves Nov 34, Swansea summer 36, Bradford PA summer 37, Sheffield Utd March 39. Returned to Northampton and Wolverton as guest in WW2. Queens' Works 44/5. Player coach at Stony Stratford, still playing in 54/5. Later worked at Wolverton Railway Carriage Works. Brother Bill played briefly for BTFC pre WW2. Died 1988. (See photo at end of this section)
HIMSWORTH------
HIMSWORTH------
Born ?
Position IF
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur, nothing else known, but was he identical with or related to Tommy Himsworth, from Stewartby, a well-known local referee of the 1950s?
HOLBORN-----
HOLBORN-----
Born ?
Position WH
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?Middlesbrough
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Nothing else known, except that he was “from Middlesbrough”. Possibly a guest.
HOLTON William
HOLTON William
Born Hamilton, age 26 in 7/49
Position FB
Seasons for BTFC 49
BTFC appearances 2 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Blantyre Celtic
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC Bristol Rovers/Peterborough
Notes Had trial at Peterborough early in 51/2, when he was said in the Peterborough Standard for 7 Sept 51 to still be 26! (No first team appearances for Bristol Rovers)
HUNT John
HUNT John
Born ?
Position IF
Seasons for BTFC 48
BTFC appearances 3 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Vauxhall Motors
From BTFC to Kempston
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur
HUTTON-------
HUTTON-------
Born ?
Position FB
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 3 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Guest? Ex RAF, said to have played "in Cheshire League" . Unlikely to be the same man as the Jock Hutton who played in 47-48.
HUTTON John (“Jock”)
HUTTON John (“Jock”)
Born age 26 in 8/47, birthplace unknown
Position Utility
Seasons for BTFC 47-48
BTFC appearances 54 BTFC goals 1
To BTFC from Millwall
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC Dundee Utd/
Notes Assumed not to be the same man as the Hutton who played in 45/6. Said by Bedford papers to have played for Millwall. Dundee Courier and Advertiser for 5 Sept 45 says a serving Royal Navy player called Jock Hutton who was on Dundee Utd's books had recently been playing for Millwall (as guest?) which looks like the right man. Still on books at BTFC summer 49 but said to be on holiday in Scotland and never re-appeared.
INGLE Douglas H
INGLE Douglas H
Born ?
Position IF
Seasons for BTFC 48-49
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?Aylesbury
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur, “from Aylesbury”, debut in reserves 48/9.
JEFFREY G-----
JEFFREY G-----
Born ?
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 45 (and prewar)
BTFC appearances 3 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?Rushden
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Said in press at start of 45/6 to have played for BTFC prewar, though no initials given . A “G Jeffrey” was signed from Rushden in summer 1939 and played OL in the two UCL matches played at the start of 39/40 before football was suspended, so it’s likely that he was the same man.
JOHNSON Roy
JOHNSON Roy
Born ?
Position IF
Seasons for BTFC 48
BTFC appearances 4 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Bedford Avenue
From BTFC to Bedford Avenue
Other clubs before/after BTFC Kempston
Notes Amateur, ex Avenue Minors. Arsenal triallist, Long career with Avenue and Kempston into early 60s
JONES Thomas Cledwyn (Tommy)
JONES Thomas Cledwyn (Tommy)
Born ?Trehafod, date unknown
Position FB or W
Seasons for BTFC 46
BTFC appearances 9 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Guildford
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC Bradford City/
Notes Said in local press to have played for Bradford City and guested in WW2 for Bradford PA, St Mirren, Raith, Third Lanark and Airdrie. The only Thomas Jones, of the many listed in Joyce, who played for Bradford City is the man born at Trehafod, for whom no date of birth was stated. A TC Jones played once as a guest for Bradford PA in the war, which also “fits”, although this identification can’t be regarded as 100% reliable.
KELLY-------
KELLY-------
Born ?
Position CF
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?Coventry
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur, “from Coventry”, nothing else known.
KEMP John (Jack)
KEMP John (Jack)
Born
Position G
Seasons for BTFC 46
BTFC appearances 27 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Butterley Welfare
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes “From North Midlands”. Father Haydn played for Notts Co and Thames Association, 1930s.
KING Joffre M (“Joff”)
KING Joffre M (“Joff”)
Born Bedford, October quarter 1915
Position WH or IF
Seasons for BTFC 45-46 (plus prewar)
BTFC appearances 10 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to Bedford Avenue
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur, prewar BTFC player. At Avenue by 3/47. Youngest of a large footballing family, see Various topics, 1908-39 under "Odds and Ends" and then "The Remarkable King Brothers"
KINNEAR Samuel D (Sam)
KINNEAR Samuel D (Sam)
Born ?
Position CF
Seasons for BTFC 47-48 un
BTFC appearances 8 BTFC goals 5
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur, reserve debut 11/47
LAWSON Bernard Frederick
LAWSON Bernard Frederick
LESSLIE Kenneth Gordon (Ken)
LESSLIE Kenneth Gordon (Ken)
Born West Ham, 4 Jan 23
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 49
BTFC appearances 5 BTFC goals 1
To BTFC from Watford
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC Ipswich/
Notes Pro with Ipswich 8/47, to Watford 7/48. Died 1991 .
LIMBERT H-----
LIMBERT H-----
Born ?Leicester, age 26 in 8/47
Position CF
Seasons for BTFC 47
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to Nuneaton
Other clubs before/after BTFC /Hinckley, Rugby
Notes Amateur, unclear if played for Leicester or just born there. At Nuneaton (with George Watson) by 11/47, at Hinckley by 12/48, to Rugby summer 49.
LINAKER John Edward (Johnny)
LINAKER John Edward (Johnny)
Born Southport, 14 Jan 27
Position W or IF
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 2 BTFC goals 1
To BTFC from Manchester City
From BTFC to Manchester City
Other clubs before/after BTFC Everton(am)/Southport, Notts Forest, York, Hull, York, Scarborough, Crewe, Ashington
Notes Guest. Pro at Man City 8/45, Southport 11/46, Notts Forest 9/47, York (first spell) 6/50, Hull 10/51, York (second spell) 5/53, Crewe (from Scarborough) 7/57, Ashington summer 58. Died 2014.
LUNN George
LUNN George
Born Bolton-on-Dearne, 28 June 15
Position CH
Seasons for BTFC 49
BTFC appearances 26 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Kidderminster
From BTFC to Rugby, Buxton, Sutton [Coldfield] Town
Other clubs before/after BTFC Frickley, Aston Villa, Birmingham, Watford/
Notes Age quoted in Beds Times as 27 in 1949! Contract apparently cancelled after incidents at Yeovil 3/50. Out of game until signed for Rugby in Sept 1951 (Birmingham Sports Argus 15/9/51). PM at Sutton by Dec 51. Scouted for Aston Villa later in 50s. Died 2000.
MARRIOTT George W
MARRIOTT George W
Born ?
Position CH
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 7 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Derby
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC Pye Bridge/
Notes One wartime appearance for Derby’s first team (42/3).
McARTHUR-----
McARTHUR-----
Born ?
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes ?Guest. “A young Scot”. Nothing else known.
McCORMACK ?P-------
McCORMACK ?P-------
Born ?
Position IF
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 4 BTFC goals 2
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes ?Guest. Also described as “D McCORMICK”.
McCREDDIE P-------
McCREDDIE P-------
Born ?
Position G
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 4 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?/Ecko Sports (Southend)
Notes At RAF Cardington. Played for Charlton Reserves over Xmas 45. At Ecko Sports by 2/48 (played for them v BTFC Reserves in London League).
McGRORY Frank
McGRORY Frank
Born ?Scotland
Position Utility
Seasons for BTFC 48
BTFC appearances 4 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC Glasgow Celtic/?
Notes Amateur, reserve debut 1/49, said to have been with "an Isthmian League club" immediately beforehand. Had to return to Scotland because of family illness 4/49 and did not re-appear.
McNEIL--------
McNEIL--------
Born ?
Position CH
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Hibs
From BTFC to Hibs
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Guest . Also spelled McNEAL. ??could he be the Matthew McNeil who later played for Newcastle, Barnsley, Brighton and Norwich, 49-56, who also started at Hibs and was also a CH?
McNEILLY George
McNEILLY George
Born age 27 in 11/48, birthplace unknown
Position WH or IF
Seasons for BTFC 48
BTFC appearances 9 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Gravesend
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC Leyton Orient/?
Notes Reserve debut 11/48 on month’s trial, stayed for rest of season
MILLS R------
MILLS R------
Born ?
Position CF
Seasons for BTFC 48
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur, nothing else known
MOORHOUSE Alan
MOORHOUSE Alan
MORRIS -----
MORRIS -----
Born ?
Position WH
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 11 BTFC goals 1
To BTFC from ?Cardiff
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes ?Guest, Warrant Officer in RAF. Unclear if he played for Cardiff or just lived there.
MORRISON John
MORRISON John
Born ?
Position WH or IF
Seasons for BTFC 48
BTFC appearances 3 BTFC goals 1
To BTFC from Edgware
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur
MULLIGAN--------
MULLIGAN--------
Born ?
Position IF
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 2 BTFC goals 1
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Guest (in RAF). Nothing else known.
MURRAY -----
MURRAY -----
Born ?
Position CF
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Nothing known. Assumed not to have been the same man as “Jock” Murray (47/8)
MURRAY J---- (“Jock”)
MURRAY J---- (“Jock”)
Born ?
Position WH or IF
Seasons for BTFC 47
BTFC appearances 7 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Bedford Avenue
From BTFC to Kempston
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Assumed not to have been same man as the CF who played 45/6. Worked for Horseshoe Coaches and sometimes drove team bus to matches in which he was playing!
NEWMAN-------
NEWMAN-------
Born ?
Position CH
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Nothing else known. Possibly a pseudonym (like AN Other)?
NICHOLS Frank
NICHOLS Frank
Born ?Leicester
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 45-46
BTFC appearances 9 BTFC goals 2
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to Wellingborough
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Unclear if he had played for Leicester, but lived there. Amateur in 45/6 (while in RAF), pro in 46/7
OATES B-----
OATES B-----
Born ?
Position CF
Seasons for BTFC 46
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur, in RAF, “from Yorkshire”. Nothing else known
O’HAGAN Frank
O’HAGAN Frank
PALMER Ronald William (Ron)
PALMER Ronald William (Ron)
(see photo below)
Born Croydon, 23 Feb 1916
Position WH or IF
Seasons for BTFC 47
BTFC appearances 9 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Gravesend
From BTFC to Canterbury
Other clubs before/after BTFC Spurs, Northfleet (loan), Millwall, Aldershot, Chelsea (guest)/[retired]
Notes England schoolboy international, signed for Spurs as amateur 1930, on loan to their Northfleet nursery 1932, to Millwall as pro 9/34, Aldershot summer 39, guested (twice) for Chelsea 42/3, returned to Aldershot 45/6 and played in FA Cup for them; with Gravesend 46/7. Reports on his signing for BTFC in 8/47 gave his age as only 28 (actually 31). At Canterbury by 11/49. Manager of Beckenham Town 5/53 to 1/54. Died 1987. [Thanks to Andrew Rowley and the Chelsea Graves Society for this information]
PARSONS Harold
PARSONS Harold
Born ?
Position CF or IF
Seasons for BTFC 49
BTFC appearances 10 BTFC goals 3
To BTFC from Redditch
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC Walsall/?
Notes Initially signed as an amateur in 9/49 but turned pro soon afterwards. Apparently a different player from Roy Parsons (48/9,) although they played in similar positions and there was a “D R Parsons” playing as an amateur in the reserves at the same time as Harold, plus a "A E Parsons" who played in goal for the "A" team!
PARSONS Roy
PARSONS Roy
Born age 23 in 7/48, place of birth unknown
Position CF
Seasons for BTFC 48
BTFC appearances 24 BTFC goals 13
To BTFC from Hemel Hempstead
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC Watford/?
Notes Apparently a different player from Harold Parsons of 48/9 (qv). A “ D R Parsons” played in reserves in similar positions in 49/50 but as an amateur, whereas Roy was described as a pro when signed and released as such at the end of 48/9, suggesting he was different from this Parsons as well!
PELL Ronald E (Ron)
PELL Ronald E (Ron)
Born ?
Position FB
Seasons for BTFC 46-48
BTFC appearances 35 BTFC goals 3
To BTFC from ? Coalville Town
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur from Leicester area, reserve debut autumn 46. Played for Beds County XI several times but in Nov 48 was selected for Leicestershire. A full back with the same initials played for Coalville Town in 46/7 shortly before Pell's reserve debut for BTFC so could be same man. A Ron Pell was playing FB for Whitwick Colliery (Leics) in Sept 58 and said to be "experienced" (Leicester Sports Mail 20 Sept 58) but possibly too late to be the same player.
PIERCE T---W---
PIERCE T---W---
Born ?
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 48-49
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur, nothing else known, Some reports spell name PEIRCE and some PEARCE, but majority PIERCE
POOLE Ben
POOLE Ben
Born Birkenhead, age 27 in 6/46
Position FB
Seasons for BTFC 45-47
BTFC appearances 63 BTFC goals 5
To BTFC from York
From BTFC to Symingtons (Market Harborough)
Other clubs before/after BTFC Preston, Swansea, Southport, Man City, Luton /Peterborough
Notes Guested 45/6, signed permanently summer 46. Schoolboy international. Guested for Swansea, Southport, Man City and Luton in war. Player-coach at Symingtons (works team from Market Harborough), appointed 12/47. To Peterborough summer 48 as player and groundsman, continuing as full time groundsman after retiring as a player in 1950 until at least 62/3, also coached the Colts team and had been a professional golfer. Died October 66.
POPE Herbert C (Bert)
POPE Herbert C (Bert)
Born ?
Position CF
Seasons for BTFC 45-46
BTFC appearances 28 BTFC goals 19
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes In forces at Elstree 45/6, signed permanently summer 46
POPLE ------
POPLE ------
Born ?
Position FB
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 2 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Guest, in Royal Army Ordnance Corps. Nothing else known
POTTER Tom
POTTER Tom
QUINLAN Alan
QUINLAN Alan
REAY Thomas (Tommy) [No 1]
REAY Thomas (Tommy) [No 1]
Born ?
Position IF
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?Bedford Avenue
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes See note under “Tommy Reay [No 2]”
REAY Thomas (Tommy) [No 2]
REAY Thomas (Tommy) [No 2]
Born ?
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 2 BTFC goals 2
To BTFC from Millwall
From BTFC to Millwall
Other clubs before/after BTFC Sunderland/?
Notes The local press report of BTFC’s home match v Chelmsford on Christmas Day, 1945, specifically states that they played TWO Tommy Reays, who were said to be cousins. One was a guest from Millwall, previously with Sunderland-and a T Reay is shown as having played for Sunderland in wartime football in Jack Rollin’s Soccer at War. The other was not described in detail but is likely to have been the man playing for Bedford Avenue later in the 40s. I’ve called him “No 1” and the Millwall man “No 2” here but there is obviously some doubt as to exactly who they were. “No 2” is also said to have played in the return match on Boxing Day, and to have scored from the penalty spot in both matches. Neither ever played for the club again. A "Tom Reay" played on the wing for Blyth Spartans in 53/4 (Shields Daily News 19 Nov 53) and could possibly be the ex Sunderland player.
REID Ernest James (Ernie)
REID Ernest James (Ernie)
(see photo below)
Born Pentrebach, 25 March 13
Position WH
Seasons for BTFC 47
BTFC appearances 29 BTFC goals 3
To BTFC from Norwich
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC Troedyrhiw, Plymouth Utd, Chelsea, Swansea, Brighton (wartime guest)/?
Notes Joyce gives two spells at Swansea (32 and 39) before and after his time at Chelsea, but Chelsea history site (http://www.bounder.friardale.co.uk/Appearances/Qa-Rz.htm) says Chelsea signed him direct from Troedyrhiw in 9/34 and sold him to Swansea in summer 39. Support for this is in Merthyr Express 22 June 35 which reports him leaving Troedyrhiw for Chelsea in 34/5. Possibly earlier spell at Swansea was as an amateur. Older brother Syd played for Luton in 1920s. Died 2007.
REYNOLDS Leslie
REYNOLDS Leslie
Born Stony Stratford, date unknown
Position CF
Seasons for BTFC 45-46
BTFC appearances 4 BTFC goals 3
To BTFC from Wolverton
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes
RIDLEY David George Henry (Dai)
RIDLEY David George Henry (Dai)
Born Pontypridd, 16 Dec 16
Position CF
Seasons for BTFC 47
BTFC appearances 22 BTFC goals 12
To BTFC from Brighton
From BTFC to Tonbridge
Other clubs before/after BTFC Chelsea (guest), Millwall/Merthyr
Notes Brother of Frank. With Millwall 45/6 (with one appearance guesting for Chelsea), Brighton 46/7. On trial at Tonbridge autumn 48, but eventually signed for Merthyr. Died 1988.
RIDLEY Frank
RIDLEY Frank
Born ?Pontypridd, age 24 in 7/48
Position FB
Seasons for BTFC 47
BTFC appearances 27 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Millwall
From BTFC to Merthyr
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur at Millwall, joined BTFC on trial at start of 47/8 but signed pro later in season. To Merthyr 7/48. Younger brother of Dai.
ROBINSON-----
ROBINSON-----
Born ?
Position IF
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes ?Guest, in RAF. Nothing else known
ROGERS-------
ROGERS-------
Born ?
Position CF
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 2 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes ?Guest "from North", in RAF. Nothing else known
ROWE (or ?ROE) Stanley (Stan)
ROWE (or ?ROE) Stanley (Stan)
Born ?
Position WH
Seasons for BTFC 48
BTFC appearances 9 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Chelmsford
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC Tottenham, Guildford/?
Notes Flight Lieutenant in RAF, amateur. Reserve debut 1/49, lived in Leighton Buzzard. Almost certainly the same player who appeared -spelled ROE-for Chelmsford v BTFC in both Christmas SL fixtures in 47/8. Left Chelmsford later that season when transferred in the RAF to the Leicester area (thanks to David Selby for information here). Said to have played for Tottenham reserves in the Football Combination.
SAYERS David E----
SAYERS David E----
Born age 21 in 8/47, birthplace not known
Position CF or IF
Seasons for BTFC 47
BTFC appearances 6 BTFC goals 1
To BTFC from St Albans
From BTFC to St Albans
Other clubs before/after BTFC ? Ipswich/Leytonstone, St Albans, Hitchin
Notes Amateur. With Ipswich early in 45/6 (seehttp://prideofanglia.com/page.php?page=seasons&text=1945-46), then St Albans to end of 46/7, To BTFC summer 47 but back to St Albans in Nov 47 to end 49/50, Leytonstone early 50/1, back to St Albans for a third time by Dec 50 to end 52/3, then Hitchin 53/4 (by then playing WH).
SCARLETT Charles (Charlie)
SCARLETT Charles (Charlie)
Born ?
Position CF
Seasons for BTFC 46-47 (at least three spells)
BTFC appearances 12 BTFC goals 6
To BTFC from Bedford Avenue
From BTFC to Biggleswade
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur, in reserves 45/6, 1st team 46/7; had returned to Avenue by 9/47 but back in reserves 11/47, at Biggleswade 1/48 but back in reserves 3/48
SHARP Kenneth J (Ken)
SHARP Kenneth J (Ken)
Born Age 25 in 10/48, birthplace not known
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 48
BTFC appearances 24 BTFC goals 1
To BTFC from Vauxhall Motors
From BTFC to Vauxhall Motors
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur
SHARPE George A T (“Bert”)
SHARPE George A T (“Bert”)
Born Age 25 in 8/48, birthplace not known
Position FB
Seasons for BTFC 48
BTFC appearances 19 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from New Brighton
From BTFC to Chingford
Other clubs before/after BTFC Luton/?
Notes Some wartime appearances for Luton but none in peacetime.
SMALE Douglas Martin (Doug)
SMALE Douglas Martin (Doug)
(see photo below)
Born London, 27 March 16
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 47
BTFC appearances 14 BTFC goals 1
To BTFC from Colchester
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC Kingstonian, Chelsea/?
Notes To Chelsea March 1937. Guested for Colchester while in army. Chelsea history site wrongly claims he retired in 1945. Joyce gives dob as 27 Feb 1916 but death registration says 27 March. Died 2006.
SMITH Douglas (Doug)
SMITH Douglas (Doug)
Born ?
Position CF
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 4 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Queen’s Works
From BTFC to Bedford Avenue
Other clubs before/after BTFC /St Neots, Biggleswade, Bedford Thursday, Bedford North End
Notes Amateur. More than one spell at Avenue
SMITH Jack Barrage
SMITH Jack Barrage
Born Wolverton, 12 Oct 1919
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 47-48
BTFC appearances 7 BTFC goals 1
To BTFC from Wolverton
From BTFC to Wellingborough
Other clubs before/after BTFC Stony Sratford, Northampton, Leicester, Brentford/
Notes Amateur. Debut in reserves 10/47. Had been on Northampton and Leicester's books pre-war and had signed for Brentford just before war broke out. POW in Far East 1942-5. Died 1997. (Information from his daughter, Vicki Green)
SMITH John Charles Trevor
SMITH John Charles Trevor
Born West Stanley, 8 Sep 10
Position IF
Seasons for BTFC 48
BTFC appearances 31 BTFC goals 1
To BTFC from Watford
From BTFC to [retired]
Other clubs before/after BTFC South Moor, Annfield Plain, West Stanley, Blackpool, Charlton, Fulham, C Palace, Yeovil, Colchester/[retired]
Notes Had trial with Portsmouth in 1930; West Stanley (briefly 1932); Blackpool; Charlton Athletic (May 1933); Fulham (£1,000 fee March 1935); Crystal Palace (£2,500 fee February 1938); in WW 2 guested for Clapton Orient, Fulham, Nottingham Forest, Notts County, Spurs and West Ham. To Yeovil summer 46, to Watford 6/47, to BTFC summer 48, released summer 49. Manager at Wingate FC (North London) by 6/49, still there in 1952. Died 1997. (Thanks to Watfordfcarchive.co.uk for the details).
SMITH Roy K
SMITH Roy K
Born Age 21 in 4/49, birthplace unknown
Position W or IF
Seasons for BTFC 48-49
BTFC appearances 50 BTFC goals 9
To BTFC from Luton Amateur
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur on debut 3/49, turned pro 9/49
SMITH Sid G
SMITH Sid G
STANDON A------
STANDON A------
Born ?
Position IF
Seasons for BTFC 47
BTFC appearances 16 BTFC goals 4
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur initially , in RAF at Milton Ernest but lived in Derby. Signed pro 1/48 on being demobbed
STEWART Sam
STEWART Sam
Born ?Scotland, date not known
Position IF
Seasons for BTFC 48
BTFC appearances 6 BTFC goals 1
To BTFC from Airdrieonians
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Permit player from 11/48, in RAF. Obliged to leave after FA found he had been improperly signed.
STONE Jack
STONE Jack
Born ?
Position Utility
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 9 BTFC goals 6
To BTFC from Sheffield United (guest)
From BTFC to Sheffield United
Other clubs before/after BTFC /Boston Utd, Bourne Town
Notes Guest. Emergency goalkeeper at Bath 45/6. Recalled to Sheff Utd Feb 46. Made several wartime first team appearances for them but none in peacetime. To Boston United in 46/7. To Bourne Town 53/4, became PM there summer 55-by then playing in goal. Played cricket for Lincolnshire.
TAYLOR S----D---
TAYLOR S----D---
Born ?Hunts, date unknown
Position CF
Seasons for BTFC 46
BTFC appearances 5 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur, Hunts county player, debut in reserves 46/7
THOMPSON Kenneth (Ken)
THOMPSON Kenneth (Ken)
Born ?
Position CF
Seasons for BTFC 48
BTFC appearances 3 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Bedford Thursday
From BTFC to Kempston
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur, scored 4 on debut in reserves 11/48, had played for Bedford Thursday but not known who he played for at weekends. At Kempston by 4/50
TOWNSEND Donald (Don)
TOWNSEND Donald (Don)
Born ?Nottingham, date unknown
Position CH
Seasons for BTFC 46
BTFC appearances 4 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to Colchester
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes "From Nottingham area" signed Oct 46, amateur. Re-signed summer 47 but with Colchester (still amateur) by 10/47, but doesn't seem to have played in their first team. A D Townsend playing CH for Raleigh FC in Nottingham Alliance fixtures features in the Nottingham Evening Post for early 46/7, but disappears around the time he started at BTFC.-?same man?. ?related to Bob?
TOWNSEND Robert (Bob)
TOWNSEND Robert (Bob)
Born Nottingham, age 26 in 11/46
Position WH or IF
Seasons for BTFC 46-47
BTFC appearances 43 11BTFC goals 1
To BTFC from Nottingham Forest
From BTFC to Derby/?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?/?
Notes ?Related to Don. Several wartime first team appearances for Forest and regular in their reserves in 45/6, but no first team appearances in peacetime. To BTFC 10/46 when he was said also to have played for Derby. Said by Nottingham papers to have been from Holbrook area of the city.
TRIMBLE-----
TRIMBLE-----
Born ?
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes ?Guest. Nothing known
TUDOR G---A---
TUDOR G---A---
Born ?
Position CF
Seasons for BTFC 46
BTFC appearances 3 BTFC goals 1
To BTFC from Notts County
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur. Said to have guested for Southampton and Derby in WW2, but no first team appearances recorded for either club
TURNER “Larry”
TURNER “Larry”
WALKER D-----
WALKER D-----
Born ?
Position IF
Seasons for BTFC 47
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 1
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Amateur, nothing known
WALTON Harold
WALTON Harold
Born Manchester, 1 April 24
Position W or IF
Seasons for BTFC 48
BTFC appearances 4 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Southend
From BTFC to St Neots
Other clubs before/after BTFC Leicester (am)/Nuneaton, Atherstone
Notes Played for Leicester as amateur early in WW2 before joining Navy. To Southend 5/46, introduced to BTFC by Ron Pell in summer 48. At Nuneaton by 4/50, Atherstone by 9/52. Died 1992.
WATLING Wilfred F
WATLING Wilfred F
Born Age 21 in 1/49, birthplace not known
Position IF
Seasons for BTFC 48
BTFC appearances 16 BTFC goals 1
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to Eynesbury
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?/Dunstable
Notes Amateur, reserve debut 1/49, "from Houghton Regis"-see Eynesbury team v BTFC 51/2 and Dunstable v BTFC 53/4
WATMOUGH D---
WATMOUGH D---
Born ?
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from Rotherham
From BTFC to Rotherham
Other clubs before/after BTFC York/?
Notes Guest. Two wartime first team appearances recorded for York, none for Rotherham
WATSON Ernest (Ernie)
WATSON Ernest (Ernie)
Born in Yorkshire, date unknown
Position F
Seasons for BTFC 45 (also prewar)
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes Pre-war BTFC amateur. Scored heavily in friendlies in 1939/40, see Results and Teams, 1908-39. Not related to George. Later secretary of Bedfordshire Golf Club
WATSON George
WATSON George
Born Gateshead, 24 April 1912
Position W
Seasons for BTFC 46-47 (also prewar)
BTFC appearances 33 BTFC goals 12
To BTFC from Bedford Avenue
From BTFC to Nuneaton
Other clubs before/after BTFC Rushden/Eynesbury, Kempston
Notes Pre-war BTFC amateur, (had moved to Rushden by 38/9), with Avenue 45/6 (and possibly earlier), turned pro on rejoining BTFC from Avenue summer 46. To Nuneaton 10/47. Player coach at Eynesbury. Later PM at Kempston and continued as manager after retiring as player to 1958. Died 1977. Brother Norman ("Paddy") also played for club prewar and later became assistant trainer
WILKINSON-----
WILKINSON-----
Born ?
Position G
Seasons for BTFC 45
BTFC appearances 1 BTFC goals 0
To BTFC from ?
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC ?
Notes In Army at Kempston Depot, first names unknown. A “J Wilkinson” played in goal for Luton in wartime but not post 46
WILLIAMS Kenneth (Ken)
WILLIAMS Kenneth (Ken)
Born ?
Position W or IF
Seasons for BTFC 47
BTFC appearances 21 BTFC goals 5
To BTFC from Watford
From BTFC to Gravesend
Other clubs before/after BTFC Burnley(?am) /?
Notes Hugman gives no birthplace or dob, although he signed pro for Watford in Jan 47 and made two FL appearances that season. Released to BTFC summer 47. To Gravesend on a month's trial 11/48.
WILMOT John A
WILMOT John A
Born Age 23 in 8/47, birthplace unknown
Position WH
Seasons for BTFC 47
BTFC appearances 11 BTFC goals 1
To BTFC from Luton
From BTFC to ?
Other clubs before/after BTFC
Notes A J A Wilmot made one wartime first team appearance for Luton
Arthur Biggs (left) was a local boy from Wootton who returned to the area after a pre-war career with Arsenal, Hearts and Aberdeen. He also played briefly for Colchester before becoming a respected coach at Vauxhall Motors
George Henson (left) had been a centre-forward in League football before the War, but had dropped back into defence by the time he turned out for Bedford in the early post-war seasons.
Des Farrow (left) was one of the many guests who had a short stay at the Eyrie before playing for QPR, Stoke and Peterborough
Jack Chisholm (left) was another brief guest who had a long career with Spurs, Brentford, Sheffield United and Plymouth. In the 60s his lurid revelations about the seamier side of the game were serialised in the People.
Doug Smale (above) was a winger who had made a few appearances for Chelsea before the war as well as for Kingstonian and Colchester before appearing for the Eagles in the largely unsuccesful 1947/8 season
Ernie Reid (left) was a Welsh defender who also made all his appearances in the 1947/8 season after spells with Swansea, Chelsea and Norwich. ((Thanks to Andrew Rowley for the photo)
Ron Palmer (above) was a former Millwall and Aldershot midfield player who also appeared briefly in 47/8 having guested for Chelsea during the war. (Thanks to Andrew Rowley for the photo)
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