Blyth Spartans team photograph archive

This is a unique archive of all known official team photographs, line-up photos and team group images from throughout the club’s history.
Featuring rare and previously unseen images it ranges from 1901 through to the present day.
Showing the club’s fascinating shirt history, it is a pictorial record of the different styles worn through the years.

• This page is not claiming ownership or credit for any of the images that appear, it is purely an attempt to collate them in one place.
  If the photographers or image owners are known they have been credited and acknowledged.
  If you know whom took or owns an image and credit has been missed off please get in touch so it can be attributed.

If you know of any team photo’s/images that do not feature please get in touch so they can be added.
Also, if you know any of the missing/unknown names from the descriptions please get in touch so they can be added.
Contact – theblythspirit@hotmail.com

———–
2023/24 –L to R –
Rhys Evans, Will McGowan, Jordan Hickey, Finn Cousin-Dawson, Elliot Forbes,
Alex Mitchell, Jack Bodenham, Nicky Deverdics, Jordan Cook, Joe Oliver, Zanda Siziba.
* Taken on Saturday 24th February 2024 before 2-2 NLN home draw with Boston Utd.
Was first game played under new ownership following takeover of club.


L to R –
JJ O’Donnell, Alex Mitchell, Joe Oliver, Finn Cousin-Dawson, Jack Bodenham,
Nicky Deverdics, Elliot Forbes, Will McGowan, Michael Liddle, Cedric Main, JJ Hooper.
* Taken on Saturday 23rd September 2023 before
1-3 NLN home defeat to Alfreton Town.


L to R –
JJ O’Donnell, Alex Mitchell, Jack Bodenham, Finn Cousin-Dawson, Joe Oliver,
Will McGowan, Elliot Forbes, Michael Liddle hidden by the No.9,
Harrison Clark, JJ Hooper.
* Taken on Monday 18th September 2023 before 3-1 FA Cup 2nd Q
Round Replay Extra Time win at Bradford (Park Avenue).

L to R –
JJ O’Donnell, Rhys Evans, Finn Cousin-Dawson, Alex Mitchell,
Will McGowan, Nicky Deverdics, Jordan Hickey, Curtis Round,
Jack Bodenham, Michael Liddle, JJ Hooper.
* Taken on Saturday 5th May 2023 before 4-2 NLN home win
over Gloucester City at Croft Park in opening game of 2023/24 season.

2022/23 –

L to R –
JJ O’Donnell, Jordan Hickey, Rhys Evans, Toby Lees, Nicky Deverdics, Alex Mitchell,
Cedric Main, Finn Cousin-Dawson, Michael Liddle, Will McGowan, Michael Spellman.
* Taken on Saturday 29th May 2023 before 5-0 NLN home win
over Hereford in final to retain NLN status.
• No official team photo taken before 22/23 season so these are
only kind of team images available.

Back Row L to R –
Michael Richardson, Curtis Round, Matthew Elsdon, Jay Errington,
Michael Spellman, Finn Cousin-Dawson.
Front Row L to R –
Josh Gillies, Will McGowan, JJ O’Donnell, Alex Mitchell, Matthew Doopson.
* Taken on Tuesday 25th May 2023 before Northumberland Senior Cup Final
at St James’ Park, Newcastle, lost 0-2 to Morpeth Town.

Back Row L to R –
Will McGowan, Cedric Main, Rhys Evans, Alex Mitchell, Toby Lees,
Michael Spellman, Matthew Elsdon, Michael Liddle.
Front Row L to R –
JJ O’Donnell, Nicky Deverdics, Jordan Hickey.
* Taken on Tuesday 18th April 2023 before 2-0 NLN away win at Farsley Celtic.
• Only team photo with that seasons away kit, (organised by JJ O’Donnell to
show support to 4 year old Arthur Hoult who is suffering from Leukaemia).


L to R –
JJ O’Donnell partially hidden by macth official, Will McGowan, Rhys Evans,
Finn Cousin-Dawson, Alex Mitchell, Matthew Elsdon, Jordan Hickey,
Nicky Deverdics, Curtis Round, Troy Chiabi, Cedric Main.
*Taken on Saturday 25h March 2023 before 0-2 NLN defeat
by Chester at Croft Park.

L to R –
Cedric Main, Rhys Evans, Tony Lees, Jordan Hickey, Alex Mitchell, Nicky Deverdics,
Finn Cousin-Dawson, Curtis Round, Michel Liddle Troy Chiabi.
*Taken on Saturday 18th February 2023 before 1-0 NLN win
over Kettering Town at Croft Park.

L to R –
Alex Nicholson, Cedric Main, Will McGowan, Toby Lees, Michael Richardson,
Matthew Elsdon, Curtis Round, Matt Cornish, Rhys Evans, Alex Mitchell, Nicky Deverdics.
* Taken on Saturday 5th November 2022 before 3-0 NLN
home win over AFC Telford United.
• A rather unusual team photo taken by club photographer Paul Scott
as players marked Remembrance Day with minute silence

L to R –
JJ O’Donnell, Alex Mitchell, Liam Ravenhill, Jordan Hickey, Toby Lees, Matthew Elsdon,
Michael Richardson, Michael Liddle, Cedric Main, Nicky Deverdics.
*Taken on Saturday 18th October 2022 before 1-1 FA Cup 4th Qualifying Round
draw with Wrexham at Croft Park.

October 2022 –L to R –
Ian Mutrie, Rob Carney, Steve ‘Jos’ Jones, Terry Day, Keith Houghton, Brian Slane,
John ‘Eddie’ Alder, Dave Varty, Mick Dagless, Ron Guthrie.
* Taken on Saturday 18th October 2022 before FA Cup 4th Qualifying Round
tie with Wrexham at Croft Park.
• The players from 77/78 cup run were guests of honour at the game
45 years after club last faced Wrexham in that famous cup run.


L to R –
Alex Nicholson, Michel Richardson, Jordan Hickey, Lewis McNall,
JJ O’Donnell, Nathan Buddle, Nickey Deverdics, Alex Mitchell,
Matthew Elsdon, Danny Barlow Michael Liddle.
*Taken on Saturday 17th September 2022 before FA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round
2-0 win over Guiseley at Croft Park.

2021/22 –Back Row L to R –
Holly ???, Sports Nutritionist, Jeff Young Fixture Secretary, Gary Neasham Physio,
Nicky Deverdics, Nathan Buddle, Sado Dajlo, Toby Lees,
Greame Coulson Assistant Manager, Patrick Almond, Sean Reid, Alex Curran,
Alex Mitchell behind Connor Thomson, Ian Aitken Goalkeeper Coach, Robbie Dale,
Rob Wark Physio, Terry Mitchell Manager, Peter Henderson Groundsman/Kitman.
Front Row L to R –
Dan Maguire, Lewis McNall, JJ O’Donnell, Jordan Watson, Corey McKeown,
Rhys Evans, Jordan Hickey.
* Taken on Thursday 5th May 2022 before 3-2 Northumberland Senior Cup Final
win over Newcastle United Under 23’s at St James’ Park.

Back Row L to R –
Toby Lees, Sado Dajlo, Robbie Dale, Nathan Buddle, Alex Mitchell, Corey McKeown.
Front Row L to R –
Nicky Deverdics, Lewis McNall, Patrick Almond, JJ O’Donnell, Rhys Evans.
* Taken on Thursday 5th May 2022 before Northumberland Senior Cup Final
at St James’ Park, Newcastle.

Back Row L to R –
Ian Aitken Goalkeeper coach, Josh Robson, Michael Liddle,
Robbie Dale partially hidden at back, Toby Lees, Alex Curran,
Alex Mitchell, Greame Coulson Assistant Manager,
Connor Thomson, Rhys Evans, JJ O’Donnell, Sean Reid, Angelo Cappello,
Lewis McNall right at back, Terry Mitchell Manager,
Peter Henderson Kitman at back with McNall,
Paddy Almond in front of Henderson, Corey McKeown.
Front Row L to R –
Danny Barlow, Gary Neasham Physio, Sado Dajlo.
* Taken on Saturday 30th April 2022 in changing room at
Brackley Town following 1-0 win that ensured NLN safety.

L to R –
Nathan Buddle, Alex Mitchell, Lewis McNall, Jordan Hickey, Corey McKeown,
Jordan Watson, Toby Lees, Michael Liddle, Dom Tear, Nicky Deverdics, JJ O’Donnell.
* Taken on Saturday 6th November 2021 before 0-2 NLN home defeat to Leamington.
• No official team photo taken before season started.

2019/20 –

L to R –
Leighton McIntosh, Aaron Cunningham, Lewis Hawkins, Rhys Evans, Jack Hunter,
Tom Devitt, Zak Hemming, Kris Thackeray, Olly Scott,
Macauley Langstaff, Damon Mullen.
* Taken on Saturday 15th February 2020 before 0-3 NLN
home defeat to Altrincham.
• Was the final home game played before National League
suspended all football due to COVID-19.

L to R –
Callum Roberts, Jack Hunter, Jack Sanders, Scott Wilson, Kris Thackeray, Rhys Evans,
Lewis Hawkins, Michael Sweet, Damon Mullen, Zak Hemming, Robbie Dale.
* Taken on Tuesday 7th January 2020 before 1-3 NLN
defeat at Altrincham.
• Only known team image wearing that season’s all blue away kit.

L to R –
Callum Roberts, Jack Hunter, Lewis Ritson, Olly Scott, Anthony Callaghan, Lewis Hunter,
Michael Sweet, Mark Foden, Damon Mullen.
* Taken at Saturday 21st September 2019 before 4-4 FA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round
draw at Curzon Ashton.

L to R –
Adam Wrightson, Rhys Evans, Jake Orrell, Tom Devitt, Nathan Harker,
Craig Spooner between match officials, Joe Robson hidden behidn referee, Dale Pearson,
Anthony Callaghan hidden by linsemans, Olly Scott, Ryan Hutchinson.
* Taken at Tuesday 13th August 2019 before 0-0 home NLN
defeat to York City.

Back Row L to R –
Peter Henderson Groundsman, Rob Wark Physio, Damon Mullen, Anthony Callaghan,
Josh Neary, Robbie Dale, Dale Pearson, Mark Foden, Michael Sweet,
Ryan Hutchinson, Tom Devitt, Scott Fenwick, Lewis Horner,
Gary Neasham Physio, Jeff Young Fixture Secretary/Kitman.
Front Row L to R –
Olly Scott, Craig Spooner, Ursene Mouanda, Rhys Evans, Lee Clark Manager,
Paul Stephenson Assistant Manager, Jack Butler, Adam Wrightson,
Joe Robson, Jake Orrell.
* Taken before start of 2019/20 NLN season.

L to R –
Robbie Dale, Mark Foden, Ursene Mounada, Scott Fenwick, Rhys Evans,
Ryan Hutchinson, Tom Devitt, Joe Robson, Josh Neary, Jake Orrell, Michael Sweet.
* Taken on Saturday 20th July 2019 at Ashington before 3-0 pre season friendly win.

L to R –
Unknown Player, Scott Fenwick, Josh Neary, Tom Devitt, Lewis Horner, Jake Orrell,
Rhys Evans, Unknown Player, Mark Foden, Ursene Mouanada, Robbie Dale.
* Taken on Saturday 6th July 2019 at Hebburn Town before 2-1 pre season friendly win.

2018/19 –
L to R –
Jarrett Rivers, Michael Liddle, Alex Nicholson, Jordan Watson, Nathan Buddle,
Lewis Horner, Louis Lang, David Atkinson, Sean Reid, Adam Wrightson.
Peter Jameson missing as he was facing a penalty.
* Taken on Wednesday 1st May 2019 during NLN Play Off Qualifier at Altrincham,
drew 2-2 but lost 6-7 on penalties AET.
• No official team photo taken before season started.

L to R –
Michael Liddle, Peter Jameson, Sean Reid, David Atkinson, Lewis Horner, Louis Lang,
Jamie Holmes, Kieran Green, Damon Mullen, Dan Maguire.
* Taken on Monday 1st April 2019 before 3-1 NLN win away at Curzon Ashton.

L to R –
Jarrett Rivers, Alex Nicholson, Peter Jameson, Aaron Cunningham, Sean Reid,
Dan Maguire, Robbie Dale, Bradley Fewster, Lewis Horner,
Jordan Watson, Micheal Liddle.
* Taken on Saturday 15th September 2018 before 0-2 NLN home defeat to Leamington.

2017/18 –
L to R –
Ryan Hutchinson & Jarrett Rivers partially hidden by match officials, Macauley Langstaff,
Dale Hopson, Dan Maguire, Nathan Buddle, Ryan Hutchinson, Peter Jameson,
Robbie Dale, Jordan Watson, Lewis Horner, Michael Liddle.
* Taken on Tuesday 8th August 2017 before 0-2 NLN home
defeat to York City.
*No official team photo taken before season started.

L to R –
David Atkinson & Jarrett Rivers, Dale Hopson, Adam Wrightson,
Sean Reid, Nathan Buddle, Ryan Hutchinson, Peter Jameson,
Damon Mullen, Michael Liddle.
* Taken on Saturday 11th November 2017 during minutes silence to mark
Remembrance Day, before 1-0 NLN home game win over Leamington.
• No official team photo taken before season started.

2016/17 –Back Row L to R –
Michael Liddle, David Atkinson, Richard Pell, Sean Reid, Andrew Cartwright in front of
Luke Armstrong, Robbie Dale with NPL Trophy, Doug Ramsey Volunteer, Jordan Laidler,
Dan Maguire with Senior Cup, Adam McHugh,
Jarrett Rivers, Matty Pattison, Ruan Hutchinsin, Dave McTiernan, Stephen Turnbull,
Alan Courtney supporter, Nathan Buddle.
Front Row L to R –
Paul Woolston, Jordan Watson, Adam Wrightson wearing cap, Damon Mullen.
* Taken on Friday 28th April 2017 at Croft Park Social Club at end of season
Presentation Night. Robbie Dale has NPL Championship trophy
and Dan Maguire has Northumberland Senior Cup.

Back Row L to R –
Jeff Young Kitman, Peter Henderson Groundsman, Rob Wark Physio,
Neal Hooks Assistant Manager, Luke Armstrong, Matty Pattison, Dave McTiernan,
Richard Pell behind Jarrett Rivers, Nathan Buddle, Damon Mullen, Jordan Lailder,
Darren Holloway Assistant Manager partially hidden,
Adam McHugh, Alun Armstrong Manager.
Front Row L to R –
Jordan Watson Micheal Liddle, Sean Reid, Ryan Hutchinson & Dan Maguire behind
Andrew Cartwright, Robbie Dale, Adam Wrightson, Paul Woolston.
* Taken on Wednesday 26th April 2017 at St James’ Park following
3-2 Northumberland Senior Cup Final win.

Back Row L to R –
Darren Holloway Assistant Manager, Nathan Buddle, Neal Hooks Assistant Manager,
Michael Liddle, Paul Woolston, Adam McHugh, Richard Pell, Matty Pattison, Sean Reid,
Luke Armstrong, Jarrett Rivers, Jordan Laidler, Andrew Cartwright,
Rob Wark Physio, Chris Bell Player/Physio, Dave McTiernan, Alun Armstrong Manager.
Front Row L to R –
David Atkinson, Jordan Watson, Damon Mullen, Ryan Hutchinson, Robbie Dale,
Dan Maguire, Adam Wrightson.
* Taken on Saturday 22nd April 2017 following final NPL game of season with
Champions trophy presented after 5-1 win at Croft Park.


• This image of players and management with their families was taken facing the main stand.

L to R –
Rob Wark Physio behind Damon Mullen, Neal Hooks Assistant Manager/Player,
Jarrett Rivers behind Andrew Cartwright, Nathan Buddle, Luke Armstrong,
Adam Wrightson in front of Jordan Watson then Paul Wolston behind him,
Dan Maguire, Ryan Hutchinson, Robbie Dale,
Jordan Laidler, Matty Pattison,
Darren Holloway Assistant Manager, Dave McTiernan.
Alun Armstrong Manager at front.
* Taken on Thursday 20th April 2017 at Croft Park prior to training session.
John Parker of the Supporters Club presented Liz Luff of the
Sir Bobby Robson Foundation a cheque from the sale of the clubs
training tops (being worn in photo) that supported the Foundation.

L to R –
Matthew Pattison, Luke Armstrong, Jarrett Rivers, Andrew Cartwright, Michael Liddle,
Matthew Wade, Damon Mullen, Dan Maguire, Ryan Hutchinson,
Paul Woolston, Nathan Buddle.
* Taken on Tuesday 6th December 2016 before rearranged FA Trophy
3rd Qualifying Round tie at Altrincham.
• Only team photo that exists of that away top which was
worn with previous seasons away shorts

L to R –
Andrew Cartwright, Richard Pell, Nathan Buddle, Stephen Turnbull, Jarrett Rivers,
Dan Maguire, Damon Mullen, Paul Woolston, Luke Armstrong, Chris Bell.
* Taken on Saturday 12th November 2016 at Croft Park before 4-3 FA Trophy
2nd Qualifying Round win over Halesowen Town as player pay their
respects in minutes silence for Remembrance Day.

2015/16 –L to R –
Adam McHugh partially hidden by linesman, Damon Mullen, Dillon Morse hidden by referee,
Arran Wearmouth, Matthew Wade hidden by linesman, Wilson Kneeshaw, Neal Hooks,
Micahel Richardson, Jordan watson, Nathan Buddle, Robbie Dale.
* Taken on Saturday 30th January 2016 at Croft Park before
1-0 NPL win over Grantham Town.

Back Row L to R –
Chris Bell Player/Physio, Ryan Hutchinson, Stuart Bramley, Danny Parker, Neal Hooks,
Arran Wearmouth, Fabien Otto, Nick Thomson, Adam McHugh, Robbie Dale, Sean Reid,
Matthew Wade, Michael Richardson, Tom McNamee, Barry Davidson Physio.
Front Row L to R –
Georgi Kostadinov Fitness Coach, Peter Henderson Groundsman, Paul Robinson,
Dillon Morse, Andrew Cartwright, Dan Maguire, Lee Picton Assistant Manager,
Tom Wade Manager, Damon Mullen, Stephen Turnbull, Jordan Watson,
Alex Nicholson, Jeff Young Fixture Secretary/Kitman, Prince Monga.
* Taken before start of 2015/16 Northern Premier League season,
trophy is Northumberland Senior Cup won in 2014/15

2014/15 –
Back Row L to R –
Chris Bell Player/Physio, Ash Davies, Damon Mullen, Jarrett Rivers,
Stuart Bramley, Neal Hooks, Danny Parker, Matthew Wade, Peter Jeffries,
Nick Thomson, Ryan Cummings, Dan Hawkins,
Jeff Young Kitman, Lee Picton Assistant Manager, Tom Wade Manager.
Front Row L to R –
Alex Nicholson, Jordan Watson (leaning forward), Ryan Hutchinson, Arran Wearmouth,
Robbie Dale, Michael Richardson, Dan Maguire, Stephen Turnbull, Craig Lynch.
* Taken on Monday 27th April 2015 at St James’ Park following
Northumberland Senior Cup Final 2-0 win over Morpeth Town.

Back Row L to R –
Peter Jeffries, Nathan Buddle, Ryan Hutchinson, Arran Wearmouth,
Danny Parker, Robbie Dale Matthew Wade.
Middle Row L to R –
Unknown Bulgarian Trialist, Chris Bell, Joel Dixon, Ryan Cummings,
Jarrett Rivers leaning forward, Alex Nicholson, Michael Richardson.
Front Row L to R –
Ash Davies, Stephen Turnbull, Damon Mullen, Dan Maguire, Jordan Watson.
* Taken on Monday 29th December 2014 at training session ahead of
FA Cup 3rd Round home tie with Birmingham City in Saturday 3rd January 2015.

Back Row L to R –
Chris Bell Player/Physio, Peter Jeffries, Ryan Cummings, Michael Richardson,
Neal Hooks, Joel Dixon with Damon Mullen below him, Dan Hawkins,
Matthew Wade, Nathan Buddle, Stephen Turnbull, Ryan Hutchinson.
Front Row L to R –
Niall Harrison, Alex Nicholson, Dan Maguire, Jordan Watson,
Arran Wearmouth, Jarrett Rivers.
* Taken on Friday 3rd December 2014 following 2-1 win at Hartlepool United in
FA Cup 2nd Round. Game shown live on BBC One’s Match of the Day that night.
• Below version includes Alan Shearer who was MOTD pundit being interviewed live.

Back Row L to R –
Peter Henderson Groundsman/Kitman, Chris Bell, Neal Hooks,
Ryan Cummings, Dan Hawkins, Robbie Dale, Peter Jeffries,
Naill Harrison, OF Connor Grant, Arran Wearmouth, Alex Nicholson,
Prince Monga, Ryan Hutchinson, Danny Parker
Jeff Young Kitman/ Match Secretary, Brian Davison Physio.
Front Row L to R –
Matthew Wade, Ian Watson, Sammy Perez, Nathan Buddle, Jarrett Rivers,
Colin Myers Assistant Manager, Tom Wade Manager, Dan Maguire,
Paul Robinson, Damon Mullen, Ben Sayer, Chris Moore.
* Taken before start of 2014/15 Northern Premier League season.

• Below version was a parody of the Ashley Cole AS Roma team photo
that made news at the time and was copied by loads of clubs.
Ian Watson took up role of Ashley Cole looking in on team photo.

2013/14 –
L to R –
Lewis Horner, Nathan Buddle, Danny Parker, Connor Grant, Dan Maguire,
Matthew Wade, Arran Wearmouth, Paul Fairclough FA Team Manager.
* Taken on Tuesday 25th March 2014 at Bishop Auckland,
• Not a Blyth teams as such but of the 7 Blyth players who were selected
for a FA XI representative side to play a Northern League XI
to mark the finale of the league’s 125th anniversary celebrations.

2012/13 –
Back Row L to R –
Jeff Young Kitman, Paddy Atkinson Assistant Manager,  Jordan Mellish, Ash Davies,
Matty Crook, Robbie Dale, Connor Grant, Scott Blanford, Carl Jones, Craig Farrell,
Carl King Goalkeeper Coach, Susan Coates Physio.
Front Row L to R –
Jake Turnbull, Shaun Vipond, Lee Mason, Wayne Buchanan, Tommy Cassidy Manager,
Joe Kendrick, Phil Airey, Shaun Utterson, Tom Berg.
* Taken before start of 2012/12 Northern Premier League season.

May 2012 –

Back Row L to R –
Richie Bond, Adrian Webster, Robert Birdsall, Peter Snowden, Martin Peace,
Craig Price with Robbie Dale behind him, Andrew Leeson, Chris McCabe,
Alex Gildea, Dale Crawford, Richard Forster.
Front Row L to R –
Harry Dunn Manager, Ged Dalton, Jamie McGlen, Shaun Reay,
Gareth Williams, Andrew Wright, Tony Kennedy Kitman.
Mascots unknown.
* Taken 6th May 2008 after a Scott Bell Benefit match between Blyth Spartans XI
and a Bedlington Terriers XI, which saw ex-Spartans turning out for both sides
to support Scott and help to raise money for the Scott Bell MND fund.

2011/12 –Back Row L to R –
Carl King Goalkeeper coach, Gavin Fell Assistant Manager, Liam Atkin,
Wayne Buchanan, Neal Hooks, Matty Crook, Max Johnson, Matt Hunter,
Carl Jones, Glen Taylor, Dave Coulson, Susan Coates Physio.
Front Row L to R –
Dan Groves, Michael Pearson, Dylan Purvis, Lee Mason,
Chris Emms, Steve Cuggy Manager, Graeme Armstrong, Wayne Phillips,
Richie Slaughter, Phil Bannister, Phil Cave.
* Taken before start of 2011/12 Conference North season.

• This clearer version appeared in the match day programme at start of the season.

2010/11 –
Back Row L to R –
Tony Kennedy Kitman, Michael Simm, Robbie Dale, Nicky Deverdics, Danny Groves,
John Alexander, Neal Hooks, Jake Cunningham, Sam Grievson,
Callum Morris, Calvin Smith, Wayne Buchanan,
Chris Swailes Player/Assistant Manager, Susan Coates Physio.
Front Row L to R –
Eoin Ridley, Stephen Harrison, Liam O’Mahoney, Ian Graham,
Mick Tait Manager, Phil Cave, Paul Brayson, Stephen Turnbull, Michael Tait.
* Taken before start of 2010/11 Conference North season.

2009/10 –L to R –
Darren Craddock, John Brackstone, John Alexander, Ian Graham, Neal Hooks, Robbie Dale,
Micahel Tait, Paul Brayson, Tony Kennedy Kitman, Gareth Williams, Stephen Turnbull,
Stephen Harrison, Steven Foster, Mark Bell.
*Taken in late April 2010 at end of season awards in Croft Park Social Club.
Players made a special award to long serving kit man Tony Kennedy.

Back Row L to R –
Mick Tait Manager, Adam Sadler Assistant Manager, Michael Tait, Simon Todd,
Robbie Dale, Mark Bell, Jack Norton, Kenny Boyle, John Alexander,
Darren Craddock, Gary Neasham Physio, Tony Kennedy Kitman.
Front Row L to R –
Shaun Reay, Adrian Webster, John Brackstone, Andrew Leeson, Chris McCabe,
Gareth Williams, Josh Gillies, Stephen Harrison, Ian Graham, Stephen Turnbull.
* Taken before start of 2009/10 Conference North season.

2008/09 –
Manager Harry Dunn on statue.
Back Row L to R –
Karl Richards, Jamie Poole, Paul Watson, Richard Pell partially hidden,
Anthony Hume, Gary Brown, Paul Farman, Mark Bell.
Front Row L to R –
Graham Fenton Assistant Manager/Player, Shaun Reay,
Gary Neasham Physio, Andrew Wright, Tony Kennedy Kitman.

* Taken on 30th December 2008 at Seaton Delaval Hall in build up to
FA Cup 3rd Round home tie with Blacburn Rovers.
Photo shoot was publicity for cup tie and also promote the fight
to save Seaton Delaval Hall.
Alex White (back row grey top) appears in this image but not the previous one.


Back Row L to R –
Alex White, Graham Fenton Player/Assistant Manager, Gary Brown,
Paul Watson, Shaun Reay, Robbie Dale, Jamie Poole, Chris McCabe,
Paul Farman, Andrew Leeson, Kenny Boyle.
Front Row L to R –
Gary Neasham Physio, Ged Dalton, Tony Kennedy Kitman kneeling,
Alex Gildea, Gareth Williams, Anthony Hume, Simon Todd.
* Taken at St James’ Park on Sunday 21st December 2008 before
Newcastle United beat Spurs 2-1 in Premier League.
• Players were guests of honour at game and presented to the crowd on the pitch
following 1-0 FA Cup 2nd Round win over AFC Bournemouth on 16th December.

Back Row L to R –
Tony Kennedy Kitman, Graham Fenton Player/Assistant Manager, Daniel Robinson,
Anthony Hume, Gary Brown, Richard Pell, Mark Bell, Robbie Dale, Phil Bell,
Peter Snowden, Paul Watson, Gary Neasham Physio, Harry Dunn Manager.
Front Row L to R –
Paul Watson, Simon Todd, Andrew Leeson, Chris McCabe,
Gareth Williams, Daniel Hindmarsh, Ged Dalton, Andrew Wright.
* Taken before start of 2008/09 Conference North season.

2007/08 –

Back Row L to R –
Graham Fenton Player/Assistant Manager, Susan Coates Physio, Michael Hedley,
Andrew Thompson, Robbie Dale, Adam Bartlett, Peter Snowden, Richard Forster,
Michael Coulthard, Gary Neasham Physio, Harry Dunn Manager, Tony Kennedy Kitman.
Front Row L to R –
Michael Maidens, Andrew Leeson, Ben Christensen, Chris McCabe, Scott Bell,
Gareth Williams, Christian Graham, Richard Hodgson, Kenny Boyle.
*Taken before start of 2007/08 Conference North season.

2006/07 –
Back Row L to R –
Graham Fenton Player/Assistant Manager, Robbie Dale, Christian Graham,
Andrew Leeson, Peter Snowden, Adam Bartlett, Chris McCabe,
Matthew Moffat, Harry Dunn Manager.
Front Row L to R –
Ben Christensen, Scott Bell, Gareth Williams, Richard Forster.
Mascots Unknown.
*Taken on Saturday 27th January 2007 at Croft Park before 2-2 Conference North
draw with Worcester City as part of Show Racism the Red Card Campaign.

Back Row L to R –
Tony Kennedy Kitman, Harry Dunn Manager, Liam Gildea, Richard Forster,
Robbie Dale, Adam Bartlett, Peter Snowden, Christian Graham,
Alex Gildea, Graham Fenton Player/Assistant Manager, Gary Neasham Physio.
Front Row L to R –
Dale Crawford, Scott Bell, Andrew Leeson, Simon Hanlon, Gareth Williams,
Craig Price, Chris McCabe, Ben Christensen, Anth Lowther, Paul Catto.
*Taken before start of 2006/07 season showing trophies won in previous 2005/06
Northern Premier League season – L to R – NPL Fair Play winners,
Premier League Champions trophy, NPL Challenge Cup & Peter Swales Memorial Shield.

2005/06 –Back Row L to R –
Simon Hanlon, Darren Cunningham Fitness Coach, Craig Price above him, Liam Gildea,
Robbie Dale, Brian Smith, Scott Bell, Andrew Leeson, Chris McCabe, NPL Official,
Peter Snowden, Craig Turns, Richard Forster partially hidden, Richard Addison behind
Gary Newsham Physio, Christian Graham, Simon Hanlon behind Martin Peace.
Front Row – L to R –
Harry Dunn Manager, Tony Kennedy Kitman, Anth Lowther, Paul Wintrip.
* Taken on Thursday 9th May 2006 following 1-0 win over Farrey Celtic at Croft Park
which sealed NPL Peter Swailes Memorial Shield which sealed a treble of NPL trophies.

L to R –
Gary Neasham Physio, Harry Dunn Manager, Robbie Dale,
Tony Kennedy Kitman in front of Chris McCabe, Andrew Leeson,
Richard Addison partially hidden by Scott Bell, Graham Fenton,
Peter Snowden, Andy Appleby, Martin Peace, Simon Hanson,
Darren Cunningham Fitness Coach, Craig Price, Liam Gildea, Alex Gildea,
Anth Lowther, Darren Wylam, Paul Wintrip, Gareth Williams, Craig Turns.
* Taken on Monday 1st May 2006 following 2-0 win over Ossett Town at
Croft Park which sealed NPL Challenge Cup.

L to R –
Tony Kennedy Kitman, Craig Turns, Liam Gildea,
Brian Smith partially hidden behind him, Chris McCabe hidden behind
Darren Cunningham Fitness Coach, Robbie Dale above him, Darren Wylam,
Craig Price above him, Richard Forster, Martin Peace, Jamie McGlen partially
hidden by trophy, Peter Snowden, Andrew Leeson, Alex Gildea partially hidden
by Anth Lowther, Simon Hanlon, Paul Wintrip, Gareth Williams,
Harry Dunn Manager, Gary Neasham Physio.
Front end row with children Graham Fenton Player/Assistant Manager,
* Taken on Saturday 29th April 2006 following 3-0 home win over 
Wakefield-Emley which sealed NPL Premier Division title.

2003/04 –Senior team in Back Row L to R –
Michael Manghan Physio in blue, Jamie Burt, Ian Dixon, 
Andrew Leeson, Chris Bell, Gareth Williams,
Stephen Richardson, Craig Turns, Paul Baker Manager, Michael Walker,
Graham Fenton, Anthony Woodhouse, Mark Atkinson, Christian Graham,
Richard Forster, Gareth McAlindon, Ian Crutwell,
Lee George, John Curran, Tony Kennedy Kitman &
Tom Wade Assistant Mananger both in blue.
*Taken at Croft Park in March 2004 showing the sides affiliated with club.
Features mens senior team and all junior teams players
and their managers & coaches.

Back Row L to R –
Michael Manghan Physio, Jamie Burt, Ian Dixon, Richard Forster, Colin Morton,
Anthony Woodhouse, Craig Turns, Michael Laws, Christian Graham,
Chris Bell, Tony Kennedy Kitman.
Front Row L to R –
Graham Fenton, Stephen Richardson, Andrew Leeson, Ian Crutwell,
Paul Baker Manager, Tom Wade Assistant Manager, Gareth Williams,
Gareth McAlindon, Mark Atkinson, Wayne Phillips.
*Taken in November 2003 after squad received new Nike tracksuits.

Back Row L to R –
Paul Baker Manager, Wayne Phillips, Chris Bell, Andrew Leeson, Ian Dixon,
Colin Morton, Anthony Woodhouse, Craig Turns, Richard Forster,
Michael Laws, Christopher Joyce, Kris Robertson behind Tony Kennedy Kitman,
Michael Mangan Physio,
Front Row L to R –
Ian Crutwell, Graham Fenton, Gareth McAlindon, Stephen Richardson,
Christian Graham, Mark Atkinson, Gareth Williams.
*Taken on Saturday 16th August 2003 before 2-0 home win over
Ashton United in opening game of  NPL season.

March 2003 –
L to R –
Phil Castiaux current Media Manager, Dave Varty, John Waterson, Terry Johnson,
Ronnie Scott, John ‘Eddie’ Alder, Ron Guthrie, Keith Houghton, Alan Shoulder,
Dave Clarke, Ian Mutrie, Jackie Marks Coach, Dave Addison, Tommy Dixon,
Steve ‘Jos’ Jones, Brian Slane Player/Manager, Mick Dagless, Gerry Day,
Billy Fenwick Trainer, Tony Platten current Chairman.
*Taken on Saturday 1st March 2003 at St James’ Park before Newcastle United’s
home game with Chelsea.
• To mark the 25th Anniversary of 77/78 FA Cup NUFC invited players & officials
to be guest of honour and presented them to crowd on pitch before kick off.

L to R –
Keith Houghton behind Jackie Marks, Tommy Dixon, Steve ‘Jos’ Jones,
Ron Guthrie behind Terry Johnson, Ian Mutrie, Dave Clarke, Dave Varty,
John ‘Eddie’ Alder, Brian Slane, Mick Dagless behind Alan Shoulder,
Gerry Day, John Waterson, Billy Fenwick Trainer, Dave Addison.

2001/02 –
Back Row L to R –
Gary Innes, Carl Pepper, Andy Martin, Justin Keegan, Paul Gilmore, Colin Morton,
Craig Cotterill, Graham Pepper, Stephen Stewart.
Front Row L to R –
Lee Scroggins, Paddy Little, Glen Robson, Ian Dixon, Gareth Williams behind
Scott Emmerson, Richard Forster, Michael Boddy, Craig Myhill, Craig Perry.
*Taken on Monday 16th July 2002 after a pre season friendly
1-1 home draw with Ayr United.

2000/2001 –
Back Row L to R –
John Charlton Manager, Tony Kennedy Kitman in front of Unknown Player,
Unknown Player, Unknown Player, Brian Rowe, Unknown Player, Andy Hay,
Terry Burke, Ian Chandler, Richard Forster, Glen Martin Physio.
Front Row L to R –
Unknown player, Anthony Skedd, Ian Dixon, Willie Moat,
Unknown player, Graeme Clark Assistant Manager.
*Taken on Saturday 5th August 2000 before 1-2 pre season 
home friendly defeat to Dunston Federation.

1999/2000 –
Back Row L to R –
Tony Kennedy Kitman, Glen Martin Physio, Stephen Locker, Matty Hysen, Craig Melrose,
Andrew Grainger, Terry Burke, Kris Leighton, Andy Blower, Ross Lumsden,
Derek Attwell, Nicky Evans, Lawrence Fox Trainer, Peter Harrison Assistant Manager.
Front Row L to R –
Michael Farrey, Glen Robson, Wayne Edgecumbe, Steve Hutchinson,
Mick Tait Manager, David Burt, Stephen Stewart, Graeme Hog, Richie Pitt.
*Taken on Thursday 12th August before 1-1 home pre season
friendly defeat with a Leeds United XI.

Front Row L to R –
Ross Lumsden, Richie Pitt, Wayne Edgecumbe, John Gamble,
Jon Atkinson, Lawrie Pearson.
*This unique image of present day players was super imposed onto the 1913/14 team
photo and used on the front cover of the 1999/2000 season match day programmes.
Present day players photo was taken in summer of 1999.

• If you know of a full squad version of the 1999 team photo please
get in touch via email so it can be added to this archive –
theblythspirit@hotmail.com

1998/99 –
Back Row L to R –
Glen Martin Physio, Steve Locker Ross Lumsden, Matty Hysen, Terry Burke,
Willie Moat, Andrew Rose, Nicky Peverill, John Gamble,
Tony Kennedy Kitman, Lawrence Fox Trainer.
Front Row L to R –
Michael Farrey, Steve Hutchinson, Anthony Skedd, Wayne Edgecumbe,
Michael Murr, Richie Pitt, Gary O’Hara, Ian Irving, Jon Atkinson.
Mascots unknown.
*Taken on Wednesday 5th May 1999 before Northumberland Senior Cup Final
at St James’ Park, lost 1-2 to Newcastle United Reserves.


Back Row L to R –
Tony Kennedy Kitman, John Gamble, Jon Atkinson, Ross Lumsden,
Matty Hysen, Terry Burke, Willie Moat, Peter Gamble, Glen Martin Physio.
Front Row L to R –
Ian Irving, Gary O’Hara, Steve Hutchinson, Wayne Edgecumbe, Michael Farrey,
Michael Murr, Stephen Locker, Tony Skedd, Richie Pitt.
*Taken on Saturday 17th April 1999 before 1-1 NPL home draw with Runcorn.
Taken from main stand at Croft Park showing the sides affiliated with club,
mens senior team and all junior teams players with their managers & coaches.

Back Row L to R –
John Gamble Player/Assistant Manager, Michael Farrey, Willie Moat, Steve Locker,
Kevin McGarrigle, Terry Burke, John Tinkler, Michael Casey, Anth Cole,
Allan Colledge, Glen Martin Physio.
Front Row L to R –
Mark Lee, Ian Irving, John Ramsey, Steve Hutchinson, Alan Shoulder Manager,
Steve Walker, Anthony Simpson, Mark Pattison, Tony Kennedy Kitman.
*Taken on Saturday 2nd August 1998 before 1-0 home win
over Lancaster City in opening game of NPL season.

1997/98 –Back Row L to R –
John Gamble, Tony Kennedy Kitman, Stephen Dann, Steve Jones, Willie Wilson,
Martin Pike, Kevin McGarrigle, Jon Atkinson, Glen Martin Physio.
Front Row L to R –
Unknown Mascot, Steve Walker, Willie Moat, Glen Renforth, Anth Cole Athony Skedd.
*Taken on Saturday 2nd May 1998 before final NPL game of the season,
a 1-1 home draw with Bamber Bridge.

Back Row L to R –
Kona Hislop, Tony Kennedy Kitman, Willie Moat, Anth Cole, Martin Pike,
John Gamble, Stephen Dann, Steve Jones, Willie Wilson, 
Glen Martin Physio, John Burridge Player/Manager,
Front Row L to R –
Jon Atkinson, Steve Walker, Michael Farrey, Mascots unknown,
Glen Renforth, Kevin McGarrigle, John Tinkler.
*Taken on Monday 27th April 1998 before Northumberland Senior Cup Final
at St James’ Park, lost 0-2 to Bedlington Terriers.

1996/97 –
Back Row L to R –
John Burridge Player/Manager, Phil Castiaux Press Officer, Mike Mitchell Chairman,
Stephen Locker, Anth Cole, John Gamble, Damian Henderson, Steve Adams,
Scott Sawyer Club Official, Paul Sanderson Physio, Bob Cotterill Club Official.
Front Row L to R –
Tony Kennedy Kitman, Don Page, Mark Todd, Michael Farrey, Stephan McGargle
behind mascot Matthew Biarrick, Steve Walker partially hidden by Willie Moat,
Joey McGiven, Richie Bond, John Broadhead Club Official.
*Taken on Thursday 1st May 1997 following 3-2, 2nd Leg home win over Runcorn in
NPL Presidents Cup Final at Croft Park that sealed a 4-2 aggregate victory.

• This version which appeared in the local weekly Courier newspaper contains
Keith Fletcher (back row next to John Burridge) and Willie Wilson
(front row next to Michael Farrey) both were missing in other photo.

Back Row L to R –
Tony Kennedy Kitman, Stephen Locker, Damian Henderson, John Gamble,
John Burridge Player/Manager, Willie Wilson, Stephan McGargle, Don Page,
Michael Farrey, Paul Sanderson Physio.
Front Row L to R –
Mark Todd, Richie Bond, Willie Moat, Peter Kirkham, Steve Walker, Joey McGiven.
*Exact date of photo is unknown but was after February 1997 
because Don Page signed in early February.

Back Row L to R –
Graham Curry, Stuart Young, Damian Henderson, Unknown Player, Damien Boyd,
Peter Kirkham, John Gamble, Stephen Raffell.
Front Row L to R –
Unknown Player, Michael Bean, Anth Cole, Michael Farrey, Stephen Locker,
Steve Pyle, Darren Nicholls, Richie Bond.
*Taken on Tuesday 1st August 1996 at Whitely Bay before pre season friendly.

1995/96 –L to R –
Richie Bond, Tony Kennedy Kitman, Steve Walker hidden behind Mark Telford,
Warren Teasdale holding juice bottle behind Paul O’Connor who is partially hidden by
Gary Hays arm, Tommy Ditchburn partially hidden by John Gamble’s arm,
Stephen Raffell partially hidden by John Sokoluk’s arm, Steve Adams
with Graham Curry hidden behind him.
*Taken on Saturday 11th November 1995 in away team changing room
following 0-2 FA Cup win away at 3rd Division Bury.


• Several version of this image appeared in local & national newspapers
the nextday following Blyth’s latest FA Cup giant killing.

1994/95 –
Back Row L to R –
James Bratt Senior Sales Rep for Unibond partially cropped out, Stephen Raffell,
Shaun Dunn, Jim Telford Chairman, Kevin Wolfe, Tommy Ditchburn, Peter Gardener,
Mark Telford, Paul Connor, Warren Teasdale, Graham Curry, Steve Houlden,
Dave Robertson Assistant Manager, Jason Jones,
Unknown NPL Official, Tony Kennedy Kitman, Bob Cotterill Official.
Front Row L to R –
Harry Dunn Manager, John Gamble, Lawrie Pearson, Steve Pyle, Gary Hays,
Steve Harkus, John Sokoluk, Paul Cooper, Richie Bond.
Mascots unknown – trophies NPL First Division title & NPL First Division Cup.
*Taken on Monday 15th May 1995 before the Northumberland Senior Cup Final
at St James’ Park, lost 2-6 to Newcastle United Reserves.

L to R –
John Sokoluk, Richie Bond, Paul O’Connor, John Gamble, Tommy Ditchburn,
James Bratt Senior Sales Rep for Unibond, Paul Cooper, Kevin Wolfe, Peter Gardner,
Steve Pyle, Graham Curry, Warren Teasdale partially hidden by trophy, Steve Houlden,
Laurie Pearson, Gary Hays, Mark Telford, Stephen Raffell, Jason Jones, Steve Harkus.
Mascots unknown.
*Taken on Monday 15th May 1995 before Northumberland Senior Cup Final at
St James’ Park where team was presented with the NPL First Division trophy
following league title win at Harrogate Town on Saturday 6th May.

Back Row L to R –
Paul Cooper, Warren Tesdale, John Gamble, Paul O’Connor, Stephen Raffell,
Graham Curry,  Mark Cameron, Jason Jones.
Front Row L to R –
Richie Bond, John Sokoluk, Gary Hays, Mark Telford, Steve Pyle, Laurie Pearson.
Mascot with trophy is unknown.
*Taken on Wednesday 3rd May 1995 following home 4-2 win in 2nd Leg of
NPL First Division League Cup which sealed a 5-2 aggregate victory.

Back Row L to R –
Tony Kennedy Kitman, Jason Jones, Tommy Ditchburn, Warren Teasdale,
Paul O’Connor, John Gamble, Kevin Wolfe, Graham Curry, Paul Cooper.
Front Row L to R –
Richie Bond, Mark Telford, Steve Pyle, unknown mascot, Steve Harkus,
Laurie Pearson, Gary Hays.
*Taken on Saturday 25th March 1995 before the 3-0
home NPL win over Fleetwood.

Back Row L to R –
Tony Kennedy Kitman, Dave Robertson Physio, Stephen Raffell, Warren Teasdale,
John Gamble, Paul O’Connor, Tommy Ditchburn, Kevin Wolfe, Jason Jones,
Steve Harkus, Graham Curry, Paul Cooper, Harry Dunn Manager,
Gerry Jones Unibond League Referee’s Secretary.
Front Row L to R –
James Bratt Senior Sales Rep for Unibond, Richie Bond, Glen Maxwell Mascot,
Steve Pyle, Laurie Pearson Gary Hays, Steve Houlden.
*Taken on Saturday 22nd April 1995 before the 2-1 home NPL win over
Workington, presentation made for being March team of the Month.

Back Row L to R –
John Broadhead club official, Unknown player, Stephen Raffell, Shaun Dunn,
Unknown player,  John Gamble, Warren Teasdale, Stephen Plaskett, Glen Renforth,
Paul Gough, Unknown player, Simon Smith.
Front Row L to R –
Mark Telford, Harry Dunn Manager, Gary Hays, Steve Pyle, unknown mascot,
John Sokoluk, Richie Bond, Don Peattie, Tony Kennedy Kitman.
*Taken on Saturday 30th July 1994 following 0-1 home defeat
to Hamilton Academicals in pre season friendly.

1993/94 –Back Row L to R –
Dave Robertson Physio, Dave Holland Club Official, Keith Mills, Craig Liddle,
Don Peattie, John Holvey, Dave Hallam. Paul O’Connor, Shaun Dunn, Warren Teasdale,
Steve Raffell, Peter Feenan Manager, Jim Telford Chairman.
Front Row L to R –
Kevin Caizley, Mickey English, Gary Hays, Tony Burgess, Steve Pyle,
Unknown mascot, Tony Kennedy Kitman
*Taken on Tuesday 26th April 1994 at Croft Park before 1-0 win
over Blue Star in Northumberland Senior Cup Final.

Back Row L to R –
Tommy Hedley Official, Thomas Halliday Official, Dave Robertson Assistant Manager,
Keith Mills, Mark Cameron, Warren Teasdale, Steve Raffell, Paul Connor, Craig Liddle,
Dave Hallam, Gary Hays, Unknown Physio, Tony Kennedy Kitman, Bob Cotterill Official.
Front Row L to R –
Mickey English, Jim Harland Club Media Official, Gary Middleton, Mark Telford,
Dave Holland Official, Peter Feenan Manager, Jim Telford Chairman, Don Peattie,
Steve Pyle, Tony Burgess, Darren Palmer.
*Taken before 1993/94 Northern League started, shield is from Beamish Tournament
played during the summer at the museum featuring local sides.

Back Row L to R –
Unknown player wearing tracksuit top, Dave Hallam, Keith Mills,
Unknown player wearing tracksuit top, Unknown goalkeeper, Mark Cameron,
Warren Teasdale, Stephen Raffell, Craig Liddle.
Front Row L to R –
Unknown player wearing tracksuit top, Steve Pyle, Michael English, Tony Burgess,
Gary Middelton, Gary Hays, Graham McDonald.
*Taken on Saturday 25th July 1983 before 1-1 draw with Airdrieonians
in pre season friendly at Croft Park.

1992/93 –Back Row L to R –
Keith Mills, Craig Liddle, Don Peattie, Peter Gardener, Warren Teasdale,
Stephen Raffell, Steve Pyle.
Front Row L to R –
Mark Telford, Darren Nicholls, Gary Middleton, Stephen Plaskett,
Graham McDonald, Gary Hays.
*Taken Saturday 10th April 1993 before 4-2 Northern League
home win over Chester-le-Street.

1993 –
Back Row L to R –
Eddie Turney, Tommy Reay, Jackie Hogg, Arthur Sowden,
Eddie Ramsey, Norman Penrose.
Front Row L to R –
Jackie Turney, Jimmy Turney, Billy Fenwick.
*Taken at a reunion for the 1950’s Blyth players.

Back Row L to R –
Dave Robertson Asstant Manager/Physio, Ronnie Walton Manager, Stephen Raffell,
Warren Teasdale, Danny Wheatley, Peter Gardener, Craig Liddle, Paul Leavey,
Kieth Mills, Steve Pyle, Nigel Walker Player/Assistant Manager.
Front Row L to R –
Graham McDonald, Gary Hays, Gary Middleton, Neil Howie, Stephen Plaskett,
Darren Nichols, Phil Mason, Don Peattie.
*Taken Saturday 7th November 1992 before 2-1 Northern League home win
over West Auckland. Taken ahead of FA Cup 1st Round game to be used in
local paper feature on the game.

April 1992 – Back Row L to R –
Gerry Day, John ‘Eddie’ Alder, Steve Carney, Dave Clarke, Ronnie Scott,
David Varty, John Waterson, Keith Houghton, Paul Ross.
Front Row L to R –
John Evans, Terry Johnson, Steve ‘Jos’ Jones, Alan Shoulder, Mick Dagless,
Ian Mutrie, Rob Carney.
*Taken on Thursday 30th April 1992 at Croft Park.
A Blyth 77/78 XI beat a Select XI 3-1 in a Memorial/Charity match for
the late former Spartan Dave Mitchenson. Game was organised by Les Mutrie.

1992/93 –
Back Row L to R –
Dave Robertson Assistant Manager/Physio, Nigel Saddington, Don Peattie, Paul Jeffries,
Peter Gardener, Craig Liddle, Stephen Raffell, Warren Teasdale,
Bob Cotterill club official, Bill Lowery club official.
Front Row L to R –
Tony Kennedy Kitman, Darren Nicholls, Gary Middleton, Nigel Walker,
Ronnie Walton Manager, Keith Mills, Stephen Plaskett, David Scope, Gary Hays.
*Taken Saturday 15th August 1992 before 2-1 Northern League home win over
Brandon United. Trophies are JR Cleator Cup won 12/8/1992, Northern League Cup
& Northumberland Senior Cup won the previous 91/92 season.

1987/88 –
Back Row L to R –
Dave Clarke Assistant Manager/Player, Steve Carney, Jimmy Harrison, Gary Nicholson,
Kevin Berry, Brian Hayes, Nigel Walker, Craig Mordue, Alan Walker, Steve Pyle,
Phil Leaver, Peter Cartwright, Chris Tate Physio, Jim Pearson Manager.
Front Row L to R –
Neil Howie, Steve Baxter, Tony McFadden, Paul Walker, Dave Varty.
*Taken before the 1987/88 Northern League season started.

1986/87 –Back Row L to R –
Alan Walker, Jimmy Harrison, Chris Scott, John Brownlie, Phil Leaver, Ray Blackhall.
Front Row L to R –
Chris Tate Physio, Mike Turnbull Club Development Manager, Jim Pearson Manager,
Jim Turney Chairman, G. Robinson Chief Executive Mercantile BS,
J. Dickson Development Manager Mercantile BS,
George Watson Club Secretary, Fred Turnbull Assistant Manager.
Front Row L to R –
Steve Baxter, Steve ‘Jos’ Jones, Tony McFadden,
Tony Dawson, Peter Cartwright, Ronan Liddane.
*Taken during the 1986/87 as publicity for the club new shirt
sponsorship deal with Mercantile Building Society.
• Photo taken by Margaret Eagle of Tynephoto, Bedlington in the Croft Park
Social Club, only ever appeared in the local Courier Newspaper.

Back Row L to R –
Fred Turnbull  Assistant Manager, Tony McFadden, John Brownlie, Tony Dawson,
Ronan Liddane, Phil Leaver, Paul Walker, Kevin Berry, Peter Cartwright,
Chris Scott, Jim Pearson Manager.
Front Row L to R –
Dave Clarke, Gary Middleton, Ray Blackhall, Steve ‘Jos’ Jones,
Alan Walker, Steve Baxter, Richard Hartiss.
*Taken before the 1986/87 Northern League season started.

1985/86 –Back Row L to R –
Phil Leaver, Tony Dawson, Ronan Liddane, Dave Clarke, Alan Walker,
Kevin Berry, Jimmy Harrison, John Brownlie.
Front Row L to R –
Steve Baxter, Dave Buchanan, Tony McFadden, Ray Blackhall,
Peter Cartwright, Paul Walker.
*Taken Saturday 8th April 1986 before 3-0 Northern League
home win over Crook Town.
• Image only ever appeared on the Coal News, a National Coal Board
magazine which featured an article on Blyth players and officials
who worked in the Coal industry.
L to R –
Alan Walker, Peter Cartwright, Steve Baxter, Tony Dawson, Paul Hedley, Tony McFadden,
Jim Turney Chairman, Ray Blackhall, Warren Pearson partially hidden by Blackhall,
Ronan Liddane partially hidden by Mickey Taylor,
Tony Wilder Universal Building Society, Chris Guthrie partially
hidden by  Paul Walker, Unknown partially hidden by Dave Clarke,
Jimmy Harrison, Dave Buchanan (arms folded).
*Taken Tuesday 6th August 1985 before 0-4 home pre season 
friendly defeat by Northampton Town.
• Chairman Jim Turney received sponsorship cheque from
Tony Wilder Universal Building Society General Manager
having renewed their deal for a fourth successive year.

1984/85 –
Back Row L to R –
Ron Guthrie, Dave Varty, Steve Carney, Ian Mutrie, Ronnie Scott, Rob Carney,
Steve ‘Jos’ Jones, Alan Walker, Dave Mitchenson.
Front Row L to R –
John Waterson, Terry Johnson, Tommy Dixon, Dave Clarke,
John ‘Eddie’ Alder, Alan Shoulder.
*Taken on Tuesday 6th November 1984 before Tommy Dixon’s Testimonial
game against Newcastle United XI.

Back Row L to R –
Chris Tate Physio, Alan Walker, Paul Grigg, Steve Jones, Bobby Scaife, Dave Dixon,
Peter Robinson, Dave Callaghan, Steve Baxter, Peter Feenan Manager.
Front Row L to R –
John Stirk, Colin Chambers, Tony McFadden, Dave Clarke,
Geoff Hart, Paul Walker, Peter Cartwright.
*Taken before start of the 1984/85 Northern League season.

1983/43 –
Back Row L to R –
Mick Dagless Manager, Ian Chester, Tony McFadden, Peter Robinson, Alan Walker,
Ian Mutrie, Dave Clarke, Terry Johnson, Steve Baxter, Geoff Hart, John Stirk.
Front Row L to R –
Unknown Dryboroughs official, Tommy Dixon
*Taken on Tuesday 22nd November 1983 at Croft Park training session where team
captain Tommy Dixon was presented with cheque from Northern League
sponsors Dryboroughs Brewery. League ran a goalscoring reward scheme which
Blyth won for the 6-2 home win over Gretna 3 days earlier.

1982/83 –
Left to Right –
Tony Britt Assistant Manager, John Connolly Player/Manager, Harry Dunn,
Bobby Scaife, Steve Baxter, Terry Johnson, Ian Chester, Alan Walker, Ian Mutrie,
Tommy Dixon, Peter Robinson, Dave Clarke, Pat Smith Physio.
*Taken on Saturday 30th April 1983 at Ironworks Ground, Tow Law.
• This unique image captures the players, officials & fans celebrating winning
a 4th consecutive Northern League title with an empathic 9-1 win.

Back Row L to R –
John Connolly Player Manager, Tony Britt Assistant Manager, Bobby Scaife, Alan Walker
Dave Clarke, Ian Mutrie, Dave Mitchenson, Peter Robinson, Pat Smith Physio.
Front Row L to R –
Phil Robson, Tommy Dixon, Geoff Hart, Harry Dunn, Steve Baxter, Terry Johnson.
*Taken on Saturday 29th January 1983 before 1-0 Northumberland Senior Cup
Quarter Final home win over Ashington.

Back Row L to R –
Brian Lintern, Jeff Peters, Peter Robinson, Paul Ross, Dave Clarke,
Dave Mitchenson, Bobby Scaife, Ian Mutrie, Geoff Hart, Don Robson.
Front Row L to R –
Keith Brown, Harry Dunn, Bob Elwell Manager, Tommy Dixon,
Paul Walker, Alan Walker.
*Taken on Tuesday 18th September 1982 before 0-0 home Northern League
draw with Consett. Trophies are JR Cleator Cup, Northern League title,
Northern League Cup & Northumberland Senior Cup.

Back Row L to R –
Paul Ross, Tommy Dixon, Dave Mitchenson, Geoff Hart, Alan Walker,
Bobby Scaife, Dave Clarke.
Front Row L to R –
John Duncan, Kevin Pugh, Terry Johnson, Harry Dunn, Jamie Scott, Keith Brown.
*Taken Thursday 29th July 1982 before pre season friendly
1-3 home defeat by Hearts of Midlothian.

1981/82 –Back Row L to R –
Brian Phillips, Paul Walker, Jeff Peters, Geoff Hart, Tommy Dixon with trophy,
Alan Walker, Ian Mutrie, unknown supporter, Harry Dunn, Paul Hedley,
Front Row L to R –
Keith Brown, Brian Lintern, Dave Mitchenson, Dave Clarke, unknown supporter.
*Taken Saturday 1st May 1982 at Croft Park following 4-1 win over
Whitley Bay which sealed a 3rd consectutive Northern League title.

Back Row L to R –
Stephen Grierson, Paul Ross, Tommy Dixon, Mickey Anderson, Keith Brown,
Alan Walker, Brian Coulson, Peter Embleton.
Front Row L to R –
Bill Rafferty, Harry Dunn, Dave Clarke, Unknown mascot, Terry Johnson,
Paul Walker, Jimmy Cochrane.
*Taken Tuesday 1st September 1981 before first home league 
game of the new season, 0-0 draw with Crook Town.
• Players wearing new the Le Coq Sportif kit for that season.

Back Row L to R –
Ron Guthrie, Peter Manners, Tommy Dixon, Paul Ross,
Dave Mitchenson, Alan Walker, Paul Walker, Keith Brown.
Front Row L to R –
Jimmy Cochrane, Terry Johnson, Dave Clarke with unknown mascot,
Billy Rafferty, Alan Barker, Harry Dunn.
*Taken Tuesday 28th July 1981 before home friendly 
with Hearts of Midlothian, lost 1-3.

1980/81 –
Back Row L to R –
Gerry Hogan, Stuart Greison, Gordon Larkin, Ron Guthrie, Dave Clarke,
Stephen Golightly, Dave Mitchenson, Terry Boylan.
Front Row L to R –
Les Mutrie, Geoff Fell, Alan Walker, Dave Varty, Terry Johnson,
Tommy Waugh, Alan Barker.
*Taken on Saturday 16th August 1980 before opening game of
Northern League season, a 0-2 home defeat by Consett.


1979/80 –
L to R –
Stuart Grierson, Les Mutrie, Ian Diamond, Terry Johnson, Jimmy Nesbitt,
Tommy Dixon, Paul Ross, Dave Mitchenson, Peter Davies, Alan Walker.
*Taken on Tuesday 29th April 1980 in Croft Park changing room following
2-1 win over West Auckland that sealed the Northern League title

Back Row L to R –
Jimmy Nesbitt, John Waterson, Les Mutrie, Alan Walker, Dave Mitchenson,
Tommy Dixon, Ray Young, Ron Guthrie.
Front Row L to R –
Peter Davies, Terry Johnson, Dave Clarke, Mick Dagless, Dave Varty, Brian Burlinson.
*Taken Saturday 19th April 1980 before 1-0 home win
over North Shields in Northern League.

Back Row L to R –
John Waterson, Tommy Dixon, Alan Walker, Les Mutrie, Dave Mitchenson,
Paul Ross, Ray Young.
Front Row L to R –
Peter Davies, Ron Guthrie, Brian Burlinson, Jimmy Nesbitt, Dave Clarke,
Mick Dagless, Ian Diamond, Dave Varty.
*Taken Saturday 5th April 1980 before 6-1 Northern League home
win over North Shields.

Back Row L to R –
Jackie Marks Manager, Les Mutrie, Ron Guthrie, Paul Ross, Keith Houghton,
Dave Mitchenson, Ray Young, Peter Faulkener,
Peter Flaherty Assistant Manager, Pat Smith Physio.
Front Row L to R –
Dave Varty, Alan Walker, John Waterson, Dave Clarke, Mick Dagless,
Tommy Dixon, Steve Carney.
*Taken in September 1979 just before Steve Carney joined Newcastle United.

Back Row L to R –
Dave Varty, Paul Ross, Keith Houghton, Les Mutrie,
Dave Mitchenson, Alan Walker.
Front Row L to R –
Bobby Doig, Rob Hulse, Dave Clarke, Mick Dagless, Peter Faulkener.
*Taken Saturday 11th August 1979 before 2-0 home win over
Maidstone United in pre season friendly.

1978/79 –
L to R –
Dave Clarke, Alan Walker, Mick Dagless, Paul Ross, Les Mutrie, Jackie Marks Manager,
Terry Johnson, Peter Davies, John Waterson, Dave Varty, Steve Carney.
*Taken in Social Club on Tuesday 1st May 1979, with players & manager showing
the trophies and awards won over the 77/78 & 78/79 seasons.
Dave Clarke is holding his prize as Non League Goalkeeper of the Year.
Other trophies include Debenhams Cup, Northern League Cup, Northern League Runners Up Cup,
Non League Team of the Team, Highest Scorers Trophy, Vaux Team of the Year, Tyne Tees Team of the Year, FA Team of the Year, an FA Cup Award, plus pennants saluting the run to 5th Round of FA Cup.

1977/78 –
Back Row L to R –
J.W Chandler Mayor of Blyth, Terry Day, Dave Varty, Gregg Heron,
Dave Clarke, Ian Mutrie, Terry Johnson, Steve ‘Jos’ Jones, Rob Carney,
Pat Smith Physio, Ron Guthrie (partially hidden), Billy Fenwick Trainer,
Brian Slane Player/Manager, Ronnie Scott.
Front Row L to R –
John Waterson, Tommy Dixon, Dave Addison, Alan Shoulder, Mick Dagless.
*Taken 7th March 1978 at the Coronation Club, Blyth during a Civic Reception
held by Borough of Blyth Valley in recognition of achievements in 77/78 FA Cup.

Back Row L to R –
Jackie Marks Coach/Assistant Manager, Ian Mutrie, Keith Houghton, Rob Carney,
Ronnie Scott, Tommy Dixon, Dave Addison, Steve Carney, Pat Smith Physio.
Middle Row L to R –
Ron Guthrie, Alan Shoulder, John Waterson, Brian Slane Player/Manager,
Terry Johnson, Dave Varty, Mick Dagless.
Front Row L to R –
Steve ‘Jos’ Jones, Terry Day, Dave Clarke, John ‘Eddie’ Alder.
*Taken during the cup run inside Croft Park’s Social Club.
* Probably the most famous and well known colour team photo. Picture appeared
in the programme for the FA Cup 5th Round Replay at James’ Park.

• This version taken at the same time but from an angle appeared in the
Evening Chronicle in the build up to the 5th Round Replay at St James’ Park.

• The image was also used on a Carlsberg billboard advert outside St James’ Park in 2000
attempting to draw Newcastle United supporters to Blyth games when Newcastle were playing away.

Back Row L to R –
Jackie Marks Coach/Assistant Manager, Rob Carney, Ian Mutrie, Tommy Dixon,
Keith Houghton, Ronnie Scott, Mick Dagless, Terry Day,
Brian Slane Player/Manager, Pat Smith Physio.
Front Row L to R –
Alan Shoulder, John ‘Eddie’ Alder, Terry Johnson, Dave Addison, Dave Clarke,
Ron Guthrie, Steve ‘Jos’ Jones, Dave Varty, Steve Carney.
*Taken during the cup run on Croft Park pitch.
• This image was used on the Blyth Spirit LP that was made to celebrate the cup run.

Back Row L to R –
Rob Carney, Ian Mutrie, Keith Houghton, Ronnie Scott, Ron Guthrie,
Tommy Dixon, John Waterson, Steve Carney.
Front Row L to R –
Dave Varty, Alan Shoulder, John ‘Eddie’ Alder, Dave Clarke,
Terry Johnson, Mick Dagless, Terry Day.
* Taken during the cup run inside the Croft Park Social Club.
• Image appeared in the Stoke City FA Cup 4th Round match programme.

Back Row L to R –
John ‘Eddie’ Ader, Steve Carney, Dave Clarke, Ronnie Scott,
Dave Varty, John Waterson.
Front Row L to R –
Steve ‘Jos’ Jones, Alan Shoulder, Mick Dagless,
Ian Mutrie, Rob Carney.
*Taken Saturday 10th December 1977 before 1-0 Northern League
home win over Durham City. 
• Game was Alan Shoulder’s club debut and
he scored the winner.

1976/77 –Back Row L to R –
Stuart Leeming, John Waterson, Tony Smith, Mick Morgan, Tommy Dixon,
Ronnie Scott, John Tones, Dave Murray.
Front Row L to R –
Micky Pink, Alan Gauden, Brian Slane, Mick Dagless, Ron Young.
*Taken Saturday 18th September 1976 before 3-3 Northern League
draw away at Evenwood.

1975/76 –Back Row L to R –
Alan Cruddace Assistant Player/Manager (partially cropped out), Kevin Wilson,
Stuart Leeming, Ronnie Scott, John Waterson, Tommy Dixon, Ian Harrison,
Mick Morgan, Gordon Smith, John Tones, Pat Smith Physio,
John ‘Eddie’ Alder, Graham Binks, Allan O’Neill Manager (partially cropped out).
Front Row L to R –
Micky Pink, Alan Gauden, Brian Slane, Mick Dagless, Tony Smith.
* Taken on Monday 3rd May 1976 at St James’ Park before 1-1
draw with North Shields in Northumberland Senior Cup Final.
• Image only ever appeared in the Rothmans Football News 1976 Annual.

L to R –
Pat Smith Physio, Allan O’Neill Manager, Mick Dagless, Micky Pink, John Waterson,
Tommy Dixon, Ian Nixon partially hidden, Ian Harrison, Mick Morgan behind
John ‘Eddie’ Alder, Alan Gauden, Tony Smith (above Gauden),
John Tones, Gordon Smith, Brian Slane.
*Taken on Wednesday 28th April 1976 in Croft Park dressing
after Northern League title had been retained for
with 4-0 win over Durham City.

1974/75 – Back Row L to R –
Allan O’Neill Manager, Billy Fenwick Trainer, Alan Cruddace Player/Assistant Manager,
Ronnie Phillipson, Tommy Dixon, Mick Morgan, Ronnie Scott, Micky Pink,
Ian Nixon, Tony Smith, Pat Smith Physio.
Front Row L to R –
Micky Pink, Gerry Donoghue, Brian Slane, John ‘Eddie’ Alder,
Mick Dagless, Gordon Smith.
*This rare colour team photo was taken before the final home game
and shows both trophies won that season.
• Image only ever appeared on the cover of the 1st 1975/76
Rothmans Football News Annual magazine.

Back Row L to R –
Alan Cruddace Player/Assistant Manager, Ronnie Phillipson, Tony Smith, Gordon Smith,
Mick Morgan, John ‘Eddie Alder’, Ronnie Scott, Tommy Dixon. Allan O’Neill Manager.
Front Row L to R –
Pat Smith Physio, Mick Lister, Gerry Donoghue, Brian Slane, Mick Dagless, Micky Pink.
*Taken on Saturday 29th march 1975 at Willington’s Hall Lane Ground
before 1-0 win on Easter Saturday.
• Taken by County Durham based Galdon Photographers, only ever
appeared in the Rothmans Football News magazine.

Back Row L to R –
Dave Burowski, Alan Cruddace, John Lang, Ronnie Phillipson, Micky Pink,
Mick Third, Ronnie Scott, Alan O’Neill Manager.
Front Row L to R –
Mick Lister, Gordon Smith, John ‘Eddie’ Alder, Brian Slane, Mick Dagless,
Ian Nixon, Inset Gerry Donoghue.
*Taken Saturday 10th August 1974 before home friendly with Hartlepool United,
featured in the Preston North End FA Cup replay programme.

• This version was taken from a slightly different angle and included Physio Pat Smith on the left
of back row and an unknown ball boy in front row.

1971/72 –
Back Row L to R –
Ronnie Phillipson, Gordon Atkinson, Mick Lister, Brian Slane, Bobby Varvill.
Middle Row L to R –
Robin Fallon partially hidden, Dave McMemeny, Alan Watson.
Frot Row L to R –
Des Jardine, Ian Nixon John ‘Eddie’ Alder, Gordon Smith, Alan Young.
*Taken on Saturday 15th January 1972 in Croft Park dressing room
following 2-2 FA Cup 3rd Round draw over Reading.

Back Row L to R –
Billy Fenwick Trainer, Gordon Atkinson, Gordon Smith, Bob Varvill, Billy Romaines,
Allan Young, Ronnie Phillipson, Robin Fallon.
Front Row L to R –
Des Jardine, Dave McMenemy, Mickey Lister, John ‘Eddie’ Alder, Alan Taylor.
*Taken on Saturday 18th December 1971 at Whitby Town before
2-1 Northern League Cup 2nd Round replay win.

Back Row L to R –
Billy Romanies, Gordon Atkinson, Alan Watson, Bobby Varvill, Ronnie Scott,
Ronnie Phillipson, Gordon Smith.
Front Row L to R –
Des Jardine, Allan Young, Brian Slane, John ‘Eddie’ Alder, Micky Lister.
*Taken on Wednesday 13th October 1971 before 1-1 home draw with
Gateshead in Vaux Floodlight League game.
• Image appeared in the Reading away FA Cup 3rd Round Replay match programme.

Back Row L to R –
Alan Watson, Tony Short, Brian Slane, Allan Young, Ronnie Scott.
Front row L to R –
Ian Nixon, Michael Lister, John Evans, Gordon Smith.
*Taken on Saturday 16th July 1971 at Croft Park during pre season
training for the forthcoming new season.

1970/71 –
Back Row L to R –
Gordon Atkinson, Ronnie Scott, Brian O’Hara, John Robson, Harry Workman,
Jimmy Robson, Ronnie Phillipson.
Front row L to R –
Des Jardine, Allan Young, Brian Slane, John ‘Eddie’ Alder, Micky Lister.
*Taken on Saturday 22nd August 1970 at Croft Park before 3-2 win
over Willington in opening game of Northern League season.

1969/70 –
Back Row L to R –
Micheal Hind, Tom Ray, Alan Auld, Dick Patterson, Ronnie Scott, Ian Nixon,
Gordon Atkinson, Jackie Marks Manager.
Front Row L to R –
Ken Storey, John Robson, Peter Feenan Jnr, Des Jardine, Gordon Smith
*Taken at Croft Park before start of 69/70 Northern League season.

• This better quality version taken from an angle appeared in Newcastle Football Pink.

1968/69 –Back Row L to R –
Bill Oakley, Peter Feenan Jnr, Ronnie Scott, Mike Ingoe, George Little,
Neil Hetherington, Ian Watts.
Front Row L to R –
Michael Hind, John Evans, Ken Duffell, John ‘Eddie’ Alder, Des Jardine.
*Taken Saturday 7th September 1968 before 0-2 Northern League
home defeat to Shildon.

• Not the best quality image but only one from this season.
If you know of a better quality image please get in touch
via email so it can be added to this archive –
theblythspirit@hotmail.com

1967/68 –Back Row L to R –
Tony Knox Player/Manager, Alf Cleeve, Doug Bell, Peter Feenan Jnr.
Front Row L to R –
Tommy Orrick, Malcolm Peel, George Little.
*Taken in August 1967 at Croft Park following clubs win at the Annual
Whitley Bay Scottish Gala Week Five-a-Side competition.

Blyth Spartans ReservesBack Row L to R –
Neil Hetherington, Ken Dodd, Tom Spence, N. Hunter, J. Turnbull,
Albert Aiston, D. Hailes.
L to R –
Des Jardine, Anthony Britt, Nigel Cairns, B. King, J. Hogg.
*Taken at Croft Park on Monday 29th August 1967 before 1-0
Northern Combination League win over Shankhouse.

1966/67 –Back Row L to R –
John ‘Eddie’ Alder, Stewart Graham, Jackie Embleton, Malcom Peel,
Jimmy Dees, George Little, Neil Hetherington.
Front Row L to R –
Tommy Orrick, Doug Bell, Peter Flaherty, John Evans, Gordon Smith.
*Taken at Croft Park on Saturday 20th August 1966 before 1-5
Northern League defeat to Tow Law on opening day of season.

Back Row L to R –
Jim Turney Manager, Miller, Holliday, Ken Dodd, Stewart Graham, Malcolm Peel,
George Little, Alf Cleave, Dick Waters, Billy Fenwick Trainer.
Middle Row L to R –
Brian Doughty, Tommy Orrick, Cairns, Ray Smith, Gordon Smith.
Front Row L to R –
Spry, John ‘Eddie’ Alder, Tulip, Jackie Embleton, Hodgson, Easton, Thompson, Roll.
*Taken at Croft Park on Saturday 8th August 1966 before annual
Green v. Whites pre season practise match.

Blyth Spartans Reserves
Back Row L to R –
Tom Spence, Ian Craggs, Peter Feenan Jnr, Alan Saunders, Anthony Britt, B. Halliday.
Front Row L to R –
Jackie Embleton, Slade, Albert Aiston, Over, John ‘Eddie’ Alder.
*Taken at Croft Park, before 3-0 North Combination win over
North Shields on Saturday 19th November 1966.

1965/66 –
Blyth Spartans Reserves
Back Row L to R –
Neil Hetherington, B. Halliday, Tom Ray, Alf Cleave, A. Frisby, Michael Hind, C. Oliver.
Front Row L to R –
Slade, Ken Dodd, Brian Turnbull, A. Wall, Albert Aiston.
*Taken at Croft Park, date unknown, several first team players featured for
the Reserves that day. Reserves played in the Northern Combination League.

Blyth Spartans First team
Back Row L to R –
Stewart Graham, Ian Craggs, Tom Baird, Malcolm Pell, Neil Hetherington, George Little.
Front Row L to R –
Eddie Hewitt, Michael Hind, Mickey Pink, Doug Bell, Tommy Orrick.
*Unknown when & where this photo was taken but it appeared in the
March 1966 edition of the Northern Football Magazine.

1964/65 –Back Row L to R –
J. Simpson, Jackie Embleton, Edwin Kelly, Mike Ingoe,
J. Thompson, Neil Hetherington.
Front Row L to R –
A. Easton, Jim Campbell, Ken Duffell, W. Emmerson, D. Dixon.
*Taken at Croft Park on Saturday 2nd January 1965 before 3-2 Northern League
win over Shildon, only 2nd home win of season and 3rd in league so far!

Back Row L to R –
T. Atkins, B. King, D. Nixon, J. Simpson, D. Peterson, G. Nicholls, Mike Ingoe,
Neil Hetherington, J. Bell, N. Smith, Jackie Embleton.
Front Row L to R –
D. Ancrum, A. Easton, A. Simmons, A. White, J. Robson, Ken Duffell, A. McCarton,
B. Davison, R. Writson, R. Thompson, Ken Dodd.
*Taken at Croft Park on Saturday 10th August 1964 before annual
Green v. Whites pre season practise match

Blyth Spartans ReservesBack Row L to R –
J. Bell, J. Potts, Talbot, F. Kidd, A. Gray, R. Watts
Front Row L to R –
B. Megson, J. Slater, M. Pink, K. Dodd, A. Hodgson.
*Taken at Croft Park on October 1964, no other information is known.

1963/64 –Back Row L to R –
Jackie Embleton, Stephen Reay, Ray Whitehead, Watson, James Cain, Robson Shields,
Front Row L to R –
Lew Nainby, Ray Smith, Don Robson, Alan Smith, Ron Laverick
*Taken at Croft Park on Saturday 24th August 19643 before 4-4 draw
in opening game of new North Eastern League season.

1962/63 –
Back Row L to R –
Jackie Embleton, William Brown, Les Oliver, Ray Whitehead, Eric Raffo, James Cain
Front Row L to R –
B. Glendenning, Harry Clark, Don Robson, Alan Smith, Jackie Hogg.
*Taken at Croft Park on Saturday 18th August 1962 before 1-3
Nothern Eastern League defeat to Consett on opening day of the season.

1961/62 –

Back Row L to R –
Frank Stamper, Bill Brown, Harry Mills, Gordon Davis, Ray Ovington, Ralph Pringle
Front Row L to R –
Turner, Harry Clark, Brian Harbertson, Moody, Spence
*Taken at Croft Park on Saturday 26th August 1961 before 2-2
Northern Counties League draw with Horden Colliery Welfare.

Back Row L to R –
Paddy McNally, Tommy Reay, Bill Brown, Harry Mills, Ray Ovington, Gordon Davis.
Front Row L to R –
Norman Mitchell, Harry Clark, George Willis, Frank Turney, Bob Nickalls.
*Taken at Croft Park on Saturday 26th August 1959 before 2-2
Northern Counties League draw with Horden Colliery Welfare.

1959/60 –
Blyth Spartans ReservesBack Row Lto R –
Brian Carolin, Alan Simmons, Neil Hethrington, John Hunter,
Jackie Hindmarsh, Clarrie Turney.
Front Row L to R –
Louis Nainby, Frank Turney, Brian Harbertson, Eddie Kelly, Jackie Hogg.
*Taken at Croft Park but exact date is unknown. Reserves played in the Northern Alliance.

1958/59 –

Back Row L to R –
Gordon Davis, Tommy Reay, Harry Mills, Ray Ovington, Bill Brown Frank Stamper.
Front Row L to R –
Norman Mitchell, Harry Clark, George Willis, Frank Turney, Bob Nickalls.
* Taken at Croft Park on Wednesday 29th April 1959 before 3-0 Midland League
win over Stockton in final game of season.
4 days earlier had won Northumberland Senior Cup
at SJP hence team photo with cup.

• I have seen a colour version of this photo but still trying to track it down.


Back Row L to R –
Tommy Reay, Gordon Davis, Ray Ovington, Harry Mills, Bill Brown, Frank Stamper.
Front Row L to R –
Bob Nickalls, Harry Clark, George Willis, Frank Turney, Bill Haley.
*Taken at Croft Park on Thursday 1st January 1959 before 2-2
Northern Counties League draw with Ashington.

Back Row L to R –
Eric Rafflo, George Bell, Frank Stamper, Harry Mills, Bill Brown, Billy Fenwick Trainer.
Front Row L to R –
George Anderson, Harry Clark, Tommy Hogan, Edwin Kelly, William Haley.
*Taken at Croft Park on Saturday 30th August 1958 before 3-0
Midland League win over Denaby Town.

1955/56 –Back Row L to R –
Eddie Ramsey, Tommy Reay, Dougie Wright, George Tubman,
Ray ‘Dickie’ Ovington, George Sharp.
Front Row L to R –
Harry Scott, Johnny Langland, Gavin Gair, Eddie Turney, William Haley.
*Taken at Croft Park on Boxing Day 1955 before 5-2 North Eastern League win over Ashington.

Back Row L to R –
J. Lynn, Eddie Ramsey, Arthur Sowden, John Inglis, Ray ‘Dickie’ Ovington, Tommy Reay.
Front Row L to R –
Billy Linacre, Johnny Langland, M. Emmerson, J. McHale, William Haley.
*Taken at Croft Park on Saturday 1st December 1956 before 2-4 North Eastern League
defeat to Middlesbrough Reserves. Unknown why black arm bands were worn.

Back Row L to R –
Eddie Ramsay, J. Lynn, Arthur Sowden, John Inglis, Dickie Ovington,
Dougie Wright Secretary/Manager, Tommy Reay, Frank Turney.
Front Row L to R –
Billy Linacre, Johnny Langland, M. Emmerson, J. McHale, William Haley.
*Taken at Croft Park on Saturday 13th October 1956 before 0-0
North Eastern League draw with Darlington Reserves.

Back Row L to R –
Jim Turney, J. Evans Kitman, Tommy Reay, George Sharp, John Clark, Eddie Ramsay,
Dickie Ovington, Dougie Wright, R. Roberts Trainer.
Front Row L to R –
M. Johnson, Frank Turney, Peter Feenan Snr, Bob Middleton Chairman,
Eddie Turney, Gavin Gair.
*Taken at Croft Park on Saturday 3rd September 1955 before 2-3
North Eastern League defeat to North Shields.
• Photo taken to display the NEL Challenge Cup that had been
won 3 days earlier. Beat Spennymoor United 4-0 at home in
2nd leg of Final to win Trophy with 4-1 aggregate.
Final was held over from the previous season,
the trophy on left is the Northumberland Senior Cup won in 54/55.

1954/55 –Back Row L to R –
Tommy Reay, Dougie Wright, John Clark, Eddie Ramsey,
Arthur Sowden, Dickie Ovington.
Front Row L to R –
R. Wilson, Frank Turney, Jimmy Turney, Eddie Turney, Gavin Gair.
*Taken at Croft Park on Saturday 19th March 1955 before 5-2
home win over Sunderland Reserves in North Eastern League.

Back Row L to R –
Eddie Ramsey, Arthur Sowden, Tommy Reay, John Clark, Dickie Ovington,
Jimmy Turney, Eddie Turney (wearing coat).
Front Row L to R –
Harry Scott, Peter Feenan Snr, Jack Hogg, Charlie Weatherspoon, Gavin Gair.
*Taken at Croft Park on Saturday 4th December 1954 before 4-3
North Eastern League win over Carlisle United Reserves.

1952/53 –
L to R-
Norman Penrose, Billy Fenwick, Frank Turney, Harry Scott,
Jim Turney, Gavin Gair, Arthur Sowden, Sammy McLaughlin,
John Allison, Charlie Ferguson Coach in hat.
*Taken on Wednesday 19th December 1952 on Birkenhead promenade as players
take a walk before that nights FA Cup round Replay at Tranmere Rovers.


Back Row L to R –
Jimmy Turney, John Allison, Frank Turney, Eddie Turney,
Sammy McLaughlin, Arthur Sowden, James Kerr.
Front Row L to R –
Matt Middleton, Norman Penrose, Lloyd, Arthur Sowden (hands grasped),
George Sharp, Gavin Gair, Kerr, Harry Scott, Billy Fenwick.
Coach Charlie Ferguson with back to players.
*Taken at on Friday 14th December 1952 at 56 William Street, Blyth.
The house was owned by the club and used as it’s base for team meetings etc.
• That night coach Charlie Ferguson give a team talk before the next days
FA Cup 2nd Roud tie with Tranmere Rovers at Croft Park.
(From April 1950 until May 1953 the team was picked
by the commititee and the coach trained the players).

Back Row L to R –
Norman Penrose, Ken Hirst, John Allison, Sammy McLachlan,
Arthur Sowden, James Kerr.
Front Row L to R –
Jim Turney, Billy Fenwick, Matt Middleton, R.W Kerr, Gordon Luke.
*Taken at Croft Park on Saturday 23rd August 1952 before 3-0 North Eastern League
win over Consett in opening game of season.

1951/52 –Back Row L to R –
Norman Penrose, Arthur Sowden, Ken Hirst, Matt Middleton,
Sammy McLachlan, George Sharp.
Front Row L to R –
Jim Turney, Billy Fenwick, Thomson, Lloyd, Gavin Gair.
*Taken at Portland Park, Ashington on Saturday 1st March 1952 following
Northumberland Senior Cup Semi Final draw with Ashington.

1953/54 –Back Row L to R –
Tom Blenkinsop Player/Manager, Eddie Ramsay, A. Carter, Ken Hirst,
K. Finlay, Tommy Reay.
Front Row L to R –
Harry Scott, Jim Turney, Billy Fenwick, Eddie Turney, Gavin Gair
*Taken at Croft Park on Saturday 26th September 1953 before 2-1 win
over Gateshead Reserves in a North Eastern League game.

1949/50 –

Back Row L to R –
White, Joe Wilson, Joe Thompson, Norman Robson, Law, Tommy Reay.
Front Row L to R –
George Harvey, Norman Penrose, Ramsey, Proudlock, Gavin Gair
* Taken on Saturday 5th May 1950 following 3-3 North Eastern League draw at
Middlesbrough Reserves in final league game of season.
• Team wore the green & white quarter shirts first worn after club reformed for 1946/47,
also used same shirts in 47/48 before returning to stripes for the 48/49 season.

Back Row L to R –
J.T. Leonard, George Harvey, J. Holliday, R. Ramsay, H. Hawkins, R. Farington.
Front Row L to R –
Norman Penrose, Jimmy Clough, Bob Anderson, T. White, Gordon Luke.
*Taken at Croft Park on Saturday  27th August 1949 before 6-1
North Eastern League win over Annfield Plain.

1948/49 –Back Row L to R –
E. Appleby, J. Allison, J. Clough, J. Wilson, J. Holliday, K. Blake, R. Ramsay,
G. Harvey, R. Millard, J. Leonard.
Front –
Norman Robson
*Taken at Croft Park on Saturday 21st August 1948 before 3-0
North Eastern League win over Horden Colliery Welfare in
opening game of new season.

1947/48 –

Back Row L to R –
J. Barnes, J. Liddell, R. Gardner, Harry Mills, G. Tapkin, G. Hall.
Front Row L to R –
Norman Roddam, Eddy Barber, T. Leonard, E. Appleby, J. Robson.
*Taken at Croft Park on Wednesday 27th August 1947 before 1-1
North Eastern League draw with North Shields.

1939/40 –*Taken at Croft Park in front of main stand in August 1393 before 
annual pre season Green v. Whites game.
• Only 3 people are identified; long serving former player and club trainer
Billy Lawton on far left of middle row wearing the hat.
Opposite end to him, far right, is Committee man George Oliver.
3rd from left of front row is defender Ken Rochester.

• Please get in touch via email if you can identify any players or officials in this photo –
theblythspirit@hotmail.com

1935/36 –

Back Row L to R –
Tom Carnaby, Charlie Metcalfe, George Wolf, Tom Freeman, William Laidler
Middle Row L to R –
W. Lawton Trainer, T. Yorston Director, Robert Turner, John Knox,
Capt J.W. Heatley Director, Emanuel ‘Manny’ Sharpless, M. Wood Director,
Councillor J.W. Clark Director, Ernie Hoffman Manager.
Front Row L to R –
George Hickman, Ernie Park, W. Allen Vice-chairman, William Readman,
E. Wright Chairman, Jack Kennedy, William Dexter,
Councillor T. Stephenson Director,  Councillor W. Marshall Director.
*Taken on Saturday 9th May 1936 to mark the winning of the North Eastern League title,
before the Senior Cup Final Replay at Croft Park in which Blyth beat North Shields
2-1 to seal the double. No photo exisits of club with the NEL trophy.

Back Row L to R –
Charlie Metcalfe, John Knox, Tom Carnaby, George Wolf,
William Dexter, Tom Freeman.
Front Row L to R –
George Hickman, Ernie Park, William Redman,
Jack Kennedy, Emanuel ‘Manny’ Sharpless.
*This image was taken along with the one with all the club officials
and was used on a used on the Adrath Cigarette card.

•  It is the only time a Blyth Spartans team appeared on the once popular Cigarette cards.

1934/35 –Back Row L to R –
Ernie Park, Jimmy Anderson, Charlie Metcalf, Eddy Dawson,
Tom Freeman, Tom Young, E. Hall.
Front Row L to R –
George Hickman, Sam Gill, Albert Dunmore, Jack Kennedy,
James Robinson, Tom Carnaby.
Mascot unknown.
*Taken at Edgeley Park on Wednesday 28th November 1934 before
1-4 FA Cup 1st Round Replay defeat by Stockport County.

1934/35 –
Blyth Spartans Reserves*Taken on Saturday 13th October 1934 before 0-5 Tyneside League defeat at Percy Main Amateurs.

1933/34 –*Taken on Wednesday 24th January 1934 at Croft Park before 1-0 win over
Newcastle United Reserves in Northumberland Senior Cup Semi Final.

1931/32 –
Blyth Spartans Reserves *Taken on Saturday 12th March 1932 at Croft Park before 1-3 defeat to New Delaval Villa
in Semi Final of Northumberland Aged Miners Homes Cup.

1929/30 –Back Row L to R –
W.W Reed Secretary, William Banks, Charlie Metcalfe, George Turnbull,
Stan Bell, G. Lillistone, G. Gogle, W. Cotton Trainer.
Front Row L to R –
T. Stephenson Chairman, W.H Spry, Andy Kell, W. Taylor, Harry Hogg,
Percy Tait, W. Rowell Vice Chairman.
*Taken on Saturday 7th September 1929 at Croft Park before 2-3 defeat
to West Stanley in North Eastern League.

1928/29 –Handwritten names on reverse of this post card:
GK: Turnbull, Full Backs: Robson, Hyde.
Half back line: Taylor, Richmond, Hogg.
Forwards: Graham, Linfoot, Sanderson, Tait, Duffell.
*Taken at Croft Park, this Post Card photo has Blyth Spartans hand written
on the reverse and a list of players but not in the order they appear in the photo.
Long serving trainer Bill Lawton is on far left of image, Hugh Richmond is 5th from left,
was he was Blyth’s first professional player and with that he had other duties at the club.
He was the groundsman at Croft Park, also had to run the Spartans Wednesday team.

Blyth Wednesday team*Taken at Croft Park, it was a half day on a Wednesday for most businesses in those days
and there was several Wednesday football leagues for teams to compete in.
Blyth Wednesday team played in the Tyneside Wednesday League, 
Spartans Trainer Bill Lawton (far left) and First Team player
Hugh Richmond (far right) ran the clubs Wednesday team.

1922/23 –
Back Row L to R –
Jack Blythe Trainer, Robert Park, Ian MacLachlan, Albert Telford, Jimmy Potts,
R. Taylor, Alf Fenwick, Dr. J.M MacLachlan Club Doctor.
Front Row L to R –
J. Prior, L. Pyke, George W. Pyke, Jackie Pearson, W. Watson.
*Taken behind the main Croft Park stand in build up to the FA Cup First Round
home tie with Stoke on Saturday 13th January 1923. 
Lost game 0-3 in front of a then record 9,121 crowd of at Croft Park.

Back Row L to R –
Jack Blythe Trainer,  T.W. Robson Secretary, gentleman behind in hat is unknown,
Robert Park, G. Kinnair Financial Secretary, Alfred Telford, Jimmy Potts,
Dr. Ian MacLachlan, T.C Nicholson Director, T.W Crozier Director,  
F.E Barker Assistant Secretary, J. Blythe.
Middle Row L to R –
Dr. J.M MacLachlan Club Doctor, T. Stephenson Vice Chairman,
J.B Nicholson Chairman, W. Ward, Alfred Fenwick, Harry Hogg,
J.L Spence Director, J. Nicholson Director, J.G Parker Director.
Front Row L to R –
R. McGuire, J.L Pyke, George W Pyke, E. Thompson, W. Watson.
* Taken at Croft Park at side of main stand before start of the 1922/23 season.

1920/21 – Blyth Spartans Reserves
* Taken at Croft Park behind the main stand before start of the 1921/22 season.
Unable to identify players and officials other than Billy Lawton Trainer far let of back row
and player Daniel James Barker in centre of front row.

• Please get in touch via email if you can identify any players or officials in this photo –
theblythspirit@hotmail.com

——————

1917-1918 – Blyth Spartans Munition Girls

Blyth Spartans Munition Girls – Munitionette Cup Winners 1918
Back Row L to R – Hannah Weir, Lizzie James, Nellie Fairless
Middle Row L to R –  Agnes Sample, Martha O’Brien, Bella Metcalfe
Front Row L to R – Dollie Allan, Annie Allan, Bella Reay, Ada Reed, Jennie Morgan
*Taken behind main stand at Croft Park following cup win.

Blyth Spartans Munitionettes with club officials
Back Row L to R –
“Easy” Baker, Hannah Malone, Lizzie James, Nellie Fairless, Steve (surname unknown).
Third Row L to R –
W. Fairless, G. Bird, Julia Stevens, Mrs Fawcett, M. Carr, Jim McNally, W. Campbell.
Second Row L to R –
R. Thompson, Agnes Sample, Martha O’ Brien, Bella Metcalfe, Ted Ellis.
Front Row L to R –
Dollie Summers, Annie Allen, Bella Reay, Dolly Allen, Jennie Morgan.
• The version below was taken with only the the team players.

——————

1913/14 –

Back Row L to R –
R. Harrison Committee, Unknown, R. Shiel Committee, T. Nicholson Treasurer.
Third Row L to R –
J. Goulding President, T. Gibb Financial Secretary, W. Hickleton Committee,
F. Southern Committee, W. Fairhurst Committee, William Lawton, Norman Findlay, R. Moore,
Unknown, J. Nicholson Chairman, R. Bird Trainer.
Second Row L to R –
J.E Spence Committee, W.J Parker Secretary, R. Brown, L. Lambert, Jack Blythe,
J.Horn Committee, J. Watson Snr Committee.
Front Row L to R –
J. Watson, J. MacDonald, W. Pinchen, W.B Kelly, G. Ryder, G. Trotter.
* Taken at Croft Park at side of main stand before start of the clubs
first season in the North Eastern League. Trophy is Northern Alliance
champions trophy and shield won in 1912/13 season.

1909/10 –Back Row L to R –
Clem Stephenson, Jonathan Ridley Secretary, J.W. Lee, Unknown official, Billy Lawton.
Front Row L to R –
Unknown player, Unknown player, Unknown player, Unknown player, Peter Mackin,
Jack Wright, Unknown player, Billy Spence.
* Taken on Wednesday 15th December 1909 before 3-1 Tynemouth Infirmary Cup
Quarter Final win at Bedington United.

Back Row L to R –
Unknown official, Unknown official, Unknown Player Unknown Player, Billy Lawton,
Unknown official, Unknown official, Unknown official.
Middle Row L to R –
Unknown official, Unknown official, Unknown player, Unknown player,
Jack Wright, Jonathan Ridley Secretary.
Front Row L to R –
Unknown player, Unknown player, Peter Makin, Unknown Player, Billy Spence.
* Unable to find an exact date and location of this photo but believed to
have been taken in March 1910 following Clem Stephenson’s move to Aston Villa.

• Please get in touch via email if you can identify any players or officials in this photo –
theblythspirit@hotmail.com

1905/06 –

Back Row L to R –
E. Barker Trainer, W. Howard Committee, E. Riley Committee, W. Fairhurst, R. Craft,
C. Moreland, E. Parker, D. Maltman Trainer, T. Robson Committee,
W. Hogg Committee, E. Wakenshaw.
Middle Row L to R –
S. Barnes Committee, A. Thompson, H. Coundon, D. Little Captain, T. Stephenson Secretary,
W. Scott, A. Bailey, J. Parker Committee, F. Robinson Committee.
Middle Row L to R –
H. Stenhouse, N. Thompson, E. Mount, W. Todd, W. Spence, W. Scott.
* Taken on Wednesday 8th November 1905 before a Charity game against
Newcastle United for the Blyth Coble Disaster Relief Fund.
A 1,000 crowd at Croften Ground saw Blyth lose 1-7 to the Newcastle first team.

• The club owns better quality glass framed version of this team photo with a small plaque acknowledging winning the 1905/06 Northumberland FA Minor Cup.
As shown the plaque states: ‘Winners of the Northern Minor Cup 1905/06’.

1901/02 –
Back Row L to R –
J. Purdy . D. Maltman, G. Robertson, F. Southern, J. Cannon, C. Fraser R. Bird
Middle Row L to R –
J. Archbold Snr, E. Mount, T. Elliot, J. Evans, W. Harvey, W. Rowell.
Front Row L to R –
H. Stenhouse, J. Baxter, R. Patton, P. McGalde, J. Archbold Jr.
* Taken at Travellers Rest public house which club used as its base then.
This is the earliest known team photo of the newly formed Blyth Spartans.
• While this image states ‘1901-2’ exact date is unclear because club started 1901/02
season wearing white shirts white shorts and red socks. The club did not
adopt the green & white stripes until start of the 1902/03 season.

—  Other teams from the town’s history —

1959/60 – Blyth Villa FCBack Row L to R –
Patterson, James, Nesbitt, Murray, Robertson, Oliver.
Front Row L to R –
Storey, Day, Beckwith, Levy, Campbell.
* Played in East Northumberland League.

1945/46 – Blyth FCText underneath original image states –
“Player shown are Easton (goalkeeper); Fairhurst and Buckham (full-backs);
Casson, Cook, McGlen (half-backs); Robinson, Fenwick, Yeowart, Barber, Dodds (forwards).
* Taken at Croft Park before 1-1 draw with Newbiggin Welfare in
Semi Final of Northumberland Senior Cup.
• Blyth FC took over from Blyth Shipyard FC for 1945/46 Nothern Combination League season as officials worked towards bringing the post war Blyth Spartans club back for the 1946/47 season.

1944/45 – Blyth Shipyard FC

Back Row L to R –
G. Young, C. Thompson, J. Hayes, N. Gaffney, R. Gledson, R. Buckham,
E. Bell, W. Snape, J.Bird.
Middle Row L to R –
M.Bell, J. Thompson, J. Dolan, G.A Wiles, E. Ellis Chairman, W. Turnbull President,
J. Young Secretary, G. Glenworthy, T. Maughan.
Front Row L to R –
S. Dryden, W.C Brown, J. Fairhurst, D. Lewis, J. Turney, W. Cooper.
* Taken in grounds of Blyth shipyard before start of 1944/45 season showing
Northern Combination Runners Up Shield won the previous season.
It would prove to be the last season of Blyth Shipyard FC.

1943/44 – Blyth Shipyard FCBack Row L to R –
J. Thompson, R. Gledson, S. Dryden, W. Brown, N. Gaffney, E. Bell, L. Vince
Front Row L to R –
J. Fairhurst, J.A Turney, D.J Lewis, C.J Hayes, W. Cooper.
* Taken in grounds of Blyth shipyard following completion of 43/44 season
showing Northern Combination Runners Up Shield.

1930’s – Blyth Co Op FC possibly* Taken at Croft Park in front of main stand but unknown
when exactly this photo was taken.
Believed to be the Blyth Co Op team who played
in the Blyth Wednesday League.
Players pictured include: George Summbell,
George Chapple, Eddie Farley & Carl Milson.

1931/32 – Blyth Plessey Athletic FC

* 1931/32 Northumberland Junior Cup winners.
Unfortunately nothing else is known about this photo.

1927/28 – Blyth Gordon AFC

Back Row L to R –
N. Bone, J.W Turnbull, F. Lake, G. Hudson, T. Johnson.
Front Row L to R –
G. Brown Secretary, W. Straker, W. Ward, T. Charlton, W. Binks, J. Richardson.
Front Row L to R –
H. Tait, J. Blair, S. Wilkinson, J. Dryden, M. Rawlings.
* Blyth Gordon played in the Blyth and District League,
in 1972/28 the finished 3rd and won every
cup match they played winning 4 trophies.
The Blyth Hospital Cup was won beating
Blyth Spartans Reserves in the Final at Croft Park.
• For all the success the club folded in 1930 due to financial reasons!

1912/13 – Blyth Shamrock FC

* 1912/13 Northumberland Junior Cup winners. Beat Rosehill Villa 4-3 in the Final
at St James’ Park following a 2-2 draw in first game, thus they became the first
Blyth winners of the NFA Junior Cup.
• Future Spartans Ted Ward, front row second from right,
but all others are unknown.

1911/12 – Blyth Shamrock FCBack Row L to R –
Andre York, George Wilkinson Trainer, Albert Telford, Arthur Howes, Wilf Mordue,
John Bower Trainer, Howard Irwin Committee.
Middle Row L to R –
Bob Thompson Secretary, Jack Dodds, Fred Hanson, Tom Lillie, George Hogg Treasurer.
Front Row L to R –
Greener Miller, Bob Thomson, Dick Summerfield, Ted Ward, George Allen.
* Runners Up in the Northumberland FA Junior Cup, lost replay 2-3 to Prudhoe Celtic
after 3-3 draw in first game, both played at St James’ Park.
• Ted Ward & Albert Telford would go on to play for Blyth Spartans.
• Secretary Bob Thompson would go onto work for Blyth News and became known as ‘Crofter’, spending many years covering all aspect of football in Blyth.
He also was involved with running of the Spartans and the Reserve side pre & post WWII.

1911/12 – Blyth Albion FC

Back Row L to R –
T. Crate, J. Graham, D. Whitton, M. Delaney, C. Reid Trainer.
Middle Row L to R –
G. Taylor, J. Carr, M. Manners.
Front Row L to R –
A. Whiteman, A.B Mordue, T. Robinson, Spence, J. Holmes.
* Blyth Albion originated from Blyth FC Seconds team and played in
the Ashington and District League.

1898 – Blyth Thistle FC* Unknown when exactly this photo was taken but Blyth Thistle became the main team in
the town following Blyth FC folding and Blyth Spartans starting up.
• The black & white shirts were inherited from Blyth FC when they folded.

1898 – Blyth Albion FC

* Taken at Blyth Flats (now site of Ridley Park) date exactly when this photo was taken
is unknown but Blyth Albion played in the East Northumberland League in 1898/99.

1890’s – Blyth FC

Back Row L to R –
T. Crate, J. Graham, D. Whitton, M. Delaney, C. Reid Trainer.
Middle Row L to R –
G. Taylor, J. Carr, M. Manners.
Front Row L to R –
J. McNally, W. Morton, T. Nicholson captain, R. Patton, T. Huster.
* Unknown when exactly this photo was taken but Blyth FC played in the
Northern Alliance from 1892/93 until folding early in the 1898/99 season.
• Image appeared in the Northern Athlete which was a weekly journal in 1890’s.

1895 – Blyth FC SecondsBack Row L to R –
J. Archbold Secretary, F. Southern, Vickers, C. Rutherford, Peter Dixon.
Middle Row L to R –
J. Evans, T. Bell, W. Thompson, S. Ryce, G. Couthard.
Front Row L to R –
J. McNally, W. Morton, T. Nicholson captain, R. Patton, T. Huster.
* Trophy is Soulsby Charity Cup and Northumberland Medals.

——-
This page is not claiming ownership or credit for any of the images
that appear, it is purely an attempt to collate them in one place.
If the photographers are known they have been acknowledged/credited.
If you know whom took an image or one is your own please
get in touch so credit can be attributed.
——-
If you know of any photo’s/images of the team that do not feature
please get in touch so they can be added into the archive.

If you know of any missing players names in the photos
please get in touch so they can also be added.
Contact – theblythspirit@hotmail.com
——-

Acknowledgements, Credits and Thanks you’s –

The late Ken Sproat’s superb book ‘The History of Blyth Spartans’ was,
as ever, an important source of information.

Thanks go to the following Blyth fans for their help with collating recent team photos:
Martin Hunter, Dan Rolls, Jeff Young & Phil Castiaux.

Thanks to Club photographers –
Kris Hodgetts – https://www.khphotos.co.uk

Paul Scott – https://www.flickr.com/photos/153784279@N03/albums

Bill Broadley and former club photographer Steve White for their team images.

Thanks to Charlie Turney for use of images from the Turney Family collection.

Thanks to Steve Richmond for use of images and information from his research into his Richmond family history.

The following share images via their Twitter feeds –
FootballRetoplus – @robertmdaws
OldToonFan – @old_toon
The Famous Yorkshiremen – @NLSnapshots

Several teams images were found on https://www.flickr.com posted by the following –
Kevin Warburton, Brian Grey, @biddleofnowhere Photography,
Ron Aitchison, Michael Ripley.

Yvonne Crawford provided the images of the Blyth Munitionettes used in the original blog and again here.

Following websites contained images used –
http://prints.colorsport.co.uk
https://shop.memorylane.co.uk
https://www.alamy.com/

Several photos came from local newspapers who published the images at time they were taken –
Blyth News, Courier & The Evening Chronicle.

Several old team photos came from Blyth history Facebook pages –
Blyth Remembered & Memories and The Official Blyth Remembered.

*This will be continually updated as more images are found*

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Green & White Cult Heroes – Harry Mills

Every era in Blyth Spartans history has players adored and idolised by the supporters,  in the post WWII years goalkeeper Harry Mills was that player.
The supporter who went on to play for the club and became a cult hero.

Henry Owen Mills was born in Blyth on 23rd August 1922, at Chapel Row in Cambois.
It was as a 14 year old schoolboy that Harry first made his name, he was goalkeeper for the Blyth Boys side that remarkably fought its way through seven rounds of the prestigious English School Shield in the 1935/36 season.
Their run came to a galant end losing to West Ham Boys in front of 8,500 packed into Croft Park.

After leaving school Harry continued with his football, showing great promise as he progressed playing for Cambois Welfare Juniors, Shankhouse Welfare and Sleekburn A Pit Welfare.
He was offered trial by Bradford City but nothing came of it and then the outbreak of the war halted his career.

Aged 21 he enlisted and served in the Eight Army in North Africa. While serving he kept in touch with events at home receiving a monthly bundle of newspapers from his family. The Blyth News was one of those newspapers and it enable him to follow the fortunes of Blyth Shipyard FC’s great 1945/46 season in the Northern Combination.

Fighting in North Africa didn’t entirely stop his football, he did manage to play in four games the soldiers arranged on improvised desert pitches. He even traveled to Tripoli to watch an RAF versus Royal Navy showpiece game that was packed with many well known star footballers serving their country.

Harry in the back row of the famous Blyth Schools team of 1935/36.

• It was a letter home to the sports editor of the Blyth News, Bob Thompson aka Crofter, dated June 24th 1943 in which he told of how he became a goalkeeper, and it wasn’t out of his choice!
  He told of how, while serving in North Africa he had crossed paths with a former school friend, Dickie Wilson. They recalled how their footballing careers had swapped paths one afternoon at St Wilfreds Roman Catholic School. Both played for the school junior team, Harry at outside left and Dickie as the goalkeeper.
  However one afternoon their efforts didn’t impress the sports teacher Mr Gerald Kelly. Harry admitted their ‘standard of play in those position wasn’t very high’, Mr Kelly wasn’t too impressed either and eventually swapped their positions.
  Harry stated that:
  “Any progress we have made since those good old days we owe to Mr Gerald Kelly our sports teacher, who persevered with us when others would have long since given it up on us”.
  He ended the letter saying:
  ‘I’m just longing to get back home and play football again on Croft Park as I’m hoping to get a chance to play for the Spartans, my favourite team’.

After being demobilised in October 1945 he was signed by Brentford as an amateur, they had played throughout the war years in the London War League but Harry returned to the North East in 1946.
The letter he sent to the Blyth News proved a shrewd move, reporter Bob Thompson was a highly influential figure within the Spartans and had even run of the Reserve team before the war.
He invited Harry to play in the pre season matches, on Saturday 17th August 1946 he finally got his wish to play on Croft Park.
Harry played in the first of the traditional pre season Green and Whites against the Claret and Blues practise matches. Keeping goal for the Claret and Blues who won 7-6, several players were missing due to prior commitments, some playing cricket and others being involved in ‘professional foot handicaps’ – sprint races which were hugely popular and lucrative for the winners.

Club officials already had one keeper in mind, former Reserve and Blyth Shipyard player Billy Goulding, his family had long standing ties with the club but he wasn’t available due his cricket commitments.
That played to Harry’s advantage, on Saturday 24th August the club held its final practise match at Croft Park, some 25 players were used across the two teams as the Green and Whites won 5-0.
Harry played for the Green and Whites, who were made up of the first choice players, stealing a march on Billy Goulding who missed another practise match.

The clubs first game after reforming post war came on Saturday 31st August 1946, Harry was deservedly picked as first choice keeper playing in the 1-1 with North Shields Reserves at Croft Park while Goulding played for the Reserves in a 4-5 North East Alliance defeat at Barrington United.

Harry went onto play in the first eleven game of the season, keeping three clean sheets as the Spartans won seven of the eleven games.
Following the 2-3 Northern Alliance Cup defeat away at Ashington club officials decided to change the keepers with Billy Goulding coming into the first team and Harry playing for the Reserves.

After ten games for the Reserves his chance to play first team football again came again on Saturday 11th January 1947.
Illness ruled Billy Goulding out of the home game against West Sleekburn, Harry kept a clean sheet in the 4-0 win and kept his place for the rest of the season.
In the return game against West Sleekburn on Saturday 22nd March, he saved his first penalty for the Spartans but unfortunately his 89th minute heroics were in vain as the home side were already 3-1 up at the time!
A late equaliser by league leaders Newburn in the 2-2 Croft Park draw on Saturday 17th May, effectively ended the Spartans hopes of catching the Tynesiders and saw Harry pick up a Northern Alliance Runners Up medal in his first season with the club.

1947/48 saw Blyth return to the North Eastern League with 25 year old Harry now firmly established as first choice keeper.
He played in the FA Cup for the first time on Saturday 20th September, keeping a clean sheet in the 2-0 Preliminary Round win at Birtley Town and again in 1st Qualifying Round 4-0 home win over Throckley Welfare.

The step up in level certainly brought out the best in him under guidance of the club’s new Player/Coach Joe Wilson. In the run up to the much anticipated festive fixtures Blyth won four games without Harry conceding a goal, recording 2-0, 5-0, 4-0 and 3-0 wins.
The Boxing Day derby at Ashington attracted a 8,000 crowd for the 1-1 draw, with 5,000 attending the New Years Day return game at Croft Park which the visitors won 0-4, it was only the second time ever Harry had ever let that many in in a single game!

• The most bizarre goal he ever conceded came on Saturday 27th December 1947 when Blyth played Murton Colliery Welfare away.
  Trailing 0-1 from the 6th minute after the gale force wind caught a cross and blew the ball over Harry into the net, it got more bizarre in the 30th minute.
  A right wing cross was swung in, as Blyth’s experienced Player Manager Joe Wilson set himself to clear a dog ran on the pitch across the path of the ball. The ball struck the dog and deflected passed Harry into the net!.
  To the amazement of the Blyth players the referee G. Smith of County Durham awarded the goal even after their protests insisting it was Wilson who had put the ball passed Harry into the net. Blyth officials appealed the result to the Northern Eastern League’s management committee but with the only the referee’s account to available the decided the result would stand.

Blyth officials wanted to bring Billy Fenwick back to the club in December 47 and approached his club Ashington but they wanted Harry in exchange!
Aware of others clubs interest in their star player Blyth weren’t prepared to let him leave in an exchange deal. Ashington stood firm, it was Mills for Fenwick or the deal wouldn’t happen.
It never happened, Billy Fenwick eventually handed in a transfer request to try and force through a return to Croft Park but Ashington sold selling him to North Shields instead.

Harry had become renowned for his ability and willingness to dive at players feet to retrieve the ball. However, on Saturday 31st January his bravery led to him being stretchered off!
Trailing 1-3 at home Murton CW he jumped to claim a cross, he then slipped on the muddy goalmouth as he landed. The ball landed at the feet of Murton outside left Bob Holland the far post, Harry instinctively lunged at Holland as he stabbed the ball home. The fall and subsequent lunge injured his back and after receiving treatment he had be carried off.
The injury kept him out for a fortnight, returning to the side for the 2-3 defeat at home to Workington on Saturday 14th February but he would only play three more games of the club.

In what turned out to be his 59th and last appearance for the club he saved a penalty in a 2-1 win at Consett on Saturday 28th February. In the crowd that afternoon and suitably impressed with what they had seen were officials from First Division Huddersfield Town.
However, it was Sunderland manager Bill Murray who had been the first to be impressed by Harry.
Having registered their interest with Blyth officials, Sunderland were to pass up on their ‘first refusal’ on Harry to the help another club.
Huddersfield’s Blyth born manager George Stephenson, was in need of a keeper having lost long serving Bob Hesford to an injury.
On Saturday 21st February Hesford suffered a badly broken ankle in a 0-2 defeat at Sunderland, after the game the Sunderland manager told Stephenson all about Harry Mills.
Reserve Don Clegg came in for the next game, a 1-2 home defeat to Bolton Wanderers as Stephenson sent officials up to Consett to watch Harry in action. 

On Tuesday 2nd March, George Stephenson rang the Spartans Chairman Bob Middleton, they struck a deal that both clubs were happy with. The reported £850 was a club record at the time, but Middleton insisted on an extra fee being paid if Harry played a certain number of first team games.
The very next day Blyth vice chairman Bob Kirkland drove Harry down to the Leeds Road ground. 
The deal was signed and the 26 year old keeper officially became a Town player on Wednesday 3rd March 1948.

Don Clegg lasted just one more game between the sticks, a 4-0 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield, before Harry received his call up to the first team. George Stephenson’s side had succumbed to five consecutive defeats by then and found themselves 21st in the First Division.
Harry’s debut came on Saturday 13th March in a home game with Middlesbrough and he made an immediate impact, goals from Vic Metcalfe and Albert Nightingale sealed a much needed 2-1 victory. 

March 1948 proved quite an eventful for him, not only signing for Huddersfield Town but five days after making this Football League debut he was back up north preparing for his ‘big day’.
On Thursday 18th March Harry married Edith Lambert at Hexham Abbey, then he was straight back down to Yorkshire to meet up with his teammates for a trip to the capital to face Charlton Athletic on the Saturday.
Town went unbeaten in his first three games as he made the No.1 spot his own, he kept four clean sheets in the next ten games. They finished the season in 19th place, four points above the drop zone.
Town were so pleased with their new player that Blyth’s secretary Roy Robertson received a cheque off Town for the agreed additional fee within a month of signing Harry rather than after the set number of appearances.

In the summer of 1948 Harry and Edith moved into a new house, the club had purchased six properties in the town for their players and Harry was given one of them.
Bob Hesford was still out injured by the time 1948/49 came around, Harry retained his place in the first team playing in the first game of the season, a 1-1 draw with Arsenal at Leeds Road.
However, the club brought in Jack Wheeler from Birmingham City, where he’d mostly played in the reserves. The two keepers would spend much of the season battling it out for the No.1 spot, Wheeler went straight into the first team for the second game of the season against Derby County.
He remained in goal for the third game, a 3-1 loss to Charlton Athletic, but was dropped in favour of Harry who played the next two games before once again losing his place to Wheeler!
As the season progressed Harry got an extended run in the side, he played played 26 out of 42 league games.
The season was a struggle for Town once again, finishing just one point above relegation to the Second Division. George Stephenson’s side ensured safety with a 1-0 win over Preston North End on the last day of the season, having propped up the division for much of April.

For the 1949-50 season, Harry was firmly established as the first team goalkeeper and missed just eight games, Bob Hesford eventually returned briefly in September before losing his place to Harry, Hesford would never play another game for the club and eventually departed in August 1950 to become a teacher.
Jack Wheeler came back into the frame in January playing two game but Harry soon regained the keepers jersey for the rest of the seasons they finished in 15th place.

Under George Stephenson’s management it was constant struggle for Town as they battled to stay afloat in a league that they’d dominated two decades before. Although Harry proved to be the dependable keeper any side needs, it lacked the quality needed to compete at the higher end of the table.

During the 1950-51 season, which Harry had started as the first choice he lost his place to Jack Wheeler after letting eight goals in a 0-8 defeat at Middlesbrough on 30th September.
He was confined to the reserves for the rest of the season, barring a single first team game in March.

Harry briefly won his place back during 1951-52 but only for four games before being dislodged by Wheeler. In a season where Town remained in the bottom two from October onwards, it was a miserable season that was only heading one way, down.
In the 25 players used that season, three of them were goalkeepers, with Harry and Jack Wheeler battling it out as usual and a third goalkeeper, Ronald Humpston who played five games between November and December.
Harry had an extended run in the side lasting from Christmas Day until April, the man who had given him his break in the Football League, George Stephenson, stepped down as Town manager on 11th March following a 0-2 home defeat by Bolton.

Former Scottish International Andy Beattie was eventually prized away from Stockport County to be the new manager in April by a reported salary of £2,500!
The new boss handed Jack Wheeler the keepers jersey for the final four games of the season, but it was too late to salvage the season and Town were relegated for the first time in their history.

For the 1952-53 season, the club’s first in Division Two since 1920, Beattie opted for Jack Wheeler as his goalkeeper at the start of the campaign.
Town won promotion finishing 2nd, losing out on the title to Sheffield United by only two points. Amazingly Beattie kept more-or-less the same team throughout the season. Just 15 players used all season and seven of them ever-present, unfortunately for Harry keeper Jack Wheeler was one of the seven and he spent the entire season in the reserve side.

Harry, 3rd from right, and his teammates set off for away game at Arsenal.

Town continued the good run during the following season,1953-54, from October onwards, didn’t drop below 4th place until they eventually finished 3rd in Division One, their highest finish since the war.
Jack Wheeler began the season as first choice keeper but a hand injury in the second game of the season a 0-0 draw at Arsenal on 22nd August saw Harry back on the first team.
Despite over a year since his last first team involvement, Harry did superbly well on his long over due recall. Remaining in goal virtually all season playing 38 games and keeping 10 clean sheets during the season as Town finished 3rd.

Unbelievably after this great 1953-54 season Harry spent virtually all of the the following season back in the Reserves! He didn’t play a single first team game for Town in the 1954-55 season, as Jack Wheeler was back from injury and was preferred by manager Andy Beattie.

After his season in the Reserves Harry did win his place back for the 1955-56 season, though he played just 10 games before Wheeler was reinstalled as first choice.
By the autumn of 1955 young keeper Harry Fearnley had emerged as another challenger to Harry for the No.1 spot. When injury kept Wheeler out of the side for a couple of games in October, it was Fearnley was picked over Harry!. 

In December 1955, after seven years and 157 appearances Harry left Leeds Road to join Halifax Town in search of regular first team football.
Upon leaving his departure was noted in the local paper with the following rather less than favourable write up:
“Mills was at times erratic, but when on top form he was cool, alert and daring, his height and reach enabling him to clear shots that would have beaten many goalkeepers.
It was very much a case of him either being absolutely brilliant or struggling badly, his form was often erratic”

His former Town teammate, Willie Watson was now the manager of the Third Division North team and knew Harry well so was able to beat off interest from Bradford City to his signature.
Upon signing the Halifax Daily Courier & Guardian stated that Harry was:
Considered one of the most agile and courageous exponents of his specialised craft the First Divison has known since the war.
At the Shay he would compete with Arthur Johnson for the jersey, and had to wait until February 1956 before getting into the first team.

Saturday 16th February’s home game with Mansfield was this debut, making some inspired saves on an icy pitch as the Shaman recorded their eleventh home won of the campaign.

However, after only three more starts and following a 3-3 draw at home to Gateshead on 10th March, Arthur Johnson was reinstalled as first team keeper and kept his place for the rest of the season.
By then Willie Watson had resigned and coach Bill Burnikell was promoted to manager, he gave Harry an extended run in the side during the first half of the 1956/57 season, leading to Johnson asking for a move away.
However, Burnikell’s resignation in December 56 led to the team election being made by he club’s committee. Chairman Harry Taylor, director Vivien Booth and trainer Allen had the final say and they elected to reinstate the now transfer listed Arthur Johnson back to the first team for the rest of the campaign.

After only a year at the Shay Harry decided to leave, a lack for first team football and life away from the game becoming more important it was an easy decision.
His wife Edith was experiencing ill health and they decided to move back home to Blyth to be with family.
Upon his return to the North East unsurprisingly there was interest form several clubs but there was only the place the 35 year keeper wanted to play, Croft Park.
Having always been hugely popular in his home town, his progress in the Football League had been keenly followed through the updates and the writings of the man that had who had first brought him to the club, Blyth News reporter Bob Thompson aka Crofter.

The clubs Secretary/Manager Dougie Wright acted quickly and Harry was installed as first choice keeper for Spartans 57/58 North Eastern League season.
He made his return debut on Saturday 24th August 1957 but couldn’t prevent the Spartans falling to a 1-2 home defeat to Consett. He played in 36 consecutive games in that first season back before missing the last three games of the season, Tommy Orr replaced him.
Orr had ended the previous season as first choice but had stepped back down into the reserves when Harry came back.

The North Eastern League folded at the end of that 57/58 season, with falling member numbers in recent seasons the withdrawal of the six Football League Reserve sides spelled the end of the league that had ran since 1906.
The Spartans joined the Midland League, in the clubs two seasons in that league Harry played in all but three of the 68 games.

1958/59 brought him his first winners medal in mens football, Blyth fought their way to the Northumberland Senior Cup Final.
A 7,840 crowd at St James’ Park saw Blyth arch rivals Ashington 2-1 thanks to an 89th minute winner by Bob Nickalls.

Harry was an ever present in 59/60 as Blyth finished 5th once again, conceding only 56 goals in the 38 games played that season and had another appearance at St James Park as Blyth reached the Senior Cup Final again.
However, it was only a Runners Up medal that season as a 7,165 crowd saw North Shields claim the trophy with a 1-3 victory.
The following 1960/61 season saw Harry play in yet another new league for him and the Spartans.
The Midlands League folded due to financial problems after the 59/60 campaign so along with the other member clubs, Blyth transferred across to the Northern Counties League.
Harry played every minute of every game that season which only managed to start after the NCL created a League Cup competition to be played before the actual league campaign.
With only 18 clubs the league had to act to ensure the competition ran the full length of the season.
In the 18 league games Harry conceded 22 goals as Blyth finished 3rd, they also reached the League Cup Semi Final having finished 3rd place in the League Cup mini league competition.

The 1961/62 campaign proved to be the final one for Harry, now aged 38 he made 23 appearances before hanging up his gloves.
His final game game on Saturday 24th February 1962 was his 240 appearance for his hometown club.

He had helped the club get established again after the war and had become a real hero to his fellow townsfolk when he moved to Huddersfield Town. His return to the club in 1957 elevated him to iconic status with the fans.
His life after football saw Harry became a well respected painter and decorator in Blyth working for the Co-Op,  sadly he passed away on 14th August 1990 aged only 68.

Harry Mills is a legendary Spartan, and a true all time great of the club.

His footballing fame and popularity in hometown made him one of the Blyth’s truly legendary figures. 

—————————————————————-

Credits, Acknowledgements & Thank you’s:

Halifax Town historian Johnny Meyhell for supplying the information and images of Harrys time at the club. 

Huddersfield Town historian Lee Morris for supplying the information of Harrys time at the club.

The late Ken Sproat’s superb book ‘The History of Blyth Spartans’ was as ever an important source of information.

The superb British Newspaper Archive was a vital source of info on Harry’s career.

The following websites provided important info and images –

https://www.petespicturepalace.co.uk   –    @PetesPicPalace on Twitter

https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/

https://huddersfieldtowncollection.wordpress.com

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Playing away.

How many grounds have you seen Blyth Spartans play at?
Well known fan, Mark Wilkinson has just clocked up the milestone of watching Blyth play at 100 different grounds.

It’s taken him 26 years to achieve his feat and reckons in doing so has clocked up enough miles to have traveled around the world 30 times!
He is actually  a ‘homeless’ Blyth Spartans fan, Mark lives a 440 mile round trip away from the clubs Northumberland home.
Every time he watches the Spartans play it is literally an away game for him. He regularly clocks up more miles to watch his team play at home than most fans do traveling to watch an away game!
There has not been many Blyth games played in the last 26 years that has not seen his distinctive flag draped somewhere within that ground, his ‘Coventry Spartans’ flag has toured the country.

You may wonder what brought someone from Coventry to support a team so far away from his home, it was a family relative from Blyth and his trips to visit them that give the opportunity to watch the famous Non League team play.

Mark’s first Spartans game came while visiting to family in August 1993 when he took in a Northern League game against Dunston Federation at Croft Park.
Thereafter, he was hooked attending games whenever up north visiting family. He relayed his experiences his work mates at the Coventry Planning Office. With them all playing for the same works football team they decided the next logical step was to form themselves into an unofficial supporters group.

Saturday 11th November 1995 saw the ‘Coventry Spartans’ make their first group away day. Blyth were playing Bury at Gigg Lane in an FA Cup 1st Round tie.
Along with 500 traveling from the North East they joyously watched Spartans add another chapter to they along and proud FA Cup history with a superb 0-2 victory.
The magic of the cup certainly worked on the Coventry Spartans, every chance they got to attend games they took. Any time the Spartans played remotely close to their area they would make arrangements for an away day. At start of every season they would study the fixtures when they were released planning their games, marking certain home games as special days out. They would all travel up to Croft Park to attend games having clubbed together their funds to sponsor home games and rightly enjoy a home game in the club sponsors lounge.

To this very day Mark still takes every opportunity to take in a Blyth game. He wouldn’t think twice about driving up to Croft Park for important midweek home league game. While being Midlands based has helped for games at places like Tamworth and Nuneaton which are to him as close to a home game as it gets for him, he regularly takes half days from work to attend midweek away games in and around the Manchester and South Yorkshire areas.

His dedication shown when taking time off work to attend a midweek county cup game because it’s being played at a ground he hasn’t seen the Spartans play at before.
He often clocks up around 4 to 5,000 miles a season watching his club, and of course there is the cost involved. Admission and petrol aside its the must have match programme, the pies the deserved pint and the occasional deserved reward of an overnight stay.

In the early years of the Coventry Spartans Mark soon released just how many miles they were clocking up each season so in the build up to the clubs 1999/2000 season he came up with a plan to record their  travels.
He wrote and published a book; My Mother in Law loves Football which documented the Coventry Spartans travels during the Centenary season in which they clocked up a total of 6,810 miles to watch 21 games played.

Travelling to away games is never a simple affair, more often than not it involves careful planning.
Everything is planned down to the smallest detail. He has to work out his timings for the day, he needs to know what time to get into work early enough to put in his required hours that allows him to get away in time to make the drive to games.
He’s always organising pick up points for mates on they way to games and even goes out his way to drop then back off at various railway stations after matches allow them to complete their journey’s home.
When his daughter started University in Swansea, he’d forgotten that he had agreed to drop her off.
So, with Blyth playing away at Stourbridge it was a very early start. He drove all the way to Swansea dropped her off and then dashed back up to Stourbridge to ensure he made it in time for kick off.

Mark has seen 15 different managers come and go during his 26 year quest, seen the Spartans play in three different leagues; Northern League, Northern Premier League, and National League North.
he’s watched games in five cup competitions; FA Cup, FA Trophy, Setanta Shield and Northumberland Senior Cup & NPL Presidents Cup.
Such is Mark’s dedication to the club, in March 2018 he made a 5 hour midweek round trip to Barry in Wales to support the clubs striker Dan Maguire when he was capped by the England C team against the Wales C side.

His target was delay due to the Covid-19 pandemic and eventually came on Saturday 4th December 2021 when Spartans made their first ever visit to AFC Fylde’s Mill Farm Ground.
However, it wasn’t one of his better away days. He’s not a fan of the new out of town modern grounds:
The 100^th ground was a trip to AFC Fylde and a 4-1 loss, a ground which typifies the direction in which non-league football is going. The quirky grounds in the middle of housing estates are being replaced with out of town Lego grounds on retail parks. The food and toilets may be better, but the atmosphere in these new grounds often leaves a lot to be desired.

Mark has listed the grounds he’s visited over the years along with his memory of that ground –

• Alfreton Town – my first visit was just after we had won the President’s Cup
• Altrincham – the loss in the 2018/19 Play Offs was hard to take
• Ashton United – nothing to shout about
• Bamber Bridge – Once missed 3 Blyth goals with “Delhi belly”, I was in the loo
• Barrow – Horrible fans, got the finger off a 4-year-old as we walked out
• Barwell – Great burgers apparently
• Bedlington Terriers – A rare Blyth away game in the North East
• Belper Town – The home goalkeeper went on a stag doo with a load of Blyth fans after the game
• Bishop Auckland – Heritage Park – Lovely old-style ground with a cricket pitch at the side
• Blackpool – FA Cup, so close to a replay
• Blyth Spartans – How it’s changed over the years
• Boston United – Pretty poor view from the away end
• Bournemouth – FA Cup, 2 fantastic saves from Mark Bell to earn a replay
• Brackley Town – Pretty friendly lot
• Bradford PA – Hate running track pitches, the bus shelter stand behind the goals is something else
• Burscough – Who could forget the Spartans Choir after the match
• Burton Albion – Remember going the week after the FA Trophy game we nearly had a steward each
• Bury – Famous 1^st Round FA Cup win
• Buxton – Always liked going here
• Chasetown – That FA Cup replay defeat was just horrible
• Cheltenham Town – Gloucester City – Segregation, urgh
• Chester City – Deva Stadium FA Trophy, home fans gave Blyth a standing ovation after the match
• Chorley – One of the first Coventry Spartans away trips
• Cirencester – to see us play Gloucester City
• Coalville Town – not much to report
• Colwyn Bay – how could I forget the game where 3 Blyth players ended up in hospital
• Corby Town – old ground
• Corby Town – new ground a stone’s throw away from the old one
• Curzon Ashton – the Mexican fancy dress was something else
• Darlington – One word awful
• Drolysden – All I recall was dog dirt behind the goal, pitch is probably the only grass for miles
• Eastwood Town – Just shows what happens when someone tries to take a club beyond its means
• Emley – Travelled from Blyth for an away game. Great mushy peas
• Frickley Athletic – I hate Frickley end of
• Farsley Celtic – old style ground
• FCUM – That 3-1 win away with a Nipa scorcher will live long in the memory
• Fylde – another soulless new ground in the middle of nowhere
• Gainsborough Trinity – One of my favourite grounds, great raised terrace behind one of the goals
• Gateshead – Soulless
• Grantham Town – Home of the Gingerbread men
• Guiseley – My son was only 10 months old on my first visit, he’s now 20
• Halesowen Town – FA Trophy replay
• Harrogate Town – Things have changed here over the years
• Hartlepool United – FA Cup, will never forget that Stephen Turnbull free kick
• Hednesford – Not much to say really
• Hereford United – What a crap start to the 2018/19 season
• Hinckley – new ground
• Hucknall Town – Always loved the Club Shed
• Hyde United – not had a lot of luck here over the years
• Ilkeston Town – 3 nil up and they fcuk’d it up, what a comeback that was
• Kettering Town (Old ground) – Great terrace alongside the pitch
• Kettering Town (New ground – Burton Latimer) – Nothing to shout about
• Kidderminster Harriers – Great pies, but segregation
• Lancaster City – Went when I was on holiday in the Lakes
• Leamington Spa – More sand than Blackpool beach
• Leek Town – Who could forget that FA Cup comeback
• Leigh RMI – Great old ground, petty we lost in an FA Cup qualifier
• Leyton Orient – FA Trophy 3^rd Round, unlucky not to get a draw
• Marine – Perhaps my favourite ground
• Matlock Town – Great view and a nice little ground
• Mickleover Sports – who could forget Pinkie and the 7-1 drubbing?
• Nantwich – Great food
• Newcastle Benfield – NSC Final v Bedlington Terriers – we lost & I got soaked
• Newcastle United – NSC Finals v Bedlington Terriers & Morpeth
• North Ferriby United – Another example of money spoiling football
• Northwich Victoria – can’t remember which stadium I went to
• Nuneaton – great old-style ground in the heart of the town
• Nuneaton – new ground – The away game dressed as nuns was pure class
• Prescott Cables – (for a Runcorn game against Blyth) – Lovely ground
• Redditch – visited in my motorhome on the way to Wales
• Runcorn – The fact that you could go to the loo and still see the game will never be forgotten
• Rushall Olympic – What non-League football is all about
• Salford – Scene of the vicious attack by a wheelie bin on a Blyth supporter
• Shaw Lane AFC – Plastic team and ground
• Skelmersdale – A long midweek trip, but worth it in our promotion season
• Solihull Borough – An FA Trophy win
• Solihull Moors – can’t really remember it
• Southport – A 3-0 away win what more could you as for
• Spennymoor United – The hat trick by Graham Fenton in a 5-0 drubbing was superb
• Stafford Rangers – Great covered terrace alongside the pitch
• Stalybridge Celtic – nice ground on a bit of a slope
• Stamford – Old – Lovely ground in a great setting
• Stamford – New – Typical new soulless ground
• Stocksbridge Park Steels – A quirky non-league ground
• Stockport County – for the FA Cup 2^nd Round loss and a fine NLN away win
• Stourbridge – classic with a cricket pitch to one side
• Sutton Coldfield – Plastic pitch
• Tamworth – now looks like a giant snooker table
• Telford United – not the friendliest of grounds
• Trafford – neat and tidy ground
• Vauxhall Motors – 5-1 loss FA Cup loss was the only time I haven’t applauded the team off 
• Wakefield & Emley – Strange playing at a Rugby League ground
• Warrington Town – Midweek trip, great chip shop nearby
• Whitby Town – Not the nicest fans in the world
• Whitley Bay– pre season friendly
• Winsford Town – A piano outside the clubhouse and a Wayne Edgecumbe hat trick what a memory
• Witton Albion – Chris Addison dressed as a cock will live long in the memory 
• Worcester City – had a massive terrace alongside the pitch
• York City (Bootham Crescent) – Terrible away facilities, would have been good in its day
• York City (new Ground) truly awful new ground £20 admission
  

Mark has compiled his top three’s
All time top 3 favourite grounds are –
1 – Canal Street: Runcorn – great old ground with real character
2 – Matlock Town – great view of Riber Castle
3 – Kettering Town – loved the terrace along the length of the pitch opposite the main stand

His top 3 worst grounds are –
1 – Frickley Athletic – just grim
2 – York City – the new ground is awful, soulless and expensive
3 – Spennymoor – need I say more

His Top 3 best away memories are –
1 – FA Cup win at Bury  – the first Coventry Spartans away trip
2 – Winning the FA Cup game at Leek – after being 2-0 down at half-time.
3 – Mexican day – last away game at Curzon Ashton. What a day to celebrate winning the League.

Top 3 worst memories of away games –
1 – Losing 5-1 at Vauxhall Motors in FA Cup the only time I haven’t applauded the team off the pitch
2 – Losing away at Chasetown in the FA Cup replay – never felt that threatened at an away game
3 – Losing to Barrow and getting the finger off a young lad who was with his mum at the match!

Biggest wins witnessed at games –
7-1 away at Mickleover Sports – 21/1/17 (Reid hat trick)
5-0 away at Winsford United – 2/10/99 (Edgecumbe hat-trick)
5-0 away at Spennymoor United – 19/8/03 (Fenton hat-trick)

Biggest defeats witnessed at games –
5-1 at Vauxhall Motors 25/9/10 and at Chester 25/9/21
5-2 away at Hyde United – 16/10/99
4-3 Blackpool in the FA Cup – 15/11/97

Most goals seen in a game –
8 – 7-1 win at Mickleover Sports 21/1/17
8 – 4-4 away at Kettering Town 16/11/19

Other memorable moments in Mark’s 26 year achievement –

• At one sponsored match we got one of The Coventry Spartans, on his first trip to Croft Park, to ask this tall chap in a flat cap to move away from the TV in The Director’s Lounge as we couldn’t see the football results on Final Score. It was none other than Jack Charlton!
  His son John was the manager at the time.

• On the way back from the 4-3 defeat to Chester City in the FA Trophy on 24^th February 2001, I was interviewed by Richard Littlejohn live on BBC Radio 5 Live promoting my book
  “My Mother-In-Law Loves Football” I had to get out of the car in the snow as my mobile was interfering with the radio, much to the delight of the lads in the car.

• A couple of us met Bobby Robson at half-time when we popped into the Director’s Lounge at a mid-week game – I managed to get him to sign a programme which I auctioned off to raise funds for my book “My Mother-In-Law Loves Football”.

• Helicopter landing on the pitch at Croft Park to pick up an injured player

• 3 players getting taken to hospital away at Colwyn Bay

• Trouble getting my pushchair through the turnstile at Guiseley when my son was 10 months old
• Bamber Bridge – missed 3 goals in the toilet as a result of deli belly. I was that bad I couldn’t even drive home.

Acknowledgements & Thank you’s – 

• The original Coventry Spartans members; Martin Gibbins, Ian Lacey, David Pritchard.
• Graham Usher.
• Blyth Spartans officials who have helped over the years and the club website for archived results.
• Special mentions to my wife Wendy, children Aran and Ella for endulging my obsession.
• Peter and Rosie Ellis, Mark Powell, Phil Johnson, John Hague, Mark Hall, David Gray and Colin Green, plus all the other people who have joined me under the Coventry Spartans umbrella over the years.

Born in Blyth – Clem Stephenson.

This series features players that were born in the town and played for the club some stage of their careers.
Fourth in the series is…

Clem Stephenson 1909/10

From humble beginnings in a tiny miners cottage, Clem went onto become the first Blyth born footballer to represent his country.

Born at 40 Stone Row, Newsham on
6th February 1890, Clement was the youngest of three brothers who all became successful footballers.

Starting as a junior with New Delaval Villa in the Northumberland League, he went on to win the FA Cup both as a player and a manager.
He is the only Blyth born footballer to be inducted into the National Football Museum’s Hall of Fame.

The Stephenson brothers; Clem, Jimmy & George are without doubt the most successful footballing family the town has ever produced.
All three played for Aston Villa.
Clem and Jimmy guested for Leeds City in the Wartime League at the same time while George also gained the honour of playing for his country.

Their parents; father James born 2nd November 1859 in Birtley Co. Durham, was a colliery blacksmith. Mother Ann (nee Ternant) was born 9th August 1864 in Shilbottle.
They moved over the railway line from Stone Row, Newsham to Middle Row in New Delaval just before youngest brother George was born on 3rd September 1900.
By 1911 the family had grown to eight children, James and Anne actually had ten children but two sadly died.

• The Newsham and New Delaval areas of the town were only separated by the Blyth & Tyne North Eastern Railway line. With this area being called New Delaval it has led to many online references to Clem’s place of birth wrongly being stated as Seaton Delaval which is a village 5 miles south of the New Delaval area of Blyth.

Having caught the eye as a junior for New Delaval Villa, Clem was signed by West Stanley ahead of their inaugural season in the North Eastern League.
A successful first season saw them finish 3rd only missing out on the title by 3 points. Clem played two more season before they parted ways.

By December 1909 he was in a bitter dispute with the club, he believed they had broke the conditions of his contract and was therefore entitled to leave.
The Spartans made him an offer of ten shillings per week which he accepted.
However, West Stanley refused to allow him to leave so Clem took his case to the FA. Unfortunately, no records exist of how the Durham club had broke his contract so the exact details of the dispute are unknown.

Clem, pictured making his debut for Blyth at Bedlington United on Saturday 15th December, scored twice in the 3-1 Tynemouth Infirmary Cup Quarter Final win.

He struck up an instant understanding with fellow forwards Nicky Thompson and Peter Mackin. Their forward play was so admired by the Blyth fans they had a Music Hall song written about them.

Scoring 12 goals in only 19 appearances he soon attracted the attention of several league clubs.
First Division Aston Villa were determined to sign the 20 year old inside forward and sent club representative Wally Stange to capture his signature.
On Wednesday 16th March 1910 Blyth played Coxlodge Villa away in an Aged Miners Home Cup replay.
Having won 2-0, Clem scored the second goal, the players and officials celebrated afterwards in the nearby Coxlodge Hotel pub.
Wally Stange approached club officials, introduced himself and asked to speak in private to Clem about signing for Aston Villa.
They all went upstairs to a bedroom above the pub and struck a deal. Villa paid £75 up front with a further £100 due in February 1912.

He was sent out to Villa’s nursery club Stourbridge, playing the remainder of the season in the Birmingham District League.
Clem played the first part of their 1910/11 campaign before returning to Villa in February 1911.

His Villa debut came on 25th February aged 21, he scored the third goal in a 4-0 home win over Tottenham Hotspur.
He settled back into life at Villa, helped by his fellow Geordie housemates John Jeffrey and John Robinson.
All three shared lodgings at 13 Victoria Road in Aston Manor, the home of George & Anne Tooth.
He went on to make another four appearances that season scoring twice more.

In 1911/12 he played 20 times scoring 10 goals as Villa finished 6th, he had developed into an inside-left and became an England Trialist.
His performances quickly won praise and it was said his passes “were as sweet as stolen kisses!”.

The following season he played in all but 3 of their 38 league games scoring 14 goals as they finished runners up to Sunderland but it was his cup exploits that caught peoples attention. Scoring five times on the way to the Final, including the crucial winner in the Semi Final tie against Oldham Athletic.
He gained notoriety having claimed that he had dreamt on the eve of the 1913 FA Cup final that Villa would win the Cup.
Nothing too remarkable given he was to play the following day, however he also dreamt that team-mate Tommy Barber would head the winner.

In a bad tempered final, he wound up Sunderland’s Charlie Buchan during the match with his dream claim, and was unceremoniously pushed aside:
“Ah, get away with you,” was Buchan’s reply.
However, Barber did indeed head the winner as Clem won his first medal when Villa claimed the trophy for the 5th time.

On Thursday 23rd July 1914 Clem married Violet Scott at the Central Primitive Methodist Church in Blyth and their Reception was held at the Co-operative Hall in Newsham.
They would have two children who they named after themselves, Violet who was born a year after they got married and Clement in March 1920.

His career was then interrupted by the First World War, however Clem continued to play football as a ‘guest player’ throughout the war.
After working as a shell-maker in a munitions factory, on 28th January 1918 Ordinary Seaman Z/7344 joined the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve (Bristol Division).
He was posted to the RN Depot at Crystal Palace on 29th April 1918.
Subsequently spending much of his time as a physical training instructor and was promoted to the rank of leading seaman on 17th October 1918,  he was finally demobilised on 17th January 1919.

He had already guested for Hartlepool United and South Shields & District in the Northern Victory League. However it was his guest appearances for Leeds City during the war that wrote his name indelibly into the annals of the Elland Road club.

He first started guesting in February 1916 missing very few games as Leeds became one of the best teams in the land. They topping the Midland Section of the Principle Tournament in 1916-17 and again in 1917-18.
It was decided to have a play-off to decide the unofficial champions of England and there was pandemonium when Stephenson was not available for the two-legged final with Stoke in May 1918.
Leeds were fortunate to get the services of Billy Hibbert as Clem’s replacement and his goal helped Leeds to take the title.
Clem was back at Elland Road in 1919 to play the final months of the 1918-19 Tournament but Leeds could only manage fourth.
From 1916 to 1919 Clem played 91 times for Leeds scoring 44 goals.
This led to much speculation that Herbert Chapman was going to bring Clem to Leeds permanently after the end of the war, but it proved unfounded and he returned to play for Villa.
It was as a result of allegedly making irregular payments to such Wartime guests, like Clem, that brought a questionable end to Chapman’s career at Leeds City and led to the dissolution of the club in 1919.

He was an ever-present in Villa’s 1919-20 FA Cup win. He played in the Final against Huddersfield Town held at Stamford Bridge in front of a much reduced crowd of 50,018 which saw Villa take the cup thanks to an extra time winner from Billy Kirton.
He form saw him finally called up for England for their British Championship game against Wales on 15th March 1920. However much to everyone’s surprise he was selected for the game England lost 1-2.

Following two seasons at Villa in which he played 71 games and scored 39 goals, at the age of 31 and a decade on from his debut, his last game came on 5th March 1921.
When he was sold to Huddersfield Town, for £3,000 on 15th March he had played 216 times and scored 96 goals.
There was a growing feeling within the Villa board that Clem may have been past his best, but it transpired that a dispute over his continued residency in Newcastle had precipitated the transfer.
In what proved ultimately to be a self-defeating action, the Villa board ruled that all their players – including Clem – had to live in the local area.
The directors, the Daily Express later reported, wanted to guarantee the availability of all the players for daily training, but they only succeeded in alienating several employees, including Clem, who refused to relocate from his home in Northumberland. With no sign of a resolution in sight, the directors decided to cash in with his transfer.

Clem’s contribution to Villa and football in general was recognised by his nomination to the top 100 players in English league history. This accolade is held by only five other Villa players; Sam Hardy, Archie Hunter, Trevor Ford, Danny Blanchflower and Paul McGrath.
Tony Matthews states in his ‘Who’s Who of Aston Villa’ book that Clem was:
“An expert schemer, he passed the ball with fine judgement, was no mean goalscorer, could shoot with both feet, had good pace and was never afraid to rough it with the burly defenders.”

Herbert Chapman, now the Manager of Huddersfield Town, knew the player he wanted telling the board upon being appointed:
“You have talented, mostly young, players – they need a general to lead them. I know the man and I think we can get him.” 

Upon winning the 1922 FA Cup Final 1-0 against Preston North End, Clem became the first player in the Twentieth century to win three F.A. Cup winners medals.

Clem was appointed club captain, once again Chapman brought out the best in him.
In his 6 years as captain they never finished outside of the top 3 in the First Division, winning the title in 1923-24, 1924-25 and 1925-26.

Having represented the Football League on three occasions aged 34, he won his first and only International Cap.
On 3rd March 1924 he played inside left in England’s 1-2 British Championship defeat by Wales at Ewood Park, Blackburn.
The fact he was only awarded a single cap reporter Ivan Sharpe wrote:
‘A greater failure by England’s selectors I have never known,’

It was later written about Herbert Chapman’s successful side:
“Chapman bought perceptively, welded his assets together astutely and soon sent out one of the most successful League sides of all time. It was stubborn, disciplined and highly mobile with Clem Stephenson at the heart of everything.”

Clem turns away having just scored the opening goal in the 2-1 win against Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane on 14 March 1925.

When Herbert Chapman left to become Arsenal manager in 1925, he personally wrote to Clem:
“I want to thank you personally for your play, your wholehearted efforts both on and off the field. I have never had such confidence in any captain of a team I have been associated with”.

Clem made a total of 248 appearances for Huddersfield.
By the time Huddersfield achieved their success, he had reached the veteran stage in his career but had put his experience to good use.
In 1926 The Times wrote an article about Clem’s role in Town’s success;
‘In an era when the demand is always for speed, there has been nothing more notable than the success of the elderly player’.

‘The finely balanced Huddersfield Town team has been built round Stephenson. From his position at inside-left he has been leader and master-mind in tactics, and the success achieved during the past three years can be traced to his wonderful efforts’.

‘For three or four years he has been the general, the man who conceives the tactics to be set in force in a match, and who varies them to meet an emergency, and all the time, in spite of the fact that he has slowed down, he is still the supreme expert in launching an attack.’

Shortly before Herbert Chapman’s untimely passing in January 1934, in an interview extolling the virtues of older players, he stated:
‘Look how Huddersfield Town nursed Clem Stephenson so that they might get the last out of him … Clem was a fine tactician and an outstanding captain.’

On the 27th November 1928 he announced his intention to retire at the end of the season.
He did so on 27th May 1929 after 440 Football League appearances in which he scored 127 goals.
Upon retiring he was appointed Huddersfield manager, replacing the Jack Chaplin.
He served until 8 June 1942 becoming the clubs longest serving manager,
a record he still holds.
He led Town to second place in 33/34, only losing out to Arsenal by 3 points, The Daily Express stated about Town’s achievement:
‘The status of this club is a brilliant testimonial to the management. They always seem to be able to find the right type of player without pouring out a stream of gold. Clem Stephenson knows.’

Under Clem’s management he guided Town to two FA Cup Finals unfortunately losing both. The first to a Herbert Chapman’s Arsenal in 1930 and the other to Preston North End in 1938.
He also reached a semi-final in 1939, Huddersfield have never reached the
FA Cup semi-final since.
He oversaw two club records: their record 10–1 victory over Blackpool in December 1930 at Leeds Road and the grounds record attendance of 67,037 on 27th February 1932 for the FA Cup 6th Round defeat to Arsenal.

During the turbulent years of the Second World War, he made the decision to walk away from the game altogether and resigned as Town manager on 6th June 1942.
At that stage of their lives Clem and Violet were living at 69 Spa Wood Top in Huddersfield along with Violet’s parents, William and Mary.
After stepping away from the game he worked as a caterer and then a bookmaker in the town before passing away on 1969 aged 71. 

Rightly regarded as a Huddersfield Town legend Clem sadly died on 24th October 1961, aged 71 and he is still honoured to this day by the club.

In 2010 he was inducted into the National Football Museum’s Hall of Fame in honour of his contribution to the game.
Clem’s grandson, named after grandad, was presented with a memento by another famed Huddersfield Town striker and now club ambassador, Andy Booth.

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What became of his brothers –

• James Stephenson (10 February 1895 – 1 February 1958)
  Following in his older brothers footsteps James started with New Delaval Villa, before joining him at First Division Aston Villa in 1914.
  The first World War interrupted his progress at Villa Park, but he followed his brother to guest for Leeds City in 1916.
  He enlisted in the Royal Field Artillery (RFA) in May 1917 and was posted to France following completion of his training in Britain. Gunner Stephenson would subsequently take part in several actions on the Western Front and later served with the Army of Occupation on the Rhine.
  He returned to Villa Park in 1919 playing twenty League games before he was transferred to First Division Sunderland for £3,000 in May 1921 having played a total of 32 times for Villa.
  He only stayed one season at Roker Park playing 22 times before he joined Third Division South Watford.
  He enjoyed five seasons scoring 19 goals in 109 games.
  He joined Third Division South Queens Park Rangers in 1927, making eighteen appearances before having a spell at Non-League Boston Town in 1928. He returned to the North East a year later, playing for New Delaval Villa in 1929/30. After Ashington lost their league status they signed Jimmy for their inaugural 30/31 North Eastern League season.
  He then played one final season at New Delaval Villa again before retiring at end of 31/32.
  Working as a miner at Bates Pit in Blyth he sadly collapsed and died on his way to work one day aged only 64.

• George Ternent Stephenson (3 September 1900 – 18 August 1971)
  Unsurprisingly he also started playing for junior club New Delaval Villa in 1918 before joining Leeds City in 1919.
  He hadn’t made a first team appearance when the club was expelled from the League in October 1919 and disbanded.
  From November 1919 to November 1927 he played for Aston Villa, making his debut against Liverpool in December 1921.
  He was unfortunate not to feature in their 1924 FA Cup Final team. He established himself as a first team regular from the end of January 1925, scoring 22 goals in 95 appearances.
  There is a local legend that during the 1926 National Strike George decided to help boost the morale of the unemployed when he returned home to Newsham bringing a football.
  The unemployed men congregated on Gallacher’s Field (now the site of Blyth Golf Course) were they played football and cards all day and into the evening.
  He moving on to Derby County in November 1927, and was part of the team that were runners up in the League Championship in 1929-30 scoring 16 goals.
  He also became an England international, making two appearances in the 1928 tour of France and Belgium, scoring twice against France on his debut on 17th May 1928.
  He made his third and final appearance came in May 1931 in a 5-2 defeat to France.
  After four seasons at Derby, where he scored 56 goals in 120 appearances, he moved to Sheffield Wednesday in February 1931, scoring 20 goals in 45 appearances for The Owls.
  He signed for Preston North End in July 1933 and spent the 1933-34 season with them, scoring 16 goals in 28 appearances as they finished runners up in the Second Division and were promoted. He spent the last three years of his career with Charlton Athletic, joining in May 1934.
  He won the Third Division (South) Championship in 1934-35 and made it three successive promotions when Charlton finished runners up in the Second Division in 1935-36 and were promoted to the First Division, where he played 11 times the next season before he retired in 1936 after 12 goals in 53 appearances for Athletic.
  After being forced to retire he remained as part of Charlton’s backroom staff, becoming Assistant Manager in May 1938.
  Like his older brother he also became Huddersfield Town’s manager in August 1947 and stayed five seasons until leaving the post in March 1952. He then became a publican taking over the Sportsman’s Inn on New Crown Street in Halifax.
  After fours years as a publican he then worked as a technical clerk with Rolls Royce in Derby, he sadly died in 1971 aged 70. 

Not bad careers for 3 young lads from Newsham.

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Credits, Acknowledgements & Thank you’s:

The late Ken Sproat’s superb book ‘The History of Blyth Spartans’ was as ever an important source of information.

The following excellent websites provided important info and images:

https://www.avfchistory.co.uk/1910s-player-debuts-/clem-stephenson

http://www.englandfootballonline.com/TeamPlyrsBios/PlayersS/BioStephensonC.html

http://www.ozwhitelufc.net.au/leedscityprofiles.php/StephensonC.php

https://spartacus-educational.com/ASTONstephenson.htm

https://www.footballandthefirstworldwar.org/cleam-stephenson/

https://huddersfieldtowncollection.wordpress.com/cards-stickers-1928/

http://www.vintagefootballers.com

https://www.rootschat.com

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The history of Blyth Spartans kits and colours.

 

Blyth Spartans are well know for their rather unique green & white striped shirts, while a popular choice for European clubs in this country no other team from the National League upwards currently wear green and white stripes as their home kit.

The clubs history is full of varying styles of green & white tops and quite often different styles worn in the same season.
The current run of 54 years wearing stripes is the longest in the clubs history.

When Blyth Spartans Athletic Club were formed from the embers of Blyth FC, who folded in April 1899, the new club needed playing kit, that wasn’t green & white stripes though.
It consisted of white shirts, white shorts and red socks, the reason for that choice is unknown.
After initially only playing friendlies, the clubs first league competition was the 1901/02 Northumberland League season, wearing the white shirts, white shorts and red socks.

When the striped tops were initially used is unclear because the first ever team photo taken at the Travellers Rest Public House (which the club used as its base & changing rooms), is dated as ‘1901/02’ and they are wearing stripes rather than white tops.
However, it is documented that for the new 1902/03 season the famed green & white shirts were officially adopted as the clubs colours.
Striped tops were popular at the time, the old Blyth FC had worn black & white stripes. They had just acquired brand new kit before they folded, Blyth Thistle FC who by default became the leading team in the town took ownership of that new kit.

The first recorded newspaper reference to Spartans wearing green & white stripes appeared in the Blyth News report of the away game at Seghill Blake on the 18th October 1902.
The reporter commented that the contrast between the green & white stripes of Blyth and the red and white tops of Seghill ‘pleased him’.
As would be the case for many years to come old kit was still used at times, the red socks were often worn with the green & white striped tops. Ever since adopting the green & white stripes, white shirts have traditionally been the clubs away colours.

The actual reason behind the clubs choice of green will probably never be known, surprisingly there is no documented record of why those colours were chosen.
A vague thought by a town historian was that it may have come about due to the amount of green open space around the town in 1902!.
The colour has since become the choice of two other prominent sporting institutions in the town; the Rugby Club and the Running Club.
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With the origins of the clubs green & white stripes being unknown it led to the local legend that it was donated by Glasgow Celtic!
The legend had it that in 1902 Celtic were been due to play a friendly further south but due to bad weather they didn’t make it that far and allegedly played the Spartans instead.

Between 1889 and 1903 Celtic had worn green & white striped tops before adopting their now famous hoops.
Allegedly having helped Celtic out it was thought they give Blyth their strips!

However, that claim is simply not true
as the 1901/02 team photo proves.
It has also been debunked by Glasgow Celtic Football Club themselves and two people whom have published books about the Spartans.

In 2001 supporter Michael Scott published ‘and then the corner flag fell down,’ reflecting on his years supporting the club.
He contacted Celtic to establish any truth, upon checking their records they confirmed the Blyth game had not happened.
The only North East opposition they faced in 1902 was on 13th March when they played Newcastle United, winning 4-2, but the game took place at Berwick Cricket Club.

In 2013 club historian Ken Sproat published his superb history book, documenting the club from its origins. He had spent years pouring over every single archived ‘Blyth News’ paper that was ever produced. He was able to find out who owned the first ever football in the town and who played the first game, but there was absolutely nothing about the supposed friendly. 
For such a game to have taken place in 1902 it would have been well documented, in those days everything that happened in the town no matter how trivial was reported.
The clubs own playing records go back to the very first game played and the only recorded friendly in 1902 was against Sleekburn United on 1st February.
Also to his disbelief he found no reference whatsoever as to why green & white stripes were chosen as the teams colours.

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• The theories to why teams didn’t initially play in green varies wildly. In the late 1800’s the only colours widely available for kits were black, red, white and blue.
  
- There are claims that green was considered unlucky, possibly going back to the theatre days of the 1700’s. A green mat or cloth was brought onto stage for an actor to perform their dying scene on, as years passed green became associated with death.

  – There is also a theory that the colour green became very unpopular in the late Victorian years because there was no safe green dye. Bright emerald green was made from arsenic, once safer green dyes were invented people were still wary of the colour.

  – A claim exists that English clubs avoided the colour due to it’s connection with the troubles in Ireland. In the late 1700’s the English brought in a law that anybody wearing green could be punished by hanging after the was colour adopted by the Irish Freedom Fighters of that time. This is probably the logic behind Celtic and Hibs colour scheme as both clubs have Irish roots.

  – The common assumption that green shirts would clash with the goalkeepers top is   actually the wrong way around.

  Until 1909 keepers could wear only red, white or blue. As this meant some sort of colour clash green was added to the palette as fewer teams wore green. In 1912 the FA gave permission for green jerseys to be worn as a result it became the default colour for keepers.
  
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From 1902 to 1925 the club wore many styles of green & white stripes as the fashions of football tops changed with the times. Along with changes to the width and position of the stripes the other main change was to the neck/collar of the shirts, varying from buttons to string tied.
In the 20’s and through into the early 30’s the club used two different string tie shirts. They only differed by the colour and style of neckline. One had a white round neck and the other a green collar. 
As was be the case for many years the club reused shirts to save money. After discarding the string tie the green collar shirt was used again for several season’s. 

• 1922/23 had seen the very first move away from stripes. A pre season photo taken at Croft Park with all club officials and players shows them wearing an all green shirt with a white V.
  It was a very popular style top at the time and the first break away from the usual stripes or blocks of colours used in football tops.
  However, as throughout the club’s history these top were not worn exclusively and by the New Year the team were photographed wearing stripes again. The green shirt with white V reappeared 10 years later!
  The first ever action photo of the Spartans taken at the
  3-1 home win over Wallsend on 10th September 1932 shows them wearing the top. Unsurprisingly there is another image from that same season showing them wearing green & white stripes!
  By the very next season, 1933/34, they were back to wearing stripes which were worn up until the club closed up shop at the outbreak of WWII.

The post war years saw the shirt style change purely due to what the club could get.
New kit was supplied by sports outfitters M.Cropps, who had run a shop in the town since the 1832.
Quite often kit that had been worn for many years would be kept when new shirts were bought and reappeared a few seasons later as the club looked to save money and use what they had.
Officials would spend the time mending the kit rather than replace it, club legend Billy Fenwick often spent hours just darning worn out socks so they could be used again.

For the club’s first season after WWII, 1946/47, brand new white & green quartered shirts were worn for the single season in the Northern Alliance.
Election back into the Northern Eastern League for the following season saw the club return to the stripes they had worn in the NEL prior to the war.
However by 1950/51 they were back wearing new green & white quarter tops. As had happened before those new tops were not worn exclusively and many times that season the stripes were also used.

Barely four months into 51/52 season there was yet another change.
Prior to an FA Cup 1st Round tie at home to Bishop Auckland in November,
a game played in front of a then record home crowd of 9,468, new team kit was presented to the club.
The thriving Supporters Club which boasted two thousand members and a newly formed women’s section sourced and bought brand team new kit.
It was the beginning of a club tradition that still carriers on to this very day.
The solid green shirt with white arms was worn throughout the 1950’s in two different styles, one had a white collar and another had a white V neck collar.

Again the styling of the shirts mirrored the current fashion, the neck line was quite often the main difference, changing from a V style collar to a round neck and even a draw string collar reappeared in early 50’s tops.

Captain Arthur Swoden, wearing the changed kit greets the Hartlepools United captain.

The first known image of Blyth wearing away colours, the traditional white shirt, comes from 1957. Hosting Hartlepools United in an FA Cup 2nd Rd tie the club choose to wear their white shirts as United’s blue shirts were the exact same style as Blyth’s solid green one’s.

58/59 saw the club wear solid green shirts with a large white V collar, white shorts and white socks with green top as the first choice home kit. 
Even into the 60’s just when the club seemed to have settled on the use of stripes random changes still occurred.
In 1964/65 the club turned amateur when it joined the Northern League and a new round neck shirt was purchased.
That new shirt was the ever first to carry a crest, it wasn’t specifically the clubs own badge but the towns official crest with the club name underneath.
By 1966/67 the stripes were gone yet again as a green shirt with white arms similar to that worn in the 50’s returned, this time with the crest on it and also appeared on the white away shirts.
That town crest never appeared on a shirt again after the 66/67 season.

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• There has only ever been 3 official football club crests.
  The first came about at the beginning of 1980 when Chairman Jim Turney and newly appointed commercial manager, Mike Turnbull, decided the club needed its own identity.
  They ran a competition to design a club crest with an unknown local artist coming up with the winning design. Initially used for promotional & sponsorship purposes it first appeared on the clubs programmes for the 1980/81 season.
  While it was used on souvenirs and merchandise it never ever appeared on the teams kit!
  That logo served the club right through until 1993 when long serving club director and press officer Phil Castiaux worked with Kimmerston Design on a project to modernise it.
  That new design has stood the test of time and still serves the club right up until the present day.
  There was however a change to the design in summer of 1999, with the club celebrating its centenary it was incorporated into the design for the 1999/2000 season only.

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In Jackie Marks first season as manager, 67/68, there was a change in home shirt colour.
They wore white shirts with green collar & cuff trimmings, green shorts & white socks.
That kit was then worn as the away kit in subsequent seasons. 
Thereafter 67/68 season it has been stripes in varying styles right up until the present day.

• The clubs traditional colours are classed as the green & white stripes with black shorts and green socks, however over the years there have been many different combinations.
  In 1980 white socks were used with black shorts then in 1981 for the first time in a decade the club used white shorts and socks. Since then more often than not the shorts have been black and its the socks that have changed from white to green.
  Another popular combination; green & white striped shirts with green shorts and green socks has been used in the 80’s, 90’s and even up until the present day. 

In the 71/72 season Blyth reached the FA Cup 3rd Round for the first time ever, for the home tie with Reading the club were treated to a brand new home kit donated by two local businessmen, brothers Roy & Ian Caller. They were owners of the popular North East department stores; Callers and also happened to be the clubs Joint Vice Presidents.
They would continue to repeat their generosity for big cup games throughout the 70’s.

The first ever kit to carry the makers branding came in the 74/75 season, the Umbro kit came about due to a special occasion.
Having reached the FA Cup 1st Round, the club landed a plumb home tie with Preston North End.
Boasting two 1966 World Cup winners, Bobby Charlton and Nobby Stiles, the game attracted an all ticket sell out crowd of 8,500.
Again Caller’s brothers treated the club to brand new kit for the occasion. In the build up to the game the new home shirts were worn for a series of publicity photos, as modelled by club legend Brian Slane.

After drawing 1-1 the club strangely reverted back to their old style non branded home striped shirts for the replay at Preston! 
The new Umbro home shirts were alternated with the non branded shirts worn in that replay throughout the rest of the season.
A new Umbro branded all yellow away kit was also presented to the club and worn for the rest of the season, it was still being used as the clubs away kit right up until the early 80’s.

In 77/78 Burscough arrived at Croft Park for an FA Cup 1st Round tie with their solid green home shirt. With the overcast weather conditions potentially making it difficult for the match officials Blyth were forced into wearing the old 67/68 white home shirt for the game.

The Callers brothers repeated their generosity in February 78 with the clubs next brand marked kit. They bought a new away kit for the Stoke City FA Cup 4th Round tie.
Honouring of the shirt style of the 50’s they purchased Bukta kits that had a green body and white arms.
While this kit came with white shorts and socks, as worn at Stoke, when it was used thereafter it had varying different short and sock colours combinations.
The clubs famous Bukta branded striped shirts worn at Wrexham for the first time was also donated by the Callers brothers and that was also first time the club wore shorts with manufactures branding on.
The famous 77/78 season summed up the clubs kit history, three different styles of striped home shirts were worn throughout that season.

Following that  77/78 season the club was inundated with offers of green kits by various manufacturers, one extremely rare kit came in the 78/79 season.
A local derby at Ashington saw the Spartans wear a brand new all green kit made by Yorkshire firm Litesome. That kit was worn only on a handful of occasions often with black shorts & green socks before vanishing, with the all yellow Umbro away kit from 1974 being used instead.

The iconic Bukta home top served the club right through until end of 82/83 season. However in 1981 the club moved with the times and brought in a new shirt made be popular 80’s brand Le Coq Sportif.
That shirt was a first for the club, gone was the traditional cotton material, the French company used polyester fabrics.
Polyester kits had become increasingly popular and their designs more intricate as manufacturers cast an eye on the developing replica kit market.

The new home shirt featured a broader stripe and was worn with either black or green shorts and white socks.
There was also an all green Le Coq Sportif away shirt which was used with various colour shorts and socks.
Unsurprisingly it wasn’t worn exclusively and by the turn of 1982 the trusty old Bukta shirts began making an appearance from week to week.

That year was also a landmark for the club, after months of negotiating the club started the 82/83 season wearing their first ever shirt sponsor.
Chairman Jim Turney and forwarding think Commercial Manager Mike Turnbull had realised the need for wider income streams.
The Universal Building Society was emblazoned on a large white square that was stitched onto the iconic Bukta striped tops.
The season long deal also saw the companies name adorn pitch side sponsorship boards that had started to appear around Croft Park.
For the new 1983/84 campaign there was a change of kit due to a new shirt sponsor, the Mercantile Building Society started a four year deal and had their name printed in red onto a new shirt which didn’t carry any manufactures name.
There was a new all green away kit that also carried the red lettered shirt sponsorship, however random changes in the shorts and socks colour occurred seemingly depending on what was chosen for that particular game rather than any clash with opponents colours.

For 86/87 the stripes on a new unbranded home shirt became thinner and a new Nike branded yellow away kit shirt with was introduced.
There was also a rarely used Nike red third top, it used the same black shorts and socks as the yellow kit.

• The use of a Nike kit came about thanks to team manager Jim Pearson, the former Everton & Newcastle United striker worked for Nike as their as Head of Football in the UK. 
He played a pivotal role in the evolution of Nike into teams sports in this country.
  He was personally responsible for Nike signing deals with Arsenal and the England Rugby Union and signing up Ian Rush, Eric Cantona, David Ginola and cricketer Ian Botham to wear the Nike brand.

A new sponsorship deal was signed in 1988 with Northumbria Bus Company and their
‘N’ logo adorned the Falcon Sportswear made home shirts. The club continued with the Nike branded away kits long after Jim Pearson had left and both the home and away shirts carried the Northumbria Buses logo long after the sponsorship deal had ended.

As the clubs fortunes began to wane the early 90’s kit seemed to reflect this. Falcon Sportswear again supplied a plain and simple green & white unbrand marked striped shirt. 
Some enterprising Supporters Club members purchased a handful of extra shirts and took it upon themselves to get a Spartan crest added by a local embroidery shop.

The club was struggling to raise finances to the point that in late 1991 a make or break friendly with Newcastle United was arranged to help boost finances.
In early 1992 the club received a much needed lifeline when it secured sponsorship from iconic North East comic, VIZ.
It also marked the start of the Supporters Club selling replica shirts, previously only club jumpers, ties, scarves, mugs etc. had been on sale.
Even in the early 70’s Blyth shirts had only been available to buy from the towns long established sports shop, McCropps. They supplied the club with its playing kit, but ordered enough to sell to the public as well.

Contrary to what many believe the VIZ logo first appeared on the clubs kit at the end of the 1991/92 season. On Saturday 2nd May 1992 Blyth beat North Shields at St James’ Park in the Northumberland Senior Cup Final wearing the VIZ logo for the first time.

The club had struck a deal with Belgium sportswear company Activity through it’s UK Managing Director Peter Harrison.
The shirt featured a small embroidered club badge between the green stripes on right side of the shirt.

For the new 92/93 season Activity provided new shirt with a printed black club crest and also supplied a new yellow away kit. Both kits survived for a few years as the club did its usual changing of kits randomly from game to game.
The yellow away top was worn in the club’s last ever Northern league game at Ferryhill Athletic in April 94.

Having started selling Activity replica shirts the Supporters Club began to experience problems with supply from the company in 1993.
Activity also supplied shirts specifically for the Supporters Club to sell, they produce the same shirt in black & white and red & white stripes.
The shirts were never intended for team use but purely to cash in on Newcastle United & Sunderland fans who followed the club.

County Durham firm Hogger Sports stepped in to help supplying identical shirts. The shirt featured a bigger club badge and had a fleece like backing to the material and only seemed to be worn by the team when it was cold.
Hogger followed their predecessors lead and produced black & white versions of their tops for the club to sell.

For the new 93/94 season the Supporters Club sourced a new kit supplier, Hero Sportswear. The company based in Sutton in Ashfield, Nottinghamshire already supplied kits to other Non League clubs; Northwich Victoria, Stafford Rangers, Barrow & Kidderminster Harriers.
Hero Athletic & Sports stated they were: ‘Pioneering a return to a classically styled kits’, however the old fashioned tie string collar design had been already been introduced by Umbro!
The top which featured a stitched club crest on a shield proved hugely popular with the fans. It was also the first time another colour had appeared with the green stripes, a thin black line ran down either side of the each stripe.
This shirt is often wrongly stated as the first shirt to feature the VIZ logo. The bright red VIZ logo was actually a compromise, they had wanted to follow their comics humour with ‘drink beer, smoke tabs’ on the front of the shirts, unsurprisingly the FA rejected it and they settled for just their distinctive logo.

Throughout the 93/94 season the club randomly interchanged the Hero shirts with the long sleeved Hogger tops when the weather suited long sleeves and they also used the Activity shirt on odd occasions.
There was also a rare Hero Sport red away shirt that was only ever used once in February 94 for the 5-2 win at Hebburn.
Picking up on the red away kits lack of use an enterprising club Director snapped up the little used shirts for his 5 a side team to use!

In 1994/95 the club joined the pyramid system, leaving the Northern League for the Northern Premier League. 
Activity were now the sole kit supplier having solved their supply issues, the home shirt had a white collar and white cuffs and featured a large stitched crest.
The new shirt came due to the Federation Brewery now being he club’s sponsor and it carried the logo of their popular drink; LCL Pils.
A new all white away shirts was introduced and was worn for the first time in the 1-1 draw away at Netherfield on 27th August 1994. 

This one season wonder top was last worn on the 6th May at Harrogate Town when a 2-0 win to sealed the title. The full time celebrations led to the shirts demise as supporters claimed the players shirts as souvenirs, so a new away kit was needed.

The 94/95 season home shirt saw a slight change with the collar and cuffs now being green but otherwise it was identical.
The away shirt was a yellow top with a blue collar and blue trim on the sleeves, popular with the fans it lasted lasted until the end of the following season.

In November 1995 the club reached the 1st Round of the FA Cup, for the tie at Third Division Bury the club were supplied a special commemorative all red kit by Activity, it carried ‘FA Cup 1995/96’ embroidered under the Acitivty logo.
The shirt was identical to the style of the previous yellow away kit. Following the superb 0-2 win they also wore it again for the 2nd Round defeat at Stockport County.
After that it was only ever worn once again on 30th January 96 in the South Tyneside Football Benevolent Fund Gazette Cup tie at Hebburn. It was only worn due to the home sides black and yellow stripes clashing with Blyth’s green & white stripes and also the away kit of yellow.

Activity’s UK Managing Director Peter Harrison was installed as team manager following the win at Bury and not long after he opened his own sportswear shop.
A new ‘barcode’ style home was introduced for 96/97 and became an instant hit with the fans. The advantage of Harrison having his own shop allowed the Supporters Clubs to sell replica tops with the offer of your favourite players shirt number on the reverse.
A ‘new’ away kit was debuted at Spennymoor on 26th August 96, well it was a new colour for the club; burgundy.
The shirt itself was identical in styling to the previous yellow and red shirts, despite being popular with fans in the darker winter months many supporters commented that the colour made it difficult to see the players.

For the 97/98 season the Unibond League struck a deal with the Cumbrian based sportswear firm ICIS to be the leagues ‘preferred’ kit supplier. They were to supply teams with training kit and match balls, however from the off there was an issue with supply.
Blyth had to start the season wearing the old Activity kit, as the club officials demanded a resolution to the kit issues the team fought their way to the FA Cup 1st Round.
The Supporters Club was inundated with requests for the new kit which featured a different take on the traditional green & white stripes, a thin orange stripe ran down the middle of the white stripe. The club made a final demand to have the ICIS kit for their game at Blackpool, and ICIS guaranteed they would have the kit in time. 
To ensure they had a new kit for the game, manager John Burridge used one of his many contacts within the game and had Ulhsports produced and green & white strip for them to use in case ICIS failed to deliver on their guarantee.
ICIS did manage to supply the new kit, over 3 months late and the Spartans walked out at Bloomfield Road wearing a brand new kit.
The popular all orange kit was first worn in a 2-1 win at Radcliffle Borough on Saturday 22nd November.
Budgie’s back up Ulhsports kit did get used twice, first for a midweek training friendly against a Middlesbrough XI and it’s only public outing was in his final game as manager at St James’ Park for the 0-2 Senior Cup Final defeat to Bedlington.

1999 marked the club’s centenary and the popular ICIS home and away shirts carried the clubs new centenary crest created by Kimmerton Design. The LCL Pils logo was also made larger, the kit was only worn for the 99/2000 centenary season.

For the next two seasons the clubs kit was supplied by local firm Logitog, they carried the LCL Pils logo on the front of the home kit but not on the yellow away kit.
For the first time there was a different away kit sponsor, Miller Homes were building new houses in the town and were approached by club officials about being a shirt sponsor.

In 2002/03 & 03/04 the club used kit supplied by Moette Sportswear and it carried the new rebranded LCL logo. There were also occasions a long sleeve top were worn that no sponsors on them!
The Supporters Club were finding it increasingly difficult to find green & white striped shirts especially from manufacturers who could supply the quantity of replica tops needed.
The money the Supporters Club generated from the replicas always went back into the club in the way of donations or as happened in 1999 paying for the upgrading of the ageing tannoy system.

2004/05 saw a return to Nike kits but this time it was purely down to them having a green & white striped kit in their generic kit catalogue. There was also a new yellow Nike away kit that featuring blue collar and blue arms.

For three years from 2005 the club used kit by Hummel.

These shirts proved very popular with the supporters, a new sponsor was also introduced with Drager Safety on the shirts.

The away shirts went back to orange with black shorts & orange socks.
Once again it proved a popular kit colour, there was also a third kit white away kit. Different styles of Hummel kit were used up until the end of the 07/08 season.

In 2008/09 the club started to use Errea kit, the Italian companies kits were supplied by a local sportswear firm.
The 08/09 Errea home kit proved to be a classic as the club embarked on another of their famous FA Cup runs. Following a televised 2nd Round 0-0 draw at AFC Bournemouth the replay at Croft Park and subsequent 3rd Round tie with Blackburn Rovers attracted massive national media attention.
This was the first ever shirt to carry a sponsor on the back, Chairman Tony Platten’s company; Tynetec appeared above the shirt numbers. Ever since then the club have had a sponsor on the back of the shirts. 
The teams shorts had carried the VIZ logo since 07/08 season but they again fell foul of the FA over proposed a new sponsorship idea they had for the televised FA Cup games.
They had wanted a new logo, a ripped shorts effect with body hair showing, but ended up with having to settle for their logo on the shorts.

2010 saw the first ever acknowledgment to the club’s past with a new white away kit. Despite having had two white away shirts in recent years it was announced that the white shirt, white shorts and red socks kit was specifically based on the clubs first ever colours.

Differing styles of green & white Errea shirts continued to be used for the next four home kits.
In 2011 when a new shirt sponsor was needed the deal with Drager ended after 6 seasons, law firm Quantum Elite promoted one of their services
’24 Seven Claims’ on the tops for the next two seasons.

The 12/13 shirt also saw another colour appear along with the green & white stripes for the first time since 1997. The addition of a black line on the green stripe didn’t go down as well with the fans as the orange line had 15 years earlier.
In July 2013 the shirt stayed the same style as Quantum Elite continued their sponsorship but changed the branding to ‘Pro-Law’.

For the 2014/15 campaign a new shirt carried another new sponsor which was a first
for the club, Chairman Tony Platten paid for the shirt sponsorship deal himself.
He then donated it to a local charity, ‘Community Foundation, Tyne & Wear and Northumberland’. 
The charity certainly benefited from the philanthropist chairman’s gesture as once again the club embarked on an epic FA cup run. Reaching the 3rd Round again certainly drew the media’s attention especially when the dramatic 2nd Round win at Hartlepool United was broadcast live on the BBC.

2015/16 season saw the club use Yorkshire based sportswear company EV2.
For two seasons the same style kit was worn although it carried different sponsors for each;
Blyth Workspace then Ascent Homes.
The only difference in the shirts being the style of EV2 logo changing and the size of the club crest.
It was the kit worn when Blyth won the NPL title in 2016/17. It was a popular shirt with the fans but the Supporters Club encountered issues with sizing and supply.

Prior to 2017/18 the club announced it had returned to their former kit and merchandise partners Errea and S08 Sportswear. While the home kit would change every season the Supporters Club stated it aimed to keep the same away kit for two seasons.
The new home kit was bespoke, created to commemorate the 40th Anniversary of the famous 77/78 FA Cup run it was based on the kit the worn then.
That season also saw a brand away kit when a striking all silver kit was introduced. The shirt had a thin green pinstripe through it proved hugely popular with the fans.
In December 2017 it was announced that as part of a series of events marking that 77/78 cup run a special one off kit would be worn for a home game based on with the kit worn in the famous 3-2 FA Cup win at Stoke City in 1978.
To mirror the shirt as close as possible there was no sponsor’s logo on the kit, the first time a home shirt had been worn in a game without a sponsor in 12 years.

In keeping with recent designs the new bespoke home shirt for 2018/19 was also a nod to the clubs past.
Based on the iconic late 70’s & early 80’s Bukta shirt it carried the Errea branding on the arms replicating that iconic top.

The 2019/20 season saw another landmark in the clubs kit sponsorship when for the first time a sleeve sponsor was added. Home & away shirts carry the office supplies company; SOS Group Ltd logo.
The next three season saw new shirts sponsors for each season, although the 19/20 & 20/21 campaigns were cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

TEXO adorned the 19/20 home and away tops, the all blue away kit was a brand new colour for the clubs kit. 20/21 saw Complete Fabrication Services logo, CFS, on the new home & away kits. The away was yet another new colour with a ecru & maroon shirt added to the clubs ever expanding away kit palette.
21/22 saw another new shirt sponsor, the CEFO Group logo adorning the new home kit and the all maroon away kit.

In May 2022 the club announced it had signed a 3 year deal sponsorship deal with TEXO and they would to return as shirt sponsor.
It will be the 3rd different shirt sponsor in 3 years and TEXO are the 4th company to appear twice as shirt sponsor, it is the longest deal since 2011. 
The home shirt has a round collar for the first time in 50 years and was inspired by the home shirt worn back in the early 70’s.
The new away shirt once again added another new colour to the away shirt palette, lilac. The half lilac and dark blue blue shirt is the first half & half shirts the club have ever had, 22/23 season will be the 3rd season in a row with a brand new away kit colour.

May 2023 saw club release images of the new home and away shirts to be worn for the 2023/24 season.
For the first time the home kit features a detail within the green stripes. Different sizes of the Spartan helmet from the club crest are patterned in a darker shade of green.
The away kit is a return to a yellow shirt and is based on the Northumberland flag.
Club last wore yellow as an away shirt in 2016/17 and is 9th time yellow has been the away shirt colour. The new away top will be worn with red sorts & red socks.

In March 2024 it was revealed as part of the clubs forthcoming 125th anniversary celebrations that a new white kit was being released. 
Designed and created by the Supporters Club in conjunction with kit suppliers Errea, it honoured the first recorded shirt from 1901/02 season.
A limited edition of only 300 it carried a redesigned anniversary crest.
Shirt sponsor TEXO agreed to not appear on the shirt to allow it to be retro as possible.
The first team would wear the commemorative shirt with white shorts and red socks for the 2024/25 pre-season campaign.

List of the clubs playing kit sponsors –
2023/24 –
Front of shirt – TEXO
Back of shirt – JFS Torbitt
Sleeve – n/a
2022/23 –
Front of shirt – TEXO
Back of shirt – JFS Torbitt
Sleeve – SOS Group
2021/22 –
Front of shirt – CEFO Group
Back of shirt – JFS Torbitt
Sleeve – SOS Group
2020/21 – 
Front of shirt – CFS
Back of shirt – JFS Torbitt
Sleeve – SOS Group
2019/20 –
Front of shirt – TEXO
Back of shirt – JFS Torbitt
Sleeve – SOS Group
2018/19 –
Front of shirt – Community Foundation
Back of shirt – JFS Torbitt
2016 > 2018 –
Front of shirt – Ascent Homes
Back of shirt – JFS Torbitt
2015/16 –
Front of shirt – Blyth Workspace
Back of shirt – JFS Torbitt
2014/15 –
Front of shirt – Community Foundation
Back of shirt – JFS Torbitt
Back of shorts – 24 Seven Claims
2013/14 – 
Front of shirt – PRO-LAW.CO.UK
Back of shirt – JFS Torbitt
2011 > 2013 –
Front of shirt – 24 SevenClaims.com
Back of shirt – JFS Torbitt
2008 > 2011 –
Front of shirt – Drager
Back of shirt – Tynetec
Back of shorts – VIZ
2005 > 2008 –
Shirt – DRAGER SAFETY
2003 > 2005 –
Shirt –  LCL
2000 > 2002 –
Shirt – MILLER HOMES (Away shirts only)
1994 > 2003 –
Shirt – LCL PILS
1992 > 1994 –
Shirt – VIZ
1988 > 1992 –
Shirt – NORTHUMBRIA BUSES
1986 > 1988 –
Shirt – MERCANTILE
1983 > 1986 –
Shirt – MERCANTILE BUILDING SOCIETY
1982 > 1983 –
Shirt – UNIVERSAL BUILDING SOCIETY

List of the Clubs kit manufactures – 
ERREA – 2018/19 to date 
EV2 – 2016/17 & 17/18
ERREA – 2008/09 > 15/16
HUMMEL – 2005/06 > 07/08
NIKE – 2004/05
MOETTE – 2002/03 & 03/04
LOGITOG – 2000/01 & 01/02
ICIS – 1997/98 > 99/00
ULHSPORTS – 1998 – 1 off kit for NSC Final 
ACTIVITY – 1994/95 > 97/98
HOGGER –  1993/94
HERO – 1992/93
ACTIVITY – 1991/92
FALCON – 1988/89 > 91/92
NIKE – 1986 > 1988
BUKTA – 1982/83
LE COQ SPORTIF – 1981/82 & 82/83
LITESOME – 1980/81 & 1981/82 away kit only
BUKTA – 1977/78 > 81/82
UMBRO – 1974/75* > 77/78
* 1st ever brand marked kit

• As shown the history of the clubs colours and kits is quite varied, researching and documenting it proved quite a task but ultimately a worthwhile one.
  
  However, after hours and hours of searching through various archived local newspaper records the actual reason for the choice of green & stripes stripes has disappointingly proved elusive. Sadly there appears to be no record to be found as to why or indeed whom made that choice. 
  I will continue to search in the hope that one day I can somehow find out why our clubs famous colours where chosen.

————————–

Acknowledgements and Thank you’s  –

The late Ken Sproat’s superb book ‘The History of Blyth Spartans’ was as ever an important source of information.

Michael Scott’s book ‘and then the corner flag fell down,’ reflecting on his years supporting the club provided important information used.

Ian Hertwick of Blyth Spartans Supporters Club for supplying the graphics of the clubs kits and information on past kits and his memory of the kits sponsors.

Phil Castiaux for his help with the history of the clubs crests and of course his involvement in the actual crest itself.

Jeff Young for his superb knowledge of the clubs kits and use of his extensive collection of Blyth shirts.

Kevin Tilmouth for his use of his unique Spartans memorabilia collection and his vast knowledge of the club.

Andrew Tilmouth our use of his superb collection of Blyth shirts.

The superb British Newspaper Archive was a valuable source of information on the club’s history.

The following excellent football shirt website provided valued images and information used within this article –

http://www.historicalkits.co.uk

https://www.oldfootballshirts.com/en/teams/b/blyth-spartans/old-blyth-spartans-football-shirts-t120.html

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Born in Blyth – Albert Juliussen

Born in Blyth No. 3  – Albert Juliussen

Albert Lawrence Juliussen was born Friday 20th February 1920 to Norwegian parents, his father was a sailor who had settled in Blyth.

With the family living in Ninth Avenue he attended Princes Louise Road School, despite his small size compared to other boys and his sports teachers initial reservations Albert was the star of the school team.
He represented Blyth Schools Team between 1932 and 1934 and was also capped 4 times for Northumberland Boys.

He signed for Blyth & District League side Barrington United as a 15 year old and it was his performance against the Spartans Reserves on Saturday 9th November 1935 that led to Blyth signing the ‘clever outside left’.
A member of the Spartans Reserve team for the 1936/37 season he was unable to break into the first team and left to join East Cramlington Black Watch.
After a couple of seasons developing and growing he began attracting the attentions of league scouts, two former Spartans were interested.
Blyth’s first ever manager Ernie Hoffman, now secretary at Birmingham City traveled up to watch the inside forward in the 4-0 in win over West Moor on 19th March 1938.
While Birmingham waited and watched him in further games, he went to Leeds United on trial in September 1938. He played two Central League games for them and also their games for their ‘A’ team and United looked certain to sign him.
However it was a former Blyth player, now Huddersfield manager; Clem Stephenson who on a visit home had seen Albert play and landed his signature.
As an 18 year old apprentice he played for the Reserve team in 39/40 before Clem Stephenson helped out his former club and their hometown and loaned Albert to the Spartans.

The Northern Eastern League had been suspended following the outbreak of WWII but plans for a Wartime League were under discussion.
19 year old ‘Julie‘ made a scoring debut on Saturday 30 September 1939 in the 2-1 home friendly win over Ashington.
He scored in his next four appearances, including winning his first honour in the game when Blyth beat Ashington 3-2 in the Aged Miners Homes Cup on Saturday 14th October.
The Wartime North Eastern League started on Saturday 21st October when he scored both the 2-0 away win at West Stanley.

He played 6 times in all scoring 5 before this loan was brought to an abrupt halt, on Thursday 2nd November the club received word from Clem Stephenson informing them he was recalling Albert in order for him to play for them in the Wartime ‘North East Division’.
He was part of the Huddersfield side that won the league title by 9 points over 2nd place Newcastle United.

In 1941 as the war intensified he joined the Duke of Wellington Regiments and was enlisted and stationed in Dundee and Perth with the Black Watch as a PT instructor, it was during his time in Scotland that he really made a name for himself.
He soon became part of their all conquering regiment team which played their games at Dens Park.
In one incredible army game he scored six goals in the first half for a 6-0 lead and 45 minutes later it finished 6-5 with Albert having scored all 11 goals after been ordered to switch sides at half time!

Dundee United were first off the mark to spot his potential and he officially joined the Tannadice side on loan as a trialist having gained permission off Huddersfield Town.
His goal scoring prowess was immediately displayed hitting six in one match against St Bernards in a Scottish League North-East Division match.
He scored five against Rangers before being carried off, he is still the only United player to ever score a hat-trick against Aberdeen.
In 42/43 season he frequently guested with Jeanfield Swifts and spent the next season at the Perth based club, before returning to United for 44/45.

Dundee boss George Anderson had the centre-forward in his sights upon the club’s resumption towards the end of the war. Despite strong interest from Aberdeen they agreed record fee of £3,000 with his parent club Huddersfield. 
On Monday 14th May 1945 he did play for Aberdeen as a guest when they faced an All Star Air Force XI as part of their seven day tour of the North and the North East, he scored they only goal in a 1-5 defeat. He already faced the RAF’S two star player Stanley Matthews & Stan Mortensen when playing for a Combined Services XI against the RAF side at Links Park, Montrose.

He actually signed for The Dee on the morning of the first game of the new 45/46 campaign and made an astonishing start to his Dark Blue career when he scored with his first touch in a 2-1 home victory over East Fife.

Now developed into a strong physical centre-forward, known to the fans as “The Cannonball Kid’ he possessed a tremendous left foot shot. In one match against Alloa he inadvertently knocked out keeper Frank Harper three times with howitzers which all ended up in the back of the net!
His most famous feat came with that win over Alloa scoring 6 goals in the 10-0 win only to follow this up with 7 goals in another 10-0 over Dunfermline just a week later. At one point the Dunfermline keeper stepped aside when ‘Julie’ was bearing down on him saying ‘you can have it’.
His shoot-on-sight policy brought him 42 goals out of a total of 120 as they won the B Division title by ten points from East Fife.
They had been relegated to the second tier on the eve of the Second World War but the first full season back upon the cessation of hostilities was considered by the Scottish League to be unofficial as clubs were given a year’s grace to ‘put their house in order’.
With so many guests and loan players at clubs and many players still in military service, it was decided that there would be no promotion and relegation in the 45/46, so to return to the top flight they would have to win the league all over again.

Incredibly they did just that and this time bettered the previous season’s goal tally 130 goals in 35 league and cup games. On the way to winning their second championship, Dundee put themselves into the record books with astonishing back to back 10-0 victories.
On Saturday 8^th March they ran up a 10-0 win over Alloa Athletic at Recreation Park and ‘Julie‘, who had recently been playing at outside-left, celebrated his return to a central position with six goals.

Dundee’s first season back in the A Division saw them finish a credible fourth and ‘Julie’ was again top scorer with 20 goals in all competitions, proving he could score as easily in the top flight.
Towards the end of the season he had indicated to manager George Anderson that he wished to return back south and just after scoring in his last game against Falkirk in March, he signed for Portsmouth for a fee of £10,000.
£7,000 more than they had paid for him three years earlier and a record fee received for a Dundee player at that time.

He had scored spectacular goals and become a cult hero with the Dundee support, his sudden departure sparked a barrage of criticism but George Anderson was adamant that there was no room for unhappy players at Dens Park.
‘Julie’ was a goal scoring machine in his time in Dark Blue scoring 95 goals in 73 appearances, his seven goals against Dunfermline is a joint club record with Alan Gilzean.
He brought hope and joy to a war weary Dundee, his goals fired Dundee back into the big time.

• During his time living in Dundee he had meet Wilma Lee and on Monday 15th September 1947 they were married. Such was his star status in the town news of their marriage ceremony taking place drew a crowd of 300 fans to greet them as they left registrars office in City Square.
  Also lying in waiting were his Dundee teammates who placed a large wooden shoe horse around his neck hosted him aloft and triumphantly carried him to the near by Royal British Hotel where the reception was being held.

Having made the move down south he struggled to settle on the south coast, suffering an alleged illness that delayed his Pompey debut.
27 year old ‘Julie’ would only make 7 appearances in total amid rumours that it was the warmer air on the south coast that he was struggling with due to a bronchial condition!
His Pompey came on Saturday 13th March in the 1-0 defeat at Blackburn Rovers, he then made his home debut in the 1-0 win over Man City as week later.
On Saturday 14th April he showed his true ability scoring a hat trick in the 6-1 hammering of Middlesbrough at Fratton Park. He would scored once more in the 2-0 win at Everton on 24th April.
In September 1948 New Toffee’s boss, Cliff Britton having been impressed when he encountered him against his former club Burnley, decided to pay a then club record for ‘Bert‘.
Trying to sort out their forward problems he felt the £10,500 was good value for the a player who struggled to settle at Portsmouth hoping a move back north might suit him better.

He made his debut on Saturday 4th September in the 0-5 home defeat to Birmingham City, but the Everton fans and local press were far from impressed with their new signing after his debut!
His only goal for the Toffee’s came four days after his debut. He scored the open win the 2-1 home win over Stoke City. He would go on to make only another 8 appearances for the club before an injury at St Jame’s Park on 18th December in the 0-1 defeat to Newcastle effectively ended his Everton career.
All may not have been as it seemed, however, legend has it that even in the communal bath he insisted on keeping his football socks on, and it was rumoured that he had varicose viens – not ideal for a First Division footballer.

Having recovered he was placed on the transfer list and he headed back up to Scotland looking for a new club, with no offer forthcoming he moved back to the Northumberland coast settling in Newbiggin.
While he technically remained an Everton player available for transfer it was agreed he’d be allowed to carry on playing part time.
Blyth Spartans stepped in straight away making him an offer to join them for the 49/50 North Eastern League campaign. It was the best offer the club had ever made to a player and despite being confident of bringing ‘Julie’ back to Croft Park and even offering him a job as part of the deal they faced competition for his signature.
Aside from local rivals North Shields being interested, Welsh side Bangor City also made him an offer.
The Lancashire Combination League side were managed by his former Huddersfield teammate; George Richardson. He hoped to be able to entice him to North Wales but to everyone’s surprise it was Blyth’s North Eastern League rivals Consett FC who captured his signature. He accepted their offer of the post to become their first ever Player Manager and a package that included a house and a job.
Having recently applied to join the Football League the Steelmen had big ambitions and saw ‘Julie’ as the man to help drive the club forward.
He made his debut on the opening day of 49/50 season in the 1-0 home whin over Carlisle United Reserves, but the disappointment of the huge crowd he didn’t score.
They didn’t have to wait long he bagged his first goal in the second game as they beat Eppleton CW 2-1.
He went on to score 24 goals that season, including two in the famous 5-4 win over the mighty Bishop Auckland, who team included three England Amateur Internationals in a Durham Challenge cup tie played in front of a record crowd at Leadgate.
Despite scoring 24 goals, to most Consett fans his most valuable contribution came on Saturday 8th April 1950 at Roker Park Sunderland, when his goal beat Spennymoor united to win the Durham Challenge Cup Final.
They finished the season in 12th place, but hopes were high for a better showing the following season, as they moved into their new Belle Vue Park ground, which had been funded by the sale of players to Football League clubs, and built by volunteers from the town’s steelwork when they weren’t on shift!

The opening match on Saturday 19th August 1950 was preceded by a civic parade through the town with the cup which Julie’s goal had secured. Sunderland Reserves were the visitors in a North Eastern League game. 
A crowd of 7,000 – which would never be bettered during Consett’s 63 years at the ground – saw the Ironworkers show their mettle by beating the Rokermen’s reserves 3-1, ‘Julie’ scored the third goal.

If his first season in Consett colours had been impressive, the second was even more so – he plundered 41 goals. His haul included four in a 6-1 league cup defeat of Middlesbrough Reserves, and he also bagged a brace against Boro in the league, and repeated the trick against the second strings of Sunderland and Darlington.
It was to little avail though; Consett finished 13th, a place lower than the previous season, and ‘Julie’, who spent most of his time with the club playing inside-left rather than his usual centre-forward role, decided to move on.

He did leave by delivering silverware of sorts though: his final game was a 1-1 North Eastern League Challenge Cup final draw with Stockton, which there was no time to re-play, so the trophy was shared, with each club keeping it for six months.

In August 1951 he got back into the professional game when Berwick Rangers struck a deal with Everton who still had him on their transfer list valued at £10,000.
However Rangers brokered a deal where they got him for free on the provision that Everton got the first £5,000 of any future sale if he was to be transferred again for a fee of over £5,000.
Player Manager Bobby Ancell’s side had just been elected to the Scottish League C Division and ‘Julie’ was a star for the two seasons at Shiels Park. He was highest paid player they had ever had up to that point, he was also on a bonus if he fired them to promotion and bagged 30 goals in the process. They provided him with a house and he had plans to settle and become a market gardener in the town.
A year into his time at Berwick he was touted for the managers job after Bobby Ancell left to join Dunfermline in April 1952. Despite being the fans choice he wanted to concentrate on playing and John Thompson was appointed the new manager.

In June 1953 it was announced that he had signed for Dundee United. He left Berwick having been a huge success in his two years, he scored 49 goals and is the clubs 9th all time leading goal scorer.

His return Perthshire wasn’t as successful as his previous time there. Playing only 3 games for United in Division B scoring twice before moving to Brechin City who were top of Division C with only three games to left of the 53/54 season.
City easily saw off Montrose before their stern test against East Fife ‘A’.
‘Julie’ scored the goal in the 1-0 win that put them within a victory of the Division C title.
400 City fans made the trip to Glasgow for the winner takes all game against Celtic ‘A’. The game attracted an 11,000 crowd and unsurprisingly it was ‘Julie’ who got the goal to seal a 1-0 win and the Division B title.
It was a fitting swan song to the career of the 34 year old forward who then retired from the game.
The family settled back in Dundee were he ran a bar on Albert Street, and the name of the bar, The Albert!

Sadly he passed away on 6th April 1982 aged only 62.

• From a Princess Louise Road school boy once thought to be too small for his school team Albert became a legend of Scottish football.
  In the years directly after WWII he was the star footballer in Scotland, the ultimate forward.
  Tall strong and hard running he scored goals for fun.
  He had worked hard to make it and fully deserved all the adulation he got, little surprise he is a footballing legend in Dundee. 

—————————————————————-

Credits, Acknowledgements & Thank you’s:

Consett FC historian Gary Welford for supplying the information on Albert’s time at the club. 

The late Ken Sproat’s superb book ‘The History of Blyth Spartans’ was as ever an important source of information.

The superb British Newspaper Archive was a vital source of info on Albert’s career.

The following websites provided important info and images –

https://www.arabarchive.co.uk/player.php?id=566

https://dundeefc.co.uk/news/juliussen-to-enter-hall-of-fame/

http://www.lawrence-juliussen-photography.co.uk/albert-juliussen-julie/

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Born in Blyth – Stephen Raffell

No. 2 – Stephen Raffell RIP

Born Monday 27th April 1970.
Playing for the hugely successful Cramlington Juniors he had trials with Nottingham Forest before joining Doncaster Rovers Youth set up aged 16.

He was key member of the Rovers much acclaimed Youth Team which reached the FA Youth Cup Final in 1987-88, losing on aggregate to Arsenal.

Earlier that season he had made his senior debut on 23rd September when Rovers faced Arsenal’s first team in a League Cup 2nd Round tie, he kept his place for the 2nd Leg at Highbury, they lost 0-4 on aggregate.

While breaking into Rovers first team in his natural position as a central defender Steve was twice called upon as an emergency goalkeeper for the first team in 88/89.
Once when keeper Paul Malcolm was sent off, the other when the tall stopper suffered a broken leg.
In all, he made 63 senior appearances for Rovers in 2 seasons before leaving in the summer of 1990. He had a trial with Division Four Walsall but not offer was forthcoming.

Former Doncaster Player Manager David Cusack had been appointed Player Manager of GM Vauxhall Conference Boston United and knowing Steve well from their time at Rovers quickly signed him up for the 90/91 season.
He made his debut in the 4-1 league home win over Fisher Athletic on 22nd August.

Stephen spent 2 successful seasons at United making 52 appearances before returning to his native North East in the summer of 1992.

He was quickly signed up by Blyth manager Ronnie Walton as he continued to build a young talented side.
He made his debut on Wednesday 12th August in the 4-1 Cleator Cup Final win over Murton. He would go on to make 45 appearances that season with his experienced at a higher level clear to see.

In 93/94 season under the new management of Peter Feenan he played in 45 of the 49 games in the club’s final season in the Northern League. 

In his 3rd season, 94/95, he had his 3rd manager as Harry Dunn took charge of the club’s first season in the Northern Premier League.

In October 94 after only 8 appearances and unable to command a regular starting place due to stiff competition with four other centre half’s; John Gamble, Shaun Dunn, Laurie Pearson & Warren Teasdale, he decided to move on to guarantee regular football and joined the growing band of former Spartans at Bedlington Terriers.

He agreed that manager Harry Dunn retain his registration in case he was ever ‘needed’ and with players struggling for time off to make a midweek FA Trophy replay at Colwyn Bay in February Steve was more than happy to step in.

With Blyth battling for promotion and facing 10 games in April, Harry Dunn brought Steve back to Croft Park permanently. He played a vital role partnering John Gamble as Blyth won the First Division title and the First Division Cup.

In 95/96 when Blyth reached the FA Cup 2nd Round for the first time in 15 years and finished 6th in the NPL Premier Division he made 36 appearances and was voted the Supporters Club Player of the Season.
A season that also saw him play under his 4th Blyth manager !.

96/97 saw him play under yet another manager when John Burridge replaced Peter Harrison, he made 36 appearances winning the Presidents Cup when Blyth beat Runcorn.

In the summer of 1997 he moved to Manchester to further his career as a teacher and was quickly snapped up by league rivals Hyde United.
He made his Tigers debut on 22nd September 97 in the 1-0 home win over Emley, he played 8 more games before signing for NPL 1st Division Trafford, winning the First Division Cup in his first season at the club.

He played 88 games for ‘The North’ winning the Presidents Cup in his final season before hanging up his boots aged 30 to concentrate on his job as a teacher.
His final game came back in the North East on 6th May 2000 when he came on as sub on Trafford’s final league game of the season at Whitley Bay.

On 15th November 2000 Stephen took up his other great sporting love, rugby.
He signed for Orrell RUFC and played consistent first team rugby for over a decade.            
He was highly respected on and off the field not only by his team mates but opposing players as well.

Thursday 2nd December 2021 brought the tragic news that Stephen had sadly away aged only 51.
He had been diagnosed with MND in 2017 and had been bravely battling the illness like the true Spartan warrior he was.
The news brought an out pouring of sorrow and glowing tributes from his former teammates in both football and rugby. Teammates and supporters alike to a person stated what a genuinely great guy Stephen was.

• Stephen played a total of 178 for his hometown club in an ‘eventful’ period in the clubs history.
  He played under 5 different permanent managers, a caretaker manager and a Coach & Director of Football and in 3 different leagues.
  He played a vital role in the club’s transition from Northern League to Northern Premier League.

  His honours as a Spartan –
  94/95 –
  NPL 1st Division title
  NPL 1st Division Cup
  Senior Cup Runners Up medal

  95/96 –
  FA Cup 2nd Round appearance
  Senior Cup Runners Up medal

  96/97 –
  Presidents Cup winner.

Always reliable, he was able play anywhere along the back four and often played in midfield, Raff was very much an unsung hero of Blyth Spartans. 

RIP Stephen.

Taken far too soon he’ll never be forgotten.
The Blyth lad who lived the dream in becoming a professional football and playing for his hometown club. 

 

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Acknowledgements & Thank you’s…

Thanks to Christian James the oracle of Boston United stats for providing images of Stephen at United – @bsotonutdstats

Thanks to @FCTrafford for providing details of Stephen’s time at Trafford Football Club.

The excellent Boston United History website – http://www.bufc.drfox.org.uk/history.html
provided all the details of Stephen’s time at United.

The excellent Hyde United History website – http://www.hydeunited.com/home.php
provided all the details of Stephen’s time at Hyde.

 

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Born in Blyth – Micky Pink

This new series that features players that were born in the town and played for the club some stage of their careers.

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No. 1 – Micky Pink

Michael Pink was born Friday 24th October 1947.

He attended Morpeth Road Primary and Bebside Primary, playing for his school and then Blyth Boys from 1957 to 59.

Attending Blyth Grammar School from 1959 to 66 he starred for the school teams and was selected to play for the Northumberland County team.

He was signed by Blyth Spartans in October 1965 making his debut on 30th October in the 2-4 league defeat at home to Evenwood days after his 18th birthday.

His first goal for his hometown club came on Saturday 13th November, scoring the winner in the 1-0 league win at home to Billingham Synthonia.

In December 1965 he fell foul of the Grammar School Headteacher,

Mick rejected his selection for the Northumberland County Grammar School side in order to play for the Spartans! 

The Headteacher, Mr Lloyd, was so furious that he wrote a letter to Mick’s parents (which the family still have) he suggested Mick’s conduct might seriously prejudice his ambitions of gaining acceptance into any teacher training college. 

The letter also mentioned that Mick had been invited for a trial at Leicester City FC but that the Head had refused permission, as it was during school time! 

In January 66 Mick did have a trial for Chelsea FC, as it took place on a Saturday Mr Lloyd was unable to stop it.

Chelsea boss Tommy Docherty was so impressed he invited Mick for a second trial but, yet again, Mr Lloyd intervened and refused permission as it was midweek!

Moving away to pursue his ambitions of being a teacher he attended Chester PE College (now Chester University) from 66 to 69 where he played for the college team. 

He then taught PE in Liverpool from 69 to 73, while on Merseyside he played for Marine FC for 3 seasons.

In the 70/71 Cheshire League season he finished top scorer with 14 goals, he also briefly played Ormskirk FC at start of the 73/74 season.

In September 1973 he returned home to take up a teaching post in Newcastle.
Naturally he rejoined the Spartans and lived only 150 yards from Croft Park.

His first goal back was also against Billingham Synthonia on 1st September in the 2-1 home win.

He scored 16 goals in his first season back, as Blyth lost out on the title after a ‘Championship Play Off’ defeat to Spennymoor.

In the Invincible’s 74/75 season he forged a great partnership with Brian Slane.
Micky played every single game of the season scoring 23 as Blyth went the entire league season unbeaten and he even got to play against 2 of England’s 1966 World Cup heroes in the FA Cup when Blyth faced Preston North End.

On Wednesday 16th April he scored the winner at St James Park as Blyth beat Blue Star 2-1 to win Senior Cup Final.

A feat he repeated in the 1976 Final when Blyth drew 1-1 with North Shields.
He scored the clubs first goal of the 76/77 season in the 1-1 opening day draw at Horden.

However after 13 more appearances which brought 6 more goals his Blyth career sadly came to an abrupt end.

Back Row (LtoR): Dave Burowski, Alan Cruddace, John Lang, Ronnie Phillipson, Micky Pink, Mick Third, Ronnie Scott, Alan O’Neill. Front Row (Lto R): Mickey Lister, Gordon Smith, Eddie Alder, Brian Slane, Mick Dagless, Ian Nixon. Inset Gerry Donoghue.

On Saturday 29th January 77 he badly broke his leg in a clash with Whitby’s goalkeeper John Hope in the 0-2 away league defeat.

He did recover and singed for North Shields for the 77/78 season, he made 8 appearances scoring his first goal for the Robins on 19th November in the 4-0 away league victory. However after picking up an injury he left North Shields and ending his playing career  Sunday football for Bedlington.

Mick’s 62 goals in his 165 appearances for the clubs put him in 31st place in the all time goalscorer list.

His honours as a Spartan include –

1973/74  – 

FA Cup 2nd Round appearance

Northern League Runners Up medal

Senior Cup Winners medal 

1974/75 –

FA Cup 1st Round appearance 

Northern League Winners medal

Senior Cup Winners medal 

1975/76 –

Rothmans Cup Final Runners Up Medal 

Senior Cup Runners Up Medal

It quite easy to see why Micky Pink is a Blyth legend.

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Thank yous and acknowledgements –

A massive thank you to Mick’s daughter Suzanne for supplying me with loads of great information on her father.

Thanks once again to North Shields FC Chairman Alan Matthews for providing details of Micky’s time with them.

 

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Green & White Cult Heroes – Terry Johnson

Certain names are synonymous with specific events in the history of this great club.
Upon hearing the name; Terry Johnson
your instantly taken back to the famous events of 1977/78.

Terry joined the Spartans in July 1977 with a pedigree of over 250 Football League appearances.
He would never have imagined that stepping down into part time football would propel him to a level of fame far greater than his years in the professional game.

However, but for the sake of having a passport it could have been a very different career for one of the most legendary Spartans ever.

Born 30th August 1949 in Benton, Newcastle Terry had started playing for his school team and then South East Northumberland Boys when he was spotted by United.
Playing for United’s Under 18 teams he signed as a professional aged 17; on exactly the same day Dave Clarke signed for United.

Terry played for United’s Junior and Central League teams, he was top scorer with 34 goals in his first season playing in the Central League and was highly rated by the club’s coaching staff.
He had been training with the first team since the start of the 68/69 season.
Having impressed the management, he was part of the travelling party for the  
4-1 win at Ipswich on 12th October 68.
He was then named as a sub for the 0-1 defeat at Stoke City on 7th December 68, but never got on despite United needing a goal.
On 21st December Terry was again included in the party to travel down to London for the QPR game but this time missed out on being named as a sub for the 1-1 draw in which his Reserve team strike partner Alan Foggon scored.

Joe Harvey and his management team had finally planned to give Terry his big break, United were due to play in Spain in the Inter Cities Fairs Cup 3rd Round on New Years Day 1969.
Being picked ahead of £75,000 summer signing Jackie Sinclair for the 1st Leg tie at Real Zaragoza was his big opportunity.
But there was one very big snag, 19 year Terry didn’t have a passport!

Club officials tried get him one but due to the time of year and the quick turn needed it couldn’t happen in time.
Heartbreakingly he had to stay behind in Newcastle while Sinclair took his place on the plane to Spain.
That was as close as he ever got to breaking into the first team, despite being a first team squad member for the 69/70 season he never got a look in.

In October 1969 Hartlepool boss Angus McLean approached Joe Harvey about taking Terry on loan. While United were open to the deal, Terry was not so keen to join the 4th Division side: “I’m afraid I just didn’t fancy the set up down there. I’ve decided to make this my make-or-break season at Newcastle, so I’m staying put until the end of the season at least”,
he told The Newcastle Journal.
A month on and Joe Harvey felt Terry needed the experience he would gain from a loan playing in the Football League.
With a continued lack of first team opportunities.



On 11th November he finally agreed to go out on loan and spent November at Darlington. He played four games for Ray Yoeman’s Fourth Division side scoring once.

Now the owner of a passport, he was included in the squad for United’s end season tour of North America & Canada.
It proved a great success for Terry, he got games on the three week tour and even scored in the 4-3 win over Vancouver Spartans on 18th May.
Off the back of that successful tour he felt his chance would come in new the season, but again it never happened despite continuing to impress for the Reserves.
He could only watch on at the thought of what could have been as his Reserve team strike partner Alan Foggon carved out first team career.

In January 1971 Newcastle’s management decided to a have clear out and made it known they were open to offers for several players.
Unsurprisingly, Terry was one of them in his last season he scored 15 Central League goals but his time as a Newcastle player ended in frustration.
He received yellow cards in three consecutive games, it led to a £25 fine a two week suspended sentence and being ordered to take a referee’s course on the rules of the game!

United were not short of offers for their players and Terry was on the radar of an unlikely Fourth Division club.
All time record goalscorer in English League football, Arthur Rowley was enduring a tough time as Southend manager and was on the look out for talented young hungry players and had been tipped off about Terry.

On Tuesday 19th January Rowley drove up to Wolverhampton to watch Terry play for United’s reserves, despite the 0-2 defeat he was suitably impressed with the 21 year old.
Rowley arrived in Newcastle on 26th January to meet the two players he wanted, Terry and wing half Dave Elliott.
While Elliott asked for time to visit the area before making a decision, there was no such hesitation from Terry.
Having taken advice from the legendary Jackie Milburn he had already decided to leave and forge a career elsewhere, accepting the move straight away with a £7,000 fee being agreed between the clubs.

A move down to Essex to play for a club struggling near the foot of the Fourth Division may have seemed a strange choice for someone born and brought up on Tyneside but it proved an inspired one.
Terry and he was an instant hit, three days after signing, Friday 29th January, he was handed his debut.
He instantly delivered scoring the winner in the 1-0 win over York City at Roots Hall.
He played in their final 21 games of the season scoring 8 goals as United climbed to safety with a 17th place finish.

Having missed out on a foreign adventure a year and half earlier, July 1971 provided Terry with a taste of European football but the destination was a surprise. Southend officials arranged a pre season tour of the Soviet Union!
They played four games against Soviet teams and in return Shahkter Donesk would visit England in the November to help cover the cost of the trip behind the Iron Curtain.
The tour was a success despite losing all four games but Terry did become the only ever Southend United player to score in the Soviet Union, in the 1-2 defeat to FC Metallurg Lipetsk on 31st July.

• Come the November when Shahktar were due in England the political landscape had changed. United officials had arranged for them to also play St Johnstone, Oxford & Bristol City but a week before they were due they cancelled the tour.
  An embargo had been placed on all sporting & cultural visitors to Britain so United officials were left out of pocket and unable to recoup anything from the summer trip to the Soviet Union.

The 1971/72 season proved to be a great one for the club, Terry was a virtual ever present playing as a winger scoring vital goals as they finished Runners Up and gained the club’s first ever promotion.
The step up a Division didn’t prove an issue as Terry rose to the challenge, they finished a comfortable 14th. He was awarded Player of the Year for his performances in 72/73.

In November 74 Terry was the subject of an approach by long time admirers Brentford.
Having been promoted to Division Three with United in 72 the Bees hadn’t fared as well and were relegated the following season.
They knew all about Terry’s abilities from that season United had pipped them to Runners Up spot by a single point.
Bees boss Mike Everitt had agreed the £15,000 transfer but Terry had to decided if he wanted to drop down a league. Eventually he felt a change was needed, after all he’d achieved with the Shrimpers he’d surprisingly become the target of barracking by some of the fans.

Once again he scored on his debut, 16th November 74 he scored the second in a 2-3 defeat at Hartlepool United.
He would score another seven in his 30 appearances that season as they finished 8th under new manager John Docherty.
1975/76 saw a strong start to the season, they won three and drew three of the first six league matches of the season.
They advanced to the League Cup 2nd Round only to lose to Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Terry scored 14 in his 46 appearances, he was second top goal scorer and made the second highest number of appearances although they finished in 18th, just 3 points about the re-election zone.

Football wise the move proved a good one, moving to live in Greater London less so. In February 76 he asked to be placed on the transfer list with the view to hopefully moving closer to home.
Terry, his wife and young daughter were living in a club owned house, they had wanted their own property but simply couldn’t afford one.
Having started on a basic wage of £45 per week, he had asked for a £5 wage rise at the end of his first season but that was refused, having only been at the club eight months he accepted the decision.

At the end of a good 75/76 season, Terry felt in a stronger position so asked for a pay rise. Bees flamboyant Yugoslavian Chairman, Dan Tana informed him that he had wanted to give all his players a £15 pw rise but the club were only allowed to give them a £6 rise due to government restrictions!

76/77 started three consecutive defeats, he scored the clubs first goal of the campaign in the 2-2 draw at home to Doncaster Rovers on 4th September. He also scored in the first win on 18th September as they beat Southport 3-0.
From a wide midfield birth he scored 8 in 25 appearances, with 3 penalties he had a 100% record from the spot.
On the 11th December Brentford played Colchester away in an FA Cup tie, it led to Terry being ruled out for eight weeks.
On a frozen Layer Road pitch he fell and broke his arm, after being subbed the game was then abandoned due to the deteriorating icy conditions!
After eight weeks in a cast he returned to first team action on 22nd February and duly scored the opening goal in a 3-0 home win over Rochdale.

Rochdale were also the opposition in what would proved to be Terry’s last ever game as a professional on Saturday 14th May 1977, the Bee’s won 3-2.
His last ever goal as a pro came on the ground he first played a Football League game some 7 years earlier when he scored in the 2-2 draw with Darlington at Feethams on 2nd April 77.

At the end of the season the family went away on holiday, after discussions with wife while on holiday he decided to call time on his professional career. They decided to move back up North, having become homesick due to the struggle to live down south.
In July upon returning from holiday he spoke with his manager Bill Dodgin and informed him of his decision.
In a last attempt to keep his midfielder Dodgin then offered him a new wage of £65 per week from the £51 he had been on, but it was too late his decision was made.
Dodgin understood his feelings and the families situation that had led to the decision.
Knowing he was still under contract Terry feared Dodgin may be somewhat annoyed, even vindictive when he asked if he would be allowed to play for a local side. Terry was grateful of his managers understanding whole of the situation, they agreed on the provision they kept his registration. 
In an interview with the Brentford Gazette and Post
Terry explained:
“After three years of struggling on the wages, I felt it was just hopeless and decided to quit. With a wife and young daughter to support I just couldn’t manage it. We were in a club house, but wanted to buy our own place, and there was no chance down here on those wages, I couldn’t carry on living on the wages”.

On 14th July the Gazette and Post broke the news that Terry had ‘quit’ the club and was already back in the North East and about to take up a job as an assistant manager at a chemical warehouse.
The Spartans swooped and signed him straight away after coach Jackie Marks heard from a contact that Terry was back home.
Chairman Jim Turney then had to negotiate with Brentford officials the legalities of him still being their contracted and registered player and playing part time for the another club.
After lengthy discussions a deal was struck deal that allowed Terry to play but only because Blyth were a part time club.

He made his debut in the friendly against Berwick Rangers on Friday 5th August and scored his first goal 4 days later in the 5-2 home friendly win over Wallsend Town.
The first competitive goal as a Spartan came on Tuesday 13th September when Blyth beat Shildon 4-1 at home in the league.
Four days later he scored a second half goal in the 3-0 win at Shildon in the FA Cup 1st Qualifying Round, little did he know then what a further six goals in the competition would do.

Former club Brentford had been monitoring his form and it wasn’t long before they made an attempt to bring him back. Prior to Blyth’s FA Cup 2nd Round tie with Chesterfield he had gone to watch his former Bees teammates play at Darlington and was spotted in the stand by club officials who informed their Chairman. Bees official approached him but he wasn’t interested:
“There is now way I shall turn my back on Blyth with the FA Cup tie coming up”.

By the time Blyth played Stoke City away in a delayed FA Cup 4th round tie he had scored another 10 goals.
Of all the teams and grounds to cemented his cult hero status, his performance at Stoke City’s Victoria Ground was somewhat cathartic given his last visit in December 68 with Newcastle.
All his experience was clear to see in the final seconds of a tie, latching onto a loose ball he unerringly fired home a sensational winner.
The dramatic goal in the epic 3-2 win saw Blyth become the first Non league club to reach the 5th Round for 29 years.
Terry revealed that while the Stoke players may not have underestimated Blyth their attempted gamesmanship towards them only inspired the Spartans. His exchange with footballing legend Howard Kendall after they had taken a 2-1 lead was a prime example:
“Howard Kendall came up to me and said, never mind son, you’ve done really well to get this far!
He was so bloody condescending. You should have seen his face when we got the equaliser, and when I belted in the winner I gave him the two fingers, the look on his face”.

Being part time it was straight back to work the next morning, with the team not not getting home until 2.30am in morning he was up at 7.30am to drive to his work.
It wasn’t until after putting in a day at work the players were able to celebrate their achievements at the Croft Park social club where a party was thrown.
Having taken a job as a storeman at  the Jackel factory in Blyth the press wanted a photo of the hero at his place of work.
The players lapped up all the attention of this once in a lifetime opportunity, Terry was even invited on the BBC’s Football Focus show to talk about the cup run and his heroics at Stoke.
That win had also brought the players an unlikely reward. Terry’s goals as a professional had won him awards but had never furniture! 
Local bedroom furniture company Alpha gifted all the Blyth players £1,000 each worth of furniture their efforts at Stoke.

While Terry was scoring at Stoke a result elsewhere denied him and Blyth their dream cup tie. Prior to kick off the clubs knew the next round opponents were either Newcastle United or Wrexham away, the Welsh side hammered United 4-1.
Terry knew the home ground of the inform Welsh side, he had scored on the Racecourse Ground on 17th February 73 in Southend’s 2-3 league defeat.

5 years on he repeated the feat scoring one of Blyth Spartans most iconic goals ever.Only 12 minutes into the 5th Round tie on Saturday 18th February he famously fired Blyth into a lead that put them within seconds of the FA Cup Quarter Finals.
What happened in the final few seconds of the game has be debated countless times since with the tie controversially going to a replay.

With St James’ Park being due to stage the replay, Terry was faced with a return for the first times since his release seven years earlier. Still bitter at not being given the chance he felt he had earned, despite being a Newcastle fan he hadn’t been to the ground since:
“I’ve never been back, not even to watch a game I just wanted to stay away.”

On Saturday 21st February 78, Terry finally made a return to St James’. Blyth manager Brian Slane contacted United officials to ask if his players could visit the St James’ before the game to get a feel for the ground. United’s hieracy went one better and invited the Blyth players & officials to be guests of honour at the home game with Ipswich on Saturday 21st February.

Having featured on the cover of Brentford’s programme for the 76/77 season, once again he was graced a match day programme. 
The iconic ‘official souvenir programme’ for the St James’ Park replay featured only three of the Spartans heroes; Terry, Dave Clarke & Ron Guthrie.
Fittingly, having started their careers together at Newcastle United as young pro’s they were chosen to feature on the cover of the famous programme for big game.

On the night of the legendary replay, Terry was the darling of the packed St James’ Park crowd that he had once worked so hard to play in front of.
42,157 saw another incident packed game, the epic cup run sadly come to an end but it was some what fitting that Terry scored the last goal of the run with it coming at St James’ Park.
Terry was in a rich vain of form, that replay at SJP was the sixth consecutive game he had scored in, the 8 goals in 6 games which was his best return since joining the club.

After a decade of trying to make a name for himself in the professional game with only moderate success in the lower reaches of the Football League, after only 28 games as a part time player he had achieved national fame.
League teams were queuing up to speak to the Blyth players.
Both his former clubs made approaches but he was enjoying his football and was more than happy at Blyth.

It had brought him a hero worship status that he was enjoying:
“I have to say I love being recognised and stopped in the street by kids, mums and dads, grandmas and grandads. I enjoyed having my picture in the papers and seeing myself score goals on television.
Do I miss the league? Sometimes I wish I was still playing in it, I know I can hold my own.
But if I has stayed at Brentford would have missed all this magic.”

He won his first silverware as a Spartans and it came back at St James’ Park of all places.
On Tuesday 2nd May 78 he scored again on St James’ Park as Blyth beat North Shields 2-1 in the Northumberland Senior Cup Final.
His second half winner sealed his first medal for Blyth and within a week he had another, on Tuesday 9th May he added a Northern League Cup winners medal as the Spartans hammered Willington 5-1.
In between the two finals he hit his first hat trick for the club as they hammered League Champions Spennymoor 6-1 in the final league game of the season.

Saturday 13th May Blyth headed to Wrexham again for the 1st Leg of the Debenhams Cup Final.
Terry made it 3 goals in 3 appearances at The Racecourse Ground when he fired Blyth ahead in the 5th minute. Unfortunately by the time Dave Varty sealed the 2-1 win in the 72nd minute Terry had been subbed due to a hamstring injury.
He recovered in time to play in the 2nd leg five days later but again had to be subbed in the 70th minute of the 1-1 draw after the injury flared up again.
The draw sealed the 3-2 aggregate win and his 3rd winners medals in 13 days to round off a superb debut season with the club.

He started the new 78/79 season in great style, Saturday 19th August he hit a hat trick in the open day 5-1 home win over Horden CW. His next goals also came in a 5-1 win, bagging a brace in the home win over Willington on Tuesday 29th August.
The FA Cup came around once again in November 78, Blyth were drawn away to 4th Division York City in the 1st Round. He scored from the penalty spot to earn a 1-1 draw at Bootham Crescent but then suffered a broke toe which forced him out of the replay three days later.

By the time he returned to action on the 22nd January his strike partner Alan Shoulder had sealed a dream move to Newcastle United and manager Brian Slane had retired.
The promotion of Jackie Marks from coach/assistant to team manager kept the continuity and Terry thrived under the man who had brought him to the club. Playing alongside new signing the Les Mutrie he scored six goals as they finished the season with a 15 game unbeaten run that saw another medal added to his growing collection when they retained the League Cup.

The 79/80 campaign was the start of the worst run of injuries he’d ever had in the game.
A bizarre incident in the final seconds of a pre season friendly against a works football team led to him suffering a career threatening eye injury.
In the win against York British Rail at Croft Park on Saturday 4th August, his shot rebound off their keeper and hit him in the face damaging his right eye, he was rushed to hospital in Newcastle.
After his release and return home he revealed to the Evening Chronicle that his career was on the line:
“I have seen a special, who has warned me that if I play football in the next three or four weeks  – and assuming I took a knot on the head – I could go blind. I’m told the right retina has gone thin.
It’s now just a question of waiting to see what happens. I’ve got to wait for a month to see how things go – and even then I’m not certain if I’ll play again”.

He didn’t get the all clear until mid October and made his return as sub in the last 20 minutes of a 3-0 League Cup win over Penrith on Tuesday 23rd October. Four days later he returned the to the starting XI for the 1-1 draw with Billingham.
Only week later the injury curse struck again when he broke his leg in a 2-2 home draw with Marine in the FA Cup 4th Qualifying Round on Saturday 3rd November.

After 12 months of injury misery in January 1980 he decided it was time to quit the game, sadly the competition that had made him famous had ended his career.
Despite recovering for the broken leg, now aged 30 he felt the timing of his decision was right:
“It was a very difficult decision to make, but it is the right one. I’m mending well now but i think it is about time I concentrated my energies on the firm I work for”.

Now the stores manager at Jackel International he acknowledged their part in his success:
“If it wasn’t for their understanding I wouldn’t have been able to do as much for Blyth Spartans. I’ve enjoyed myself and if you asked me for the most memorable goal I scored, then I’ve got to pick the one that won us the 4th Round cup tie at Stoke”.

While working hard on his recovery he kept in touch with manager and friend Jackie Marks, and attended training session to get his fitness back.
In March 1980 Blyth had fought their way to the Quarter Finals of the FA Trophy but had a growing injury list.
With a home replay against Northern Premier League side Mossley two days away Jackie Marks didn’t want to risk further injuries for the Saturday league game against Durham City.
With the club still having Terry contracted until the end of the 80/81 season the SOS call was made.
Along with fellow striker Paul Ross, who had damaged his knee liagments only a fortnight after Terry had, they were asked if they were up to playing a game.

It proved a shrewd move by Marks, playing in a midfield birth he’d not played since his Brentford days Terry bagged two goals in the 4-0 win. Speaking about is first goals for the Spartans since May 79:
“I had a great time, I decided to go out and enjoy myself and i did just that – with two goals into the bargain”.

Ahead of the FA Trophy Quarter Final replay, The Journal’s reporter Bill Bradshaw quizzed Terry on his future plans:
“Initially, I was just doing them a favour and I had certainly decided to not play again any more and concentrate on my job. But that’s easier said than done. Football isn’t something I can turn my back on. I’ve kept fit training with the Blyth lads and playing five-a-side matches. Football’s been a big part of my life and when Blyth had injury problems I was delight to turn out for them”.

Terry kept his midfield place for the replay but Mossley proved too good on the night and Blyth’s Wembley dream ended for another season.
He went on to win his first league winners medal that season as Jackie Marks side stormed to the clubs first Northern League title since 1976, ending the three year reign of rivals Spennymoor.

Now established in a midfield role the new 80/81 season started disappointingly. Not only did Blyth surprisingly lose the opening game 0-2 at home to Consett, Terry picked up an achilles tendon injury that kept him out for a month.
He returned to action on 17th September as Blyth were in the middle of a 17 game unbeaten run and is first goal of the season came in the 1-1 draw at home to Crook Town on 23rd September.
By the time the club entered the FA Cup on 1st November with a 7-0 hammering of Horden, Terry had been appointed team captain. A 2-1 1st Round win over Burton Albion saw Blyth draw Hull City away in the 2nd Round. Three epic cup ties that ended with a narrow defeat in a 2nd replay played at Elland Road.
That night saw another of Terry’s teammates make the step up to league football when Les Mutrie signed for Hull straight after the game.

The end of 80/81 season brought him a trophy double as they retained the Northern League title and he also made another another appearance at St James’ Park.
The Senior Cup Final with Blue Star ended 1-1 and had to go to a replay at Whitley Bay, Terry opening the scoring in a 3-1 win that sealed the double.
However that isn’t the end of the drama, hours after the win the man who had brought Terry to Blyth Jackie Marks, stepped down as manager.

Experienced Northern League manager and former Blyth player Bob Elwell was appointed for what was a stop start season for Terry.
He scored in the first game of the season but after being a fixture in the managers new side he suffered another achilles injury in 3-2 home win over Ferryhill on 15th September that would keep him out for 8 weeks.
He returned in time to get a couple of games in before Blyth hosted Walsall in the FA Cup 1st Round, two games later he was sent off in a 2-2 draw at South Bank that brought him a 28 day suspension!

In the summer of 1981 he was made redundant from his job at Jackel International.
Shrewdly he made a career change that capitalised on his fame opening a Fruit & Veg shop in Blyth!
It was a huge success and he even took up a stall on the thriving Blyth market on a Saturday morning.

By the March he was on longer an automatic choice, it appeared that Terry didn’t feature in the managers plans and he wasn’t happy:
“The manager has the right to hear what I have to say before anyone else, but it is true that I want to talk to him”.

Despite clearing the air he was used more often as a substitute as Bob Elwells’ won the treble, they clocked up an 11 game unbeaten run to retain the title. Terry did start in the last two games of the season which were both to be cup finals.
On 5th May he collected another League Cup winners medal as Blyth beat South Bank on penalties and then played at St James’ Park yet again as a Paul Walker 89th minute goal sealed another Senior Cup win and the third trophy on 12 days.

Terry scored in a 5-0 pre season friendly win over Seaham Red Star on Tuesday 10th August 1982 but that proved to be his last game as he was released by Bob Elwell days later.
Terry spoke of his sadness:
“I suppose, in a way I was expecting it.
But I’m shattered, nevertheless. 
I’m a Blyth lad now and have always felt very close to the club, but the manager doesn’t want me and I have to accept the situation”.

Bob Elwell explained his decision was playing budget related:
“I cannot afford to have a contracted player who is not in the team on a regular basis”.

Terry wasn’t short of offers with no fewer than six clubs interested and even a management career was on offer. Consett manager Gary Moore, had been Jackie Marks assistant at Blyth and knew Terry well and what he could offer. He wanted him to use his experience and become as his assistant manager for 1982/83 season.

While Bedlington Terriers and Seaham Red Star made their interest public he wasn’t giving anything away:
“It would not be right to say who who they are at this stage. I’m still building my fruit and veg business in Blyth and I’m going to leave any decision about my future for a couple of weeks at least.
I do want to play again, though I only wish it had been with Blyth”.

After taking his time to decide on what would be best for him and his successful Fruit & Veg business, it was Bedlington Terriers boss Bill Ward pulled off a coup landing Terry for their first season in the new Northern League Second Division. However, come the New Year he was back at Croft Park.

Bob Elwell lost his job in November 82 following an FA Cup defeat at Alliance side Northwich Victoria that the Blyth board deemed unacceptable. His replacement was former the Scottish International Everton & Newcastle winger John Connolly.
The new Player Manager was an instant hit with the fans with his attacking free flowing football and in January 83 he endear himself to the Croft Park faithful even further bringing Terry back home.

He played a vital role as Blyth reached the 4th Round of the FA Trophy and stormed to yet another League title winning all but one of their last nine games. The game that clinched the title on Saturday 30th April proved to be Terry’s swan song to the Northern League.
Blyth went to Tow Law knowing they had to win to ensure the title. Making his second start since returning Terry scored four as Blyth hammered Tow Law 9-1!

His last game for Blyth came on Thursday 19th May 1983 when they lost a Senior Cup Final Replay to Blue Star, he called it a day on his football career at the end of that season.
He scored 73 goals in 164 appearances for Blyth and it the club’s 21st all time highest goalscorer.

Terry’s 6 years in Non League football was a huge success, more so than all his years as a professional.
It brought him national fame and made him a North East football legend.
Every one of those 77/78 players are legends for what they achieved, they will never be forgotten even now their names are still revered in Non League football.

For his part Terry Johnson became the ultimate Green and White Cult Hero, a truly legendary Spartan.

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Credits, Acknowledgements & Thank you’s:

The late Ken Sproat’s superb book ‘The History of Blyth Spartans’ was as ever an important source of information.

Yet again Kevin Tilmouth provided images from his superb collection Blyth Spartans memorabilia.

Phil Castiaux for the image from the Tow Law hammering.

Two Newcastle United fans provided vital info and an image and I must thank them for all their help with this article  –
Alan Golightly  – @old_toon
Once again Alan has been a great help with his knowledge of all things Newcastle United.

David Pallister – @DavidPallister
Another very knowledgeable Toon fan who was a great help

The following excellent websites provided important info and images:

https://www.nufc.com

http://www.toon1892.com

Southend United Ex Players Association provided great images and info on Terry’s time at the club – @SUEPAssoc

The British Newspaper Library was a vital source of info and images.

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Players from the past – Peter Mackin 1908 to 1910 & 1911/12.

Players from the Past profiles and tells the stories of former Spartans from the clubs birth right up to WWII.

Third in the series is…

Peter Mackin 1908 to 1910 & 1911/12

The Spartans had already been playing for seven seasons before Peter joined, there had been standout players in those early years such as the likes of Billy Gallagher, Billy Spence and the Thompson brothers; Andrew & Nixon.
However Peter was the first Spartan to earn hero status within the town.
Living and working alongside the fans he became their hero. Walking the short distance to and from the shipyard everyday with them they would then flock in their thousands to the towns football ground to watch him play.

Peter was born in Gateshead in 1878 to Michael & Mary Anne.
His Irish father was born in Armagh in 1848 but left his homeland due to the 1845-1849 ‘Potato Famine’ and moved to the North East. Peter’s mother Marry Anne Leadbitter was from Easington Lane, Durham.

The family moved to Wallsend in 1881 when his father took up work at Palmer’s Shipbuilding & Iron Company.
In 1891 his father convinced the shipyard to take on 13 year old Peter as an apprentice.

They then moved back across the Tyne in 1899, living in Hebburn with both Peter and his father working in the towns Hawthorn Leslie shipyard.
Aged 21, Peter signed for Northern Alliance side Hebburn Argyle.
The form of the stocky bustling forward soon attracted attention, in December 1899 Sunderland manager Alex Mathie offered Arygle £75 for Peter which they accepted.
His deal with Sunderland was £10 up front, £3 per week and £1 bonus for each win and 3 shillings for each drawn game he played in.
He spent two seasons at Sunderland on their first team list of players but was a regular for their “A” team.
He was a key part of the successful “A” team that retained both the Durham Senior Cup and the Tyneside Alliance and finished runners up in the Northern Alliance in 1901/02.
Having not managed to make a first team appearance he left Sunderland at the end of 1902/03.

He signed for Northern Alliance side Wallsend Park Villa and started work again in the Palmers shipyard as a general labourer.
He was the extra quality Villa needed having finished runners up in the previous campaign, Peter’s goals helped them seal their first and only Northern Alliance title in 1903/04. He was top scorer in both his seasons at Villa as they scored 124 goals in 56 league games.

In May 1905 Lincoln City’s Scottish manager David Calderhead looked further north for new players, Peter was one of several northern based players he brought in.
He made an instant impact scoring on his debut in the 1905/06 season opening day 3-1 win over Burslem Port Vale.
He then struggled but found form at the turn of the year, scoring a brace as City thrashed Burnley 5-0, scoring another two again a fortnight later as Burton United we beaten 5-1.
His knack for grabbing goals in big wins continued with a hat trick as Bradford City were beaten 5-0 at home.
In City’s penultimate home game of the season he scored both in a 2-3 defeat by Manchester United as they finished in 13th place. He scored 16 times in 33 appearances.

Injury restricted him to just five goals from 21 appearances the following season including two against Clapham Orient in March 1907 in a 3-0 win.
They were his final goals for the club as they finished second from bottom.
Peter left the Imps in May 1907 returning to his native North-East rejoining Wallsend Park Villa for the 07/08 Northern Alliance season.
Upon his return to the North East, Peter meet his wife Anne Doyle and they were married later that year.

Blyth first encountered him on Saturday 1st February 1908 in the 2-2 home draw.
He scored both their goals that afternoon however it was his goals in the next meeting that caused the most damage to Blyth’s season.
Spartans had gone into the final game of their inaugural Northern Alliance season with an expectation of finishing runners up.
However that game was away at Wallsend Park Villa, there had been ill feeling between the clubs ever since Blyth gained election to the league the previous summer.

• Villa had strongly objected to Blyth’s election, they were especially unhappy about the way club secretary Jonathon Ridley had allegedly ‘gone about persuading’ the league and it’s clubs that they should expand to a more competitive 16 team set up.
  They raised the matter with the FA who upheld the complaint and the Spartans were effectively without a league.
  Jonathan Ridley held meetings with league officials to find a resolution. Villa promptly withdrew their complaint, which Scotswood briefly then took up. They quickly realised the allegations were ‘founded on misconception’ and dropped their objections allowing Blyth to take up their rightful place in the Northern Alliance.
  Subsequently Wallsend Park Villa tended noticed to leave the league at the end of the season and join the North Eastern League.

Having started the final game in second place Blyth’s hopes were dashed as Villa’s star player who scored four in a damaging 2-6 hammering. Blyth ended up finishing a disappointing 5th.
A week after the final game the club made their move for Peter, he had finished the season as Villa’s top scorer with 26 goals.
Officials knew his experience was what was needed to take the club further and instantly installed him as team captain.
Crowds were had risen to around 3,000 for each home game and they wanted success. Officials were determined to establish themselves as the top team in the league and were known for paying the best wages in the league. They were determined to banish the failings of the clubs predecessors, Blyth FC who had played in the league before folding in April 1899.

Anne and Peter moved into a house in Maddison Street and he started work for the Blyth Shipbuilding and Dock Company. Despite working long and exhausting hours he always made time for his family as well as his football.
They had the first of their five children, Michael and Peter, not long after moving to Blyth.

Captain Peter (centre of front row) before the 3-1 win at Bedlington United on 9th January 1909.

His first goal for the club came on 26th September in the 1-1 away draw at Mickley, however it was the next game that had the local paper singing his praises.
On Saturday 17th October a staggering 6,000 shoe horned into the Thoronton Cottage ground for the local derby with Bedlington United.
Such was the interest in the game it attracted a ground record crowd and had to kick off earlier than advertised due to the sheer numbers.
Blyth hammered United 7-0, Peter caught the eye of the towns paper receiving all the plaudits despite Dan Heenan scoring a hat trick:
“a real dandy player, sending the crowd into hilarious amusement by tricking one player after another by his play”.

He scored 26 that season as Blyth stormed to their first ever Northern Alliance title.
His role in helping the club to the title had earned him hero status with the supporters but on Wednesday 28th April 1909 he took his fame to a new level, virtually singled handily sealing a trophy double.
Having scored in the 1-1 draw with North Eastern League North Shields Athletic in the Tynemouth Infirmary Cup Final, Blyth got to host the replay.
It would turn out to be the last game at the club’s Thoroton Cottage ground before they moved to Croft Park.
Against the higher league opposition Spartans had taken the lead against the run of play and were hanging on to a precarious 1-0 lead.
Peter then stole the show scoring a hat trick as Blyth stormed to an impressive 4-0 win in front of a 4,000 crowd, it was a great send off for the popular ground.
At the final whistle spectators triumphantly carried Peter shoulder high from the pitch despite the torrential rain. Thousands followed the team back to the club’s new headquarters above the Joiners Arms and patiently waited until the trophy was displayed at an open window above the pub.

Peter stands arms folded as Lord Ridley is about to run passed him to kick off the game at Croft Park.

On Wednesday 1st September 1909 Croft Park was officially opened as Spartans hosted Newcastle United Reserves, Peter scored the first goal on the new ground from open play as the Reserves ran out 2-4 winners.
Saturday 11th September Peter scored the club’s first ever FA Cup goal in the 1-1 home draw with
Washington United.

On New Years Day 1910 Blyth beat Anfield Plain 2-0 in a game where the Blyth keeper never touched the ball once, the football Spartans were producing was
“never so brilliant” as the Blyth News stated.
Two days later Peter scored in a 2-0 win over Jarrow Caledonians, he was described as an inspirational, forceful leader – a “generalissimo”.
He made up for an almost complete lack of pace with the ability to bewilder opponents with incredible dribbling skills and ferocious finishing power.
Crowds at Croft Park were averaging 4,000 per game. The free scoring Peter, Billy Spence, Clem Stephenson and long serving Nicky Thompson were the main attraction.
Such was their popularity with the townsfolk they even had a Blyth Music Hall song written in their honour.

With three hat tricks already to his name, on 19th February 1910 he became the first Spartan to score a hat trick of penalties in one game.
Peter scored a double hat trick that day as Blyth hammered Kingston Villa 9-0 at Croft Park.  The always descriptive reporter for the Blyth News stated Peter was:
‘the cynosure of all eyes’
(cynosure – a person or thing that is the centre of attention or admiration).

For his achievement the club awarded him with a set of presentation carving knives from a renowned ironmongers in Bridge Street, Blyth; Dalston Brothers.
Two more medals were added to his club collection as a cup double was won in April.
On Wednesday 20th they beat South Shields Adelaide 2-1 to retain the Tynemouth Infirmary Cup and nine days later won the Aged Miners Homes Cup Final.
Having only won three of the last seven league games the clubs ambitious administrators deemed the 7th place finish an unacceptable return from a campaign they started as champions.
The 4-0 Aged Miners Homes Cup win over Choppington St. Pauls at Croft Park proved not only to be Peter’s last game but that of several other established Spartans.
While Peter didn’t manage to score in the Final leaving with 49 club goals to his name, long serving Nicky Thompson recorded his 114th goal on his final appearance before going to New Hartley Rovers.

Peter went to play for local rivals Bedlington United in the 1910/11 season and despite a 9th place league finish he picked up yet another winners medal.
Having captained Blyth to back to back Tynemouth Infirmary Cup wins, in March 1911 he made it three in a row when Bedlington beat Stobswood 4-2 at Croft Park to claim the trophy for the first time. In honour of his achievement captain Frank Wilson stepped aside to let Peter be presented with the trophy after the final whistle.

Still hugely popular in his home town, in April 1911 Blyth officials commissioned a portrait of Peter and presented it to him at the end of the season as a mark of their respect for his achievements.
Having decided to go with younger players Blyth’s fortunes only improved by one league place, ending 1910/11 in 6th. There was a change within the club when secretary Jonathan Ridley so long the driving force behind the team, stepped down and was replaced by John Edward Spence.
Spence brought back players he personally knew and in May 1911 much to the supporters joy Peter returned to Croft Park, aged 33 he was now playing a deeper midfield role.

He add two more goals to bring up 51 in total for the club. He scored in the 2-0 away win at Choppington 2-0  on Saturday 30th December and then two days later in the 2-0 home win over Mickley on New Years Day.
There was no improvement in the final league placing finishing 7th, one place lower than the previous season. There was another trophy win as Peter made it four cup winners medals with the club.
On Saturday 27th April 1912 they beat Benwell Adelaide 2-1 at home in the Aged Miners Homes Cup Final in his last ever game for the club.

His footballing talents were still in demand, he joined Ashington for the 1912/13 season helping then secure a second consecutive runners up finish in the Northern Alliance.
In 1913/14 he played for Willington Athletic and then briefly for Newburn before the world changed in 1914.

Peter was 36 when war broke out in July 1914 and like many of his shipyard workmates  he enlisted joining 20th Battalion (1st Tyneside Scottish) of the Northumberland Fusiliers.
While his battalion were training in Amble he still managed to play some football.
Just before being sent to the Western Front he faced some of the Newcastle United players once again, when local club footballers staged in a game against members of the United squad who had also been called into service.

Sent to Northern France, Private 20/1049 was wounded on the first day of the Battle of the Somme, 1st July 1916.
Sadly Peter’s brother younger Thomas, who was in the 3rd Tyneside Irish 26th Battalion,  lost his life on that fateful day on the Somme.
After recovering from his injuries Peter was transferred to the 1st (Tyneside Irish) 24th Battalion of the Northumberland Fusiliers.

Sadly on Easter Monday 9th April 1917, aged 38, he was killed at Vimy Ridge in the Battle of Arras.
On 18th May 1917 the Morpeth Herald reported:
“Official news had been reached at Blyth that Peter Mackin of Tyneside Irish has been killed in action. Private Mackin was for several years the doyen of local football followers. He leaves a widow and family of young children”.

His death stunned a town already too used with losing its sons in the war.
A fund was created to support the families, it raised over £2,000 for service charities
(a huge amount at that time, £140,000 in today’s money).
In early September the Blyth News announced that a benefit match was the be held for his widow, Anne and their 5 children, the youngest Frank, being born 4 months after Peter’s death.
On Saturday 22nd September the wife of County Councillor A.A. Askwith was given the honour of kicking off the benefit game between Blyth Munitionettes and the Ladies of the Wallsend Slipway and Engineering Company (Wallsend Slipway Girls).
It was the first game played by the hugely successful and popular Blyth Munitionettes.

Peter was one of seven Spartans who lost their lives in the Great War;
Jack Nichol was killed on the 10th August, 1915.
Patrick McLaughlin was killed on 27th March 1916.
George Robertson was killed in July 1915.
Richard McFadden was killed on 22nd October 1916.
Dan Dunglinson was killed on the 1st July 1916.
Jack Robson was killed in action in July 1917.
Lest we forget.

Roclincourt Military Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France is the Commonwealth War Grave of Private P. Mackin.

There is also a family headstone in Cowpen Cemetery, Blyth which reads:
In loving memory of a beloved mother Annie Mackin died 7th April 1933 aged 52 years dear wife of Peter Mackin Pvte. 20/1049, 24th (Tyneside Irish) Bn. Northumberland Fusiliers killed at Battle of Arras 9th April 1937 aged 38 years and interred at Roclincourt, France.

He is he remembered on the towns cenotaph in Ridley Park:
‘1914-1918 In Remembrance of the men of Blyth who endured great hardships achieved glorious deeds, and died for freedom and country in the Great War’.

• He is also remembered on a memorial in what was their local church, Our Lady and St Wilfired’s Roman Catholic Church in Waterloo Street, Blyth.
  However, he is listed as ‘Peter Macklin’, of the thirty one congregation members who lost their lives in the Great War eleven on the memorial are known to have different variations of their actual birth names.
  Differing spelling of surnames wasn’t uncommon in the early 1900’s in fact Lincoln City FC historians have Peter recorded as Peter Machin!.

---

When the centenary of Croft Park was commemorated in 2009 the club restaged the Newcastle United Reserves friendly. The current Lord Ridley also kicked off the game which Blyth again lost 2-4.

In honour of what his father achieved for the club a century earlier guest of honour that night was Peter’s youngest son, Frank.
A week shy of his 92nd birthday he travelled up from his Bolton home especially for the occasion.
He had kept the family connection to the club going throughout his life, still attended matches Blyth played in the North West. Frank’s daughter lived and worked in Cramlington for over 30 years and his son in law and grandson still attend games at Croft Park to this day.

What Peter Mackin achieved for the club and the town has and will never be forgotten.
He is a true Blyth Spartans legend, one of the pivotal people in the club’s history.

—————————————————————-

Credits, Acknowledgements & Thank you’s:

The late Ken Sproat’s superb book ‘The History of Blyth Spartans’ was as ever an important source of information.

The following excellent websites provided important info and images:

https://singunited.co.uk/meet-the-singers-our-river-stories-3-barbara-roper/

http://www.newmp.org.uk/article.php?categoryid=99&articleid=1606&displayorder=212

https://staceywest.net/2017/11/20/world-war-one-imps/

http://www.donmouth.co.uk/local_history/northern_alliance/northern_alliance.html

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Players from the past – Frank King 1933.

Players from the Past profiles and tells the stories of former Spartans from the clubs birth right up to WWII.

Second in the series is…

Frank King 1933

Francis Oliver King was born on 13th April 1917 in Radcliffe, Northumberland.

The eldest of three brothers, George & Ray, his father was a miner at Radcliffe colliery.
Aged only nine they were evicted from their colliery house after his father was suspected of instigating a miners strike.
His parents then briefly attempted to run a chip shop but had to give up the business when ten year old Frank accidentally burnt down the house!
They moved to Amble when his father secured a new job as a check weigh man at Hauxley Colliery.

Frank started playing football aged 14 for Radcliffe. He was given his first team debut in 1931 when Radcliffe drew local rivals Hauxley in a North Northumberland Cup tie.
Despite losing 0-1 Frank was the star player for Radcliffe, undeterred at being younger than his opponents the red haired keeper soon gained a reputation of having no fear.

It was Blyth’s first official manager, Ernie Hoffman, that brought 16 year old Frank to Croft Park. Signing him from Amble with the intention of playing him in the Reserves to develop.
However the FA Cup changed all that.

The Spartans had drawn 1-1 away at Wardley Welfare in a 3rd Qualifying Round tie on Saturday 28th October, four days later the replay at Croft Park ended 2-2 after extra time.
Blyth then played Darlington Reserves away on Saturday 4th November in a North Eastern League game.
Albert Dunmore scored the goal in a great 1-0 win but Blyth suffered a blow when regular keeper Jim Barron picked up an injury.

The injury ruled him out of the FA Cup 2nd Replay two days later, Ernie Hoffman had every confidence in his “strongly built” stand in keeper.
On Monday 6th November Blyth finally overcame Wardley Welfare 1-0 thanks to another Dumore winner to set up a 4th Qual. tie with local NEL rivals North Shields.
However was it Frank’s ‘miraculous’ performance that took all the plaudits, the Blyth News dubbed him the “brilliant boy keeper”.

He kept his place for the North Shields tie at Croft Park and produced another superb display as the tie ended 0-0.
The 1-1 league draw away at Sunderland Reserves on Saturday 18th November saw him concede his first goal in three appearances, however word about the “brilliant boy keeper’ had got out.
On Monday 20th November Frank played in the FA Cup 4th Qual. Replay, a game that changed his life.
Blyth lost 1-3 but once again Frank was the star man despite the the scoreline, the display of the 16 year old impressed the watching scouts.
Straight after the game at Appleby Park, First Division Everton made their move and approached the club about signing Frank.

On Wednesday 22nd November Frank officially signed for the Toffees.
Due to his age he was classed as an ‘amateur signing’ and a nominal fee of £200 was agreed between the clubs.
He spent a year in the youth and reserves teams before featuring in the clubs annual Intra-Squad Blues v Whites pre season friendlies.
On 13th August 1934 he played for the ‘Whites’ in the 4-4 draw where he came up against club legend Dixie Dean. Five days later his Whites team won the return 7-4.

Remarkably he was handed his first team debut on his 17th birthday!
He debuted in the 1-1 draw against Middlesbrough at Goodison, going on to make four more appearances that season keeping three clean sheets in those five games.

Frank with fellow new signing, future Everton legend & England manager Joe Mercer.

From 1933/34 season onwards he was
established as the stand in for regular keeper
Ted Sagar.
On 4th January 1936, aged only 19 he was
thrown into the white hot atmosphere of a Merseyside derby.
With Sagar injured Frank stepped in and produced a man of the match performance in front of 52,282 in a 0-0 draw.
An avid Sunderland supporter it had been Frank’s dream to one day play for the Black Cats. On 6th February 1937 he finally got to play against the team he supported. He kept a clean sheet as a Dixie Dean brace helped to the Toffees to an easy 3-0 victory.

Frank only managed to play 13 times keeping an impressive 8 clean sheets. He couldn’t oust regular keeper Ted Sagar who would go on to make 500 appearances.
Frank felt he needed to be playing regularly he meet with the management to express his concerns and as a result on 8th May 1937 he was allowed to join Derby County for £200.
It was seen as a shrewd signing by the Rams.
But with three other keepers already on their books his task of getting regular games was no easier.
He featured in the final three games of 1937/38 season, the last first team league game he played for the Rams happened to be back at Goodison Park on 7th May 1938 in a 1-1 draw.
A bad injury picked up in a Reserve team game against Stoke City in January 1939 led to him having to retire aged only 22.

Unable to play professionally anymore Frank embarked on a career in the police force, he did however manage to return to playing three years later.
When war broke out in September 1939 as a serving police officer he was excluded from the war effort and made a return to football. He signed for Southport as a ‘guest player’ and played in the Wartime League.
Between 1941/42 and 43/44 Frank made 23 appearances while still serving as a policeman. Having been out the game for over two years, his return wasn’t as successful.
His debut on 13th December 1941 didn’t quiet go to plan as Southport lost 1-6 away at Bury.
He failed to kept a clean sheet and conceded 62 goals in those 23 appearances, playing 13 times in Wartime League and 10 times in the Football League War Cup.
His last ever appearance at Goodison Park as a player wasn’t quite as he would have wanted, Southport lost 2-10 on 22nd February 1943 in a Football League War Cup Qualifying tie.

Frank’s final game as a player came on 18th September 1943 in Southport’s 4-4 home draw with Rochdale. However that wasn’t his last involvement in the game.
While still a serving policeman he took a course in physiotherapy and upon qualifying he quit the force and took up the roll of physio at Leicester City.

In 1958 he accepted on offer to move to Luton Town to be their trainer. He was part of their infamous ‘selection team’ when the club reached Wembley for the first time in 1959.

In October 58 Dally Duncan left Kenilworth Road to join Blackburn after ten years in charge. Town’s board formed a ‘selection team’ to run footballing side of the club.
Three directors, trainer Frank along with help from long serving captain Syd Owen choose the team, it worked as The Hatters reached their first major Final.
They used the same 11 players in the nine games to reach Wembley.
The 78th FA Cup Final was a case of what could have been for the Hatters.
The directors  within the selection team over ruled Frank & Owen and bizarrely decided to change a winning team. They left out top goalscorer Gordon Tuner and winger Jim Adam. The Hatters found themselves 0-2 down after 14 minutes, in the second half even when Forest went to down to 10 men through injury they couldn’t capitalise. They did pull a goal back but Forest held on to lift the cup.
That Final was as good as it got for the Hatters and the following season they were relegated from the First Division and by the start of 64/65 were playing in the fourth tier.

By then Frank had taken up a position as a physio for the FA and served them for several years in various posts before retiring and living out his days in Bedforshire.

Sadly the ‘brilliant boy keeper’ passed away in 2003 aged 86.

• His two younger brothers also went on to having extensive professional careers.
  George was a forward he scored 59 goals in 164 league games in a seven-year career playing for Newcastle, Hull City Port Vale, Barrow, Bradford City & Gillingham.
  George passed away in 2009 aged 86.Ray was also a keeper and like his brother George became his career at Newcastle before joining Leyton Orient and then Ashington. However it was at Port Vale he made his name making 252 appearances in eight years with them and earning a call up for the England B team. He would go on to play and manage Boston United then manage Poole Town & Sittingbourne.
  Ray passed away in 2014 aged 89.

• Credits, Acknowledgements & Thank you’s:
  

The late Ken Sproat‘s superb book ‘The History of Blyth Spartans’ was as ever an important source of information.

The following excellent websites provided important info and images:

https://www.southportfootballclub.co.uk/players/

– Southport FC’s superb online archive of their history provided great info on Frank’s wartime football.

https://therollingball.wordpress.com/match-reports-2/forest-v-luton-1959/

– Provided great info on the 1959 FA Cup Final.

The following pages provided info on Frank’s playing career –

http://www.thestatcat.co.uk

http://www.evertoncollection.org.uk

https://www.11v11.com

https://www.dunstabletoday.co.uk

– Provided a great old image of Frank in his Luton days.

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Players from the past – Edward Ward 1914 > 1920.

• This new series will feature profiles and stories of former Blyth Spartans players that many may not have heard of and that time has forgotten.

  Former Spartans from the clubs birth right up to WWII.
  First in the series is…

Edward Ward 1914 > 1920

Edward was born on 14th June 1895 in Whitehaven Cumberland to parents John and Catherine.
Ted was the youngest of five sons, his father was a coal miner and the family moved to Cowpen in Blyth when he took up work at Cowpen Colliery.
All five sons worked at the colliery including Ted aged only 15.

That was when he also started playing for Blyth Shamrocks, after 3 seasons he joined Northern Alliance side New Hartley Rovers in 1913.
He first came to Blyth’s attention on 17th September 1913 when a 4,000 crowd inside Croft Park saw Blyth beat Rovers 3-2 thanks to a last minute winner in an FA Cup Preliminary Round tie.
However it was the lighting pace of the 18 year old that had caught the attention, Ted scored the goal that had made it 2-2.

Such was his pace he was a regular winner of local professional sprint races and often took home more in race prize money than he earned for playing football.

He joined Blyth in 1914 when New Hartley Rovers disbanded fearing the impact WWI might have on the club, he scored 13 goals in his first season at Croft Park. In January 1915 Ted scored 6 goals in 3 games, on Saturday 23rd January he scored all the goals in a 4-0 Senior Cup home win over Mickley.
On Wednesday 3rd March he scored the winner in a 2-1 North Eastern League win over Gateshead it was his last goal that season before the war brought an end to football.

After WWI he rejoined the club and it only took him 8 days of the new 1919/20 season to get his first goal. He scored in the 2-0 North Eastern League home win over Newcastle United Reserves at Croft Park.
He would go on to score 10 goals that season, his form soon attracted the attentions of Liverpool & Everton but he rejected both offers to stay in his home town.
It was his performance in the final game of the season that landed him his dream move.
He starred in the 2-0 win against Newcastle United Reserves in the Aged Miners Cup Final at St James Park. So impressed with the speedy inside forward straight after the game United paid £300 for his services.

Ted made his debut on 28th August at SJP in front of 61,080 in the 0-0 draw with WBA.
His first goal came on 2nd October in the 3-0 win at Sheff Utd, he played 25 times in his debut season.
Surprisingly he failed to feature at all in the following season and was allowed to join Crystal Palace in June 1922 for £250.

He only made 4 appearances before a knee injury ended his season, he then moved to newly promoted Second Division side Nelson FC in June 1923.
Struggling to shake off the knee injury that still troubled him he only managed to play 2 games as they were relegated after only one season in the Second Division.

In November 1924 he joined Darlington playing in the side that secured promotion to the Second Division.
He wasn’t retained at the end of 1924/25 and signed for Third Division North Ashington.
It proved a great move for Ted, he scored twice on his debut in the 3-3 home draw with Wigan Borough.
He scored 10 goals in 25 games for the Colliers in their most successful season as a Football League side.
They finished 9th in the league beating the likes of Coventry, Crewe, Doncaster, Grimsby & Rotherham at Portland Park. The following season Ted featured regularly as they finished 16th, one place ahead of local league rivals Hartlepools United. He scored in the FA Cup 2nd Round 2-1 home win over his former club Nelson, before lost 0-2 at home to Nottingham Forest in the 3rd Round.

In 1928 he moved back across to Cumbria and joined North Eastern League Workington were he was appointed captain.

Ted ended his playing career with North Eastern League West Stanley while living back in Blyth with his brother John and sister Catherine and working as a general labourer.

Ted sadly passed away in 1971 aged 75.

———————————-

• Credits, Acknowledgements & Thank you’s:
  

The late Ken Sproat‘s superb book ‘The History of Blyth Spartans’ was as ever an important source of information.

Blyth Library’s excellent archive facility of the old ‘Blyth News’ papers once again proved a valuable source of information.

The following excellent websites provided important info and images:

https://www.nufc.com/

For anything & everything Newcastle United related, nufc.com is the place to go.

http://www.toon1892.com/

For details and profiles on every Newcastle United player, this superb website has it all.

Ashington FC ‘s Facebook page provided a great image of Ted and info on his time at the club.

 

 

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The Alan Shoulder story.

Alan made a name for himself in the legendary 1977/78 FA Cup run which ultimately earned him his move to Newcastle United.
Goal scoring exploits aside, given he
was a coal miner playing for a town so steeped in mining tradition Alan’s hero status was guaranteed.
To the hard working Blyth fans he was quite literally one of them.
The miner who went from working in darkness down the pit to the bright lights of St James’ Park, a true footballing rags to riches story.
But the story of his time as a Spartan is not quite as rosy as many think.

What seems to have been forgot, or maybe some didn’t even realise, is that he was with the club for less than a year. Having moved to Croft Park in early December 77 he was signed by United in late November 78, making his professional debut a day shy of a year on from his Spartans debut.

The story of his arrival and well publicised departure can been summed up as;
‘the one that very nearly didn’t happen’ and ‘the one that very nearly got away’
it all makes for quite an interesting read.

————————————————————–

Born in Bishop Auckland on 4th February 1953, Alan had never thought of playing professionally when he took up full time work as a miner aged 18.
His all action style and goalscoring exploits for Leeholme Juniors soon drew the attentions of Northern League teams.

Newly appointed Bishops manager Arnold Bell signed 19 year old Alan ahead of the 72/73 season to play alongside his new other new signing, Brian Slane from Blyth Spartans.
Alan established himself as an integral part of the Bishops side as they reached the FA Cup 2nd Round in 74/75. That season also saw him score a cup final winner when they lifted their first silverware in 8 seasons beating Ashington 2-1 in the League Cup Final at Croft Park of all places. He was top scorer for 3 seasons running and appointed club captain for the 76/77 campaign, he had also become regular in the Northern League’s Representative Select side.

After 5 years at Kingsway the 77/78 season started with him in dispute with the club which resulted in him refusing to play.
However Bishop Auckland were not prepared to let him leave and invoked the Northern League’s ‘February First rule’.
It stated that any player who appeared for his club after February 1st was automatically re-registered to that club for the following season. Bishops wouldn’t enter into discussions, they intended to keep Alan as the rule stated they were entitled too.
He wanted to leave so in protest refused to play for them that season, playing only Sunday League football to keep himself fit.

His former Bishops teammate Brian Slane had been appointed Blyth’s player manager in February 77. Alan played for Brian’s successful Rams Head FC Sunday League side which had won the 76/77 FA Sunday Cup. They had spoken over the summer about Alan joining him at Croft Park.
Having promised Brian in the summer he would join Blyth and despite numerous attempts by Bishops to resolve the situation he held out until the move happened.

It took until 6th December before Brian finally managed to strike a deal to sign Alan after agreeing to pay Bishops £200.
He made an immediate impact scoring the winner in the 70th minute of his debut the 1-0 home win over Durham City on Saturday 10th December 1977.
However the League’s Management Committee then denied him the opportunity of playing in the 1-0 FA Cup 2nd Round win over Chesterfield by not sanctioning the move in time. They delayed it because of something that had happened three years earlier!.

Manager Brian Slane explained:
“We had the deal done with Bishops and we tried to register him on December 2nd. However, because an illegal approach had been made to Alan back in 1974 which Bishops reported to the LMC they had to sanction this transfer. 
They didn’t meet to approve his transfer until December 8th and players needed to be registered at least 14 days before an FA Cup tie to qualify. We were the innocent party but were made to suffer for it due to bureaucracy”.

Alan heads home the winner against Enfield.

Alan scored again, on New Years Eve when Blyth beat Horden CW 1-0 away in the League Cup, before the goal that is mistakenly claimed as his debut goal.
On Saturday 7th January, Spartans beat Enfield 1-0 at Croft Park in the FA Cup 3rd Round.
5,095 packed into Croft Park and saw the diminutive striker head home the winning goal that ended the Isthmian League sides 32 game unbeaten run.
Many papers wrongly claimed it as his debut goal and as the years passed the Enfield game has wrongly been stated as his debut.

Now established as Terry Johnson’s strike partner, the Spartans famously beat Stoke City away in the 4th Round.
It was another header from Alan that set up the equaliser.
Having lead 0-1 at half time Stoke had rallied and taken a 2-1 lead.
Blyth won a free kick, Ron Guthrie’s thunderous effort crashed into the wall. The ball spun up over the Stoke keeper and onto his left hand post. Alan reacted the quickest but his header then agonisingly hit the opposite post before falling into the path of Steve Carney who hammered it home the equaliser, the Stoke defenders appealed in vain for offside.
Terry Johnson then famously won the game in the dying minutes when he fired home a dramatic winner.

Alan played in both the 5th Round games against Wrexham, the replay was the first time he played at St James’ Park.
He was to play at St James’ once more that season before it became his home ground.
It also provided him with his first medal as a Spartan when they beat North Shields 2-1 win the Senior Cup Final at St James’ Park.
Alan then added another two medals in the space of a week. He took his tally to 20 goals in 35 games, scoring twice as Blyth beat Willington 5-1 in the Northern League Cup Final.

The historic 77/78 season ended with a hat trick of medals when Spartans gained some revenge on Wrexham beating them 3-2 on aggregate to claim The Debenhams Cup.

The new 78/79 campaign started with the club on a high, however despite starting well things didn’t quite work out as hoped.
The final pre season friendly saw Dutch side FC Den Bosch beaten 4-1 at Croft Park. Alan scored his only Blyth hat trick under the watchful eye of Newcastle boss Bill McGarry.

In early October the club rewarded Alan with his first ever contract, but by the time the FA Cup came around again on 25th November he was at loggerheads with the club.
They had become embroiled in a bitter row than stemmed from the signing of his contract.
On Tuesday 31st October Alan submitted a shock transfer request.
He informed the club that he wanted to move closer to his Durham home, stating the travelling had become too much since recently moving pits to Horden Colliery:
“It’s 90 miles a trip and it’s getting harder and harder. I have changed pits where I work and this means a longer journey for me everyday, then going off to Blyth is no joke.
I will be sorry to leave but I’m not being fair to myself or the club if i can’t train.
I have got my job to think of more than anything else and that’s why I want a transfer”.

However the result of a Croft Park board meeting on Tuesday 7th November was a clear – ‘You stay at Blyth’.

The bombshell request for a move had come as the bitter row escalated.
Alan accused the club of discriminating against him for playing Sunday League football for Coundon Club after he signed his contract. He felt they did not take the same action against other players whom he claimed to know were also playing Sunday League.
Following his transfer request the club then suspended him for 10 days for breach of contract for playing Sunday League.
Alan was livid and a war of words ensure over the coming weeks:
“I played one game after signing the contract. I did this because I know, and everyone in the club knows, other Blyth contracted players have played Sunday football since the start of the season. They did not suspend them.
I only played one game and was suspended – I think I’ve have been hard done by. I’m upset about it and feel very bitter”.

Alan believed his request to leave had sparked the club’s actions, manager Brian Slane accused Alan of trying to ‘cast blame’ to try and draw it away from himself.
A claim he wasn’t having:
“Other players in the team have been playing on Sunday, they admit this. I asked Brian Slane what was going to happen to them and he said it was a different matter!.
If Blyth say  I can’t go, it will probably have to go to the FA. I will have to name names of other Blyth players playing on Sundays if it comes to that.
To suspend me and not them is just discrimination against me”.

The Blyth manager was at a loss on how the in the whole situation had come about and even offered a solution:
“I’m bitterly disappointed and very surprised he does not want to play for Blyth any more. He was out of non league football when I brought him to the club and provided him with the best season he has ever had. Alan was not forced to sign a contract and then he choose to play Sunday football.
Everyone is allowed a indiscretion. As far As I’m concerned the hatchet is buried. I hope he will accept his punishment and come back and play for Blyth.
If he finds the travelling too much he can train at home – many other clubs have players do this. Alan is the best striker in non league football – you can’t just pick up a replacement for him like that. The board have said he stays and I agree. There is no way we are going to let him go“.

A rival Northern League were reported to be interested in signing him and Alan admitted to having been approached.
Spennymoor United then approached the Spartans officially about signing Alan and the two clubs were reported to be in negotiations, Alan spoke about his impending move:
“I know Blyth and Spennymoor are talking now but I could not say when my transfer will go through. I’m sorry to leave Blyth but the travelling has just become too much. If i lived up there I would not want to leave especially when the cup is coming up again. But my job and home are more important”

He was adamant he was leaving but stated he was prepared to play on until his transfer went through but felt his form was suffering from missing training:
“Blyth might insist on keeping me but there would not be much point in doing that because there is no chance of me changing my mind. I’m very sorry to leave because Spartans are the best team I have played for, but I live nearer to Spennymoor”.

Spennymoor boss Kenny Banks would only admit his club were keeping a close watch on the situation:
“Obviously Alan is a good player and any club not interested in signing him would be insane. We like to have the best players in the league in out team and he certainly is one of them. We are watching the situation very closely now to see what happens”.

Banks would not be drawn on claims that they has spoken to the player before speaking to his club.
Alan missed three games due to the suspension, returning to the side as sub for the home league game against Whitby Town on Saturday 18th November.
He came off the bench to score in the 3-2 win at home win but by then the situation had taken a turn for the worse.

He submitted a second transfer request in an attempt to force the clubs hand, it was discussed at another board meeting.
As the club prepared for an FA Cup tie at York City officials reluctantly accepted they had lost the battle to keep their star striker.
Having been to watch York in action Brian Slane wasn’t giving up on his star striker:
“I consider him a very important part of my team and be would be a vital cog in the game against York City.”.

Unsurprisingly after the events of the last few weeks that York City game changed everything.

Alan is sent tumbling for the penalty at York City.

Alan started the tie at York and ran them ragged as Blyth deservedly earned a home replay. It was one of his trademark mazy runs that led to Blyth goal, winning the penalty  which Terry Johnson scored from.
Newcastle legend Jackie Milburn was a friend of Blyth chairman Jim Turney and had spoken to him and Brian Slane to get a picture of Alan’s character.
Scouting him again at both York City cup ties, Newcastle officials to make their move.
They spoke to Alan straight after York City replay, stating their interest and inviting him to a meeting at St James’ Park the following Monday.
The epic replay played on a snow covered Croft Park proved to be a fitting swansong in green & white for Alan.
He scored twice from the spot as the game went to extra time before the league team eventually ran out 3-5 winners.
However there was nearly yet another twist in the saga. After the final whistle York manager Charlie Wright approached Brian Slane in the Croft Park boardroom and asked him to name his price for Alan.
Brian response was to point to a gentleman stood with his back to them and say:
“See that gentleman over there, that’s Newcastle boss Bill McGarry he’s just agreed to sign for them”.
After only 48 games for the Spartans in which he scored 29 goals he was suddenly a professional footballer.
All parties agreed on the deal at the Monday meeting, the the deal was signed on the Tuesday. The fee was £20,000 with another £5,000 if he played a certain number of first team games. He met and trained with his new team mates on the Wednesday and made his debut on the Saturday.

Alan’s wages jumped from the £14 per week Blyth paid him to £180 per week awith another £300 bonuses on offer.
Having started a colliery under management course at Horden Colliery, United even offered Alan the chance to continue his studies provided it could be arranged it with the National Coal Board.

His debut was on Saturday 9th December at St James’ Park in the 2-0 win over Stoke City. He scored his first goal a week later firing home after only 7 minutes in the 3-1 win at Fulham.
He scored a very creditable 11 goals in 28 appearances that first season as United’s finished 7th in the Second Division.
In his three & half years at St James’ Park.
His all action non stop running performances saw him become a real crowd favourite. He made 117 appearances scoring 38 goals before being allowed to leave in the summer of 1982.
He was immediately snapped-up by Carlisle United manager Bob Stokoe.
His first season at Brunton Park was a great success, in 46 appearances he scored 21 goals.
It would take another 11 season before a Carlisle player scored 20 goals in a season, David Reeves in the 94/95.

Alan is presented with his Player of the Year Award.

Alan was voted their player of the season for 82/83, being presented the award on the ground at which he’s scored his first Newcastle goal five years earlier, Craven Cottage.
Carlisle’s New Years Day fixture of 1983 took Alan back to St James’ Park where he received a hero’s welcome from both the home and travelling support. He scored the game’s opening goal in a thrilling 2-2 draw.

Alan made 112 appearances in total for Carlisle scoring 32 goals but injury hit plagued 84/85 campaign, he moved to Hartlepool United.
The moved once again reignited his form, he played 76 times for Pools scoring 26 goals, he was top scorer in 85/86.
He made his final football league appearance aged 34 on Wednesday, 16th September 1987 in Hartlepool’s 2-1 home win over Cambridge United.
After 286 football league appearance and 91 goals an eye injury forced him to retire as a professional in December 1988, but he continued playing with Ferryhill Athletic.

Moving into management and coaching became assistant at Gretna, and then a coach at Newcastle Blue Star. He managed several clubs, including Coundon, Crook Town, Bishop Auckland, Willington, West Auckland Town and still played for Stanley. He was sent off at the ripe old age of 47 for arguing with a referee in a Durham Challenge Cup tie.
Alan still carried on playing ‘occasionally’, he was 53 years old when he played his final game, for Brandon United against Dunston.

After a brief spell as caretaker manager of Gateshead he return to Blyth in May 1988 being appointed manager.
He was one of five players from that 77/78 side to manage the club, but sadly his reign only lasted 14 games.
It is the shortest reign ever by a Blyth manager with only 4 wins from 14 games.
In a cruel twist of fate having made his name at Blyth in the FA Cup 11 years on it was to end his managerial career at Croft Park.
He resigned in early October 98′ following a 2nd Qualifying Round home replay defeat to Runcorn.

31 years after that famous 77/78 cup run Alan’s fame still shone brightly, he was guest on a BBC Football Focus feature about the cup run prior shown to the Spartans 3rd Round tie against Blackburn Rovers in 2009 –

Alan is a highly respected and hugely popular figure with North East football fans.
Always approachable, he loves recalling the stories of his career and of course getting together with his teammates from that famous
cup run which propelled him into professional football.

A true North East footballing legend.

———————–

• Credits, Acknowledgements & Thank You’s:

Thanks to –

Kevin Tilmouth, his recollections of the events during October/November 1978 inspired this article.

Mark Carruthers, supplied an image used.

Credits –

The late Ken Sproat‘s superb book ‘The History of Blyth Spartans’ was as ever an important source of information.

Blyth Library’s excellent archive facility of the old ‘Blyth News’ papers once again proved a valuable source of information.

The following excellent websites provided important info and images:

http://www.neilbrown.newcastlefans.com/

A superb database of all UK Transfers from 1946/47 and the end of the 2013/14.

https://www.nufc.com/

For anything & everything Newcastle United related, nufc.com is the place to go..

http://www.toon1892.com/

For details and profiles on every Newcastle United player, this superb website has it all.

http://www.inthemadcrowd.co.uk/UI/Home.aspx

For everything Hartlepool United related. History, old players, stats & facts this website has it all.

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Spartans super fan is still counting.

Being a lifelong supporter of a football club often means its becomes part of your family. Events are arranged, even rescheduled to fit in with matches.
For some fans certain games can be missed however others wouldn’t ever think of missing a game.
How about not missing a single game your club has played for 37 years !

That is what Blyth Spartans fan Jeff Young has achieved.

The club’s first game of 2024 was the 1,945th consecutive Spartans game he has watched since he last missed a game.
The levels of his dedication are shown by that game itself; a National League ‘North’ away game at Bishop Stortford!
540 mile round trip, an almost 5 hour drive, for a game that kicked off at 1pm!

Jeff can’t exactly recall his very first Spartans game but can vividly remember when his run started; Saturday 31st January 1987.

The date and game; North Shields at home in a Northumberland Senior Cup Quarter Final tie, is easy for him to recall.
It came four days after the club had made an epic 640 mile round trip to play at Bath City in a midweek FA Trophy 2nd Round replay.
The reason he can pin point it so easily is down to the fact he wasn’t at Twerton Park, Bath that night but he could and should have been.

All these years later its still annoys him he wasn’t at that game.
Back in January 1987 there was no mobile phones or internet so contacting your friends wasn’t as instantaneous as it is today.
He had been unable to find a lift to the game so resorted to following the match the only way possible back then, the black and green twilight world of Ceefax:
“I remember sitting in front of the television, waiting for the page to update, watching and waiting for the score to appear.”

In the late 80’s Ceefax was the main way football scores appeared to the mass public after the final whistle, but it was a slow process:
“I don’t think the score came through until half an hour after full-time. There was no instant communication in those days. Eventually I saw it – we won 1-0 after extra time”.

The following Saturday at the home game with North Shields he found out that some friends had driven down to the match. They were very surprised he had not made it down to Bath.
He recalled how they had wrongly assumed he was making his own way there:
“When I saw my mates at the North Shields game one asked, why didn’t you come to Bath?.”
Informing them he had no way of getting there, the reply wasn’t what he wanted to hear:
“You could have got a lift with us – there was space in the car!’
“Now you tell me, I thought. I didn’t know whether to laugh, cry – or hit him!”.

That is why the game against North Shields on Saturday 31st January 1987 is one he’ll never forget, it was the start of his extraordinary 37 year unbroken run.
I must be pointed out that despite wrongly assuming and causing him to miss that game at Bath City we are all still good friends and having enjoyed many great moments together since, such as beating Shrewsbury Town 3-1 at home in the FA Cup in November 2008.

As the years and season’s ticked by his unbeaten run somewhat crept up on him, it wasn’t until April 2005 that he even started to keep a record.
He recalled that it took another supporter reaching 1,000 consecutive games for him to realise just how many he had seen:
“I didn’t have a clue how many games I’d done – I didn’t keep count.
Then our former secretary, Anne Donnelly, did her 1,000th game in a row and received a lot of publicity.
I spoke to her, said I hadn’t missed a match since Bath, and asked how many I was on. Anne was very much the statistician. She came back a week or two later and said:
‘My 1000th game was your 700th game in a row’.

“After that, I lost track again. Then at the end of one season, I came in from work one day, and there was a card on the doorstep.
It said: ‘That game at Bamber Bridge was your 1,004th consecutive game. I’m glad there’s someone as crazy as me. The card was from Anne, and since then I’ve kept a record.”

Jeff, who grew up in from Stakeford but now lives in Blyth, was in opposing camps to his other school friends who supported Newcastle United, he supported his local team.
The draw of Newcastle United just never really appealed to him:
“When I was younger and Blyth didn’t have a home game, like other youngsters I was drawn to St. James’ Park. But it was so impersonal ­ I just don’t feel connected like I did when watching Blyth.
It just didn’t grab me the way watching Blyth Spartans had”.

Having started watching the Spartans in the 70’s he became hooked by the famous 1977/78 FA Cup run:
“I was a young lad, growing up, and to see those games was amazing,”
“It just kicked on from there. It’s difficult to sum up getting the bug. I simply got on the bandwagon and didn’t get off”.

Jeff has not just been a supporter all these years, he is one of the army of volunteers that keep the club going.
He has served in an several official capacities:
“It’s just great to be involved with the club.
It takes up all my spare time but I enjoy it – I wouldn’t do the jobs I do if I didn’t.
I’m first and foremost a supporter and if I can help in any way on top of that I will”.

After serving on the Supporters Club committee for 10 years the club asked him to become their match secretary.
In August 2012 when the clubs legendary kit man Tony Kennedy retired they approached him about taking over the role. For several years he combined the role of kit man and fixture secretary. A perk of holding those positions is that they have afforded him the benefit of travelling to matches on the team bus.
A little side hobby over the years from being the kit man has seen him accumulated the biggest known collection of Spartans shirts, including many rare match worn shirts.

That first game if 2024 was under the 13th manager he has worked with during his years as a volunteer.
When Jeff first volunteered at the club in 2002 when Paul Baker was the manager.
Since then he has seen Graham Fenton (caretaker), Harry Dunn, Mick Tait, Steve Cuggy, Tommy Cassidy, Paddy Atkinson, Tom Wade, Alun Armstrong,  Lee Clark, Michael Nelson, Terry Mitchell, Graham Fenton and now Jon Shaw all in the Croft Park hot seat.
Many past managers have acknowledged Jeff’s dedication and work for the club.
They have also benefited from his encyclopedic knowledge of past games and opponents Spartans faced over the years.

He has seen the clubs fortunes change considerably in his 32 year run.
From being the dominating force in the Northern League in the late 70’s and early 80’s to stagnating and almost folding in 1991.
In 1994 under new a regime the club finally took the long overdue step up onto the then named ‘Non League Pyramid’ and joined the Northern Premier League.
The move brought him whole new challenge. Away games in once seemingly far flung places such as Lancashire & Nottinghamshire were no longer just possible cup tie destinations, the likes of Fleetwood and Eastwood were now league opponents.

He has witnessed some great successes but life in the now ‘National League System’ hasn’t been without it’s problems.
In 2001 an unpaid tax bill saw the club come with hours of going under.
Since being saved by local businessmen the club has flourish.
Jeff has seen the ground that has become his second home transformed into the best Non League ground in the region.
Success on the pitch has also followed another NPL title and two historic FA Cup runs that took the famed cup fighters to the 3rd Round.

Unsurprisingly there is an FA Cup theme running through Jeff’s record.
His 1200th consecutive game was the live 3rd Round cup tie against Blackburn Rovers in 2009.
In September 2014 the BBC’s Radio London’s Non League Show named him as their ‘Fan of the Week’ when they heard he was approaching 1,500 games.

In November 2014 Blyth had battled their way to a 31st appearance in the FA Cup 1st Round.
The national football media picked up on the tie against Altrincham being his 1,500 consecutive game.
A comprehensive 4-1 win set up a 2nd Round tie away at struggling 2nd Division Hartlepool United.
The game was picked by the BBC for live coverage, as kit man he took his place on the bench as the Spartans pulled off a dramatic last gasp win on live TV.

Football isn’t his only hobby, Jeff is a serious music fan.
Before taking up the roles that afforded him travel on the team bus, countless away days on the supporters buses were always accompanied by his copy of the iconic magazine the Record Collector.
His other great passion is motor racing, a massive Formula One fan he recently achieved an ambition when he attended the iconic Monaco Grand Prix.

Despite having witnessed and even been part of some truly famous games in his remarkable run, Jeff’s all time favourite Blyth games isn’t one you would ever imagine.
None of the dramatic tie in the two recent runs to the FA Cup 3rd Round or any from the two recent NPL seasons that saw Blyth amass a remarkable 200 points.

The game is one that sums up what following your club through thick and thin is all about.
Your enjoyment of the cup run highs and success is amplified because you unwaveringly stood by your team during the difficult times.
His favourite game ever was nothing at stake Northern League game on a bitterly cold winters day in 1993.
Murton at home on Saturday 13th February.
It also happened to be departing manager Ronnie Walton’s last game in charge before he moved away due to work.
His side were without 3 keys players injured in a 8-3 mauling of Easington four days earlier.

Jeff recalled that bitterly cold February day:
“We had two men sent off and played for over an hour with nine men. It was 1-1 at the time. There was a group of us congregated behind the goal and none of us thought we’d win, but we did. It was incredible really.”

It was a remarkable performance from a Blyth side who showed that never say die attitude the club are known for. They had taken a 4th minute lead only for the visitors to level two minutes later and it soon got worse. In the 15th minute midfielder Steve Plaskett was sent off and then 20 minutes later left back Gary Hays was also shown a red card.
Despite intense pressure Blyth held out until half time and then remarkably took a 65th minute lead when Shaun Dunn fired home. With 10 minutes left the legendary Steve Pyle crash home a penalty after being sent tumbling in the box. Against the odds the 9 men Spartans were worthy of their 3-1 lead, Murton striker Paul Robson pulled a goal back in the 89th minute but Ronnie Walton’s side held on for the most unlikeliest of, but fully deserved victories.

Of the hundreds of players he has seen play for the club over the years picking his favourite XI was not an easy task:
“There have been so many great players. For me the 77/78 cup run side are the greatest Blyth team ever. So for me so to choose my all time XI, I would have to intentionally leave them out and pick other players”.

After much thought Jeff came up with his best XI and went for a 4-3-3 formation –

GK – Adam Bartlett.
Honourable mentions to Craig Turns and Mark Bell.

DEF – Michael Farrey, Alan Walker, Richard Pell, Dave Mitchinson RIP.
Honourable mentions to Gary Hays, Gareth Williams and Anth Lowther RIP.

MID – Paul Walker, Gareth McCabe, Stephen Turnbull.
Honourable mentions to Alex and Liam Gildea

FOR – Les Mutrie, Steve Pyle, Robert Dale .
Honourable mentions to Richie Bond, Scott Bell RIP, Paul Brayson and Dan Maguire.

____________________

How has he managed to achieve such a long run of attending games you may wonder.
While work commitments stop many others from regularly attending games his working hours have actually helped.
Jeff’s shift work job at an electronics factory has been a big factor in him getting the time off needed. Colleagues willing to swap shifts when games such a cup replays crop up at short notice has also been crucial:
“You have to have flexible shifts if you’re getting in from a midweek away game at 3am”.

Having watched his team play in Scotland and Wales he has clocked up some serious mileage over the years. His furthest travel came in December 2008 when the FA Cup 2nd Round draw put together the two teams geographically furthest apart.
A 727 mile round trip to see Blyth draw 0-0 with AFC Bournemouth.
Jeff is used to putting in the hard miles, his total includes a 500 mile round trip to Worcester for a midweek cup replay.
Then there was a midweek 428 mile round trip to Corby in February 2010, for a game which ended up being abandoned before half time due to fog with the Spartans losing 2-0!. He then did the exact trip again when the rearranged game was also played midweek.
On Tuesday 16th November 2021 he made another epic midweek trek, one that entailed him taking two shifts off work.
Blyth had been scheduled to play Hereford away on a Saturday in the 21/22 National League ‘North’ season but the game got moved to a midweek date due to cup competitions.
Leaving his home before 10am on the morning of the game to help organise everything needed for the trip, the team bus drove the 285 miles down to Hereford for the 7.45pm kick off.
However, by the time they returned in the early hours of the following day and he attended his duties before returning home he had missed his next shift at work!
He had been out the house for 24 hours, sat on a bus for over 10 hours, had to take two shifts off work and all for a 0-2 defeat, but it didn’t phase Jeff in the slightest, ‘it’s just what you have to do‘!

Now in the 37th year of his epic run which shows no signs of stopping anytime soon.

Pure dedication from a true Spartan.

—————————

Credits, Acknowledgements & Thank You’s:

Jeff himself – over the years of writing this blog he has helped enormously.
His memory and knowledge has proved vital, anything I can’t recall then a quick message to him and the reply is instant.

Several of our friends have helped provide some of the images used.

The following websites provided information from articles they’ve ran on Jeff’s achievements over the years –

http://www.betvictornorthernpremier.co.uk

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football

Also the clubs website & Twitter page has provided info and images used –

@Blyth_Spartans

http://www.blythspartans.com

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The Debenhams Cup finally comes home.

Back in May 2012 when I started this blog about Blyth Spartans history the first article I wrote was about their 1978 Debenhams Cup win.

That win holds a very important place in the clubs long and proud history as it is the only national competition they have ever won!.

The Debenhams Cup was one several 70’s football competitions that has long since been forgotten. 
Why it was never played again was unknown as was the whereabouts of the actual trophy itself.

Over the years several fruitless attempts had been made to find the trophy.
Prior to the club’s centenary exhibition in 1999 Blyth officials contacted the FA and Debenhams in an attempt to find it.
The FA replied stating they had no knowledge of it and Debenhams didn’t even reply.

Chester City were the inaugural winners in 1977 and returned the trophy ahead of the following years competition.
In February 2001 Chester City and Blyth meet in an FA Trophy tie. City’s match programme carried the story of their Debenhams Cup win and a piece on how they had previously tried to find the trophy.

It seemed the solid silver trophy had simply vanished without a trace.
That was until a snippet of information came to light in February 2019 that amazingly led to it resurfacing after all these years.

While researching information about the Spartans manager at the time of the competition, Brian Slane, I came across the briefest of mentions of the cup in the Blyth library archives.
A small article in an 1980 edition of the Blyth News led to the crucial breakthrough.
It reported that 2 years after winning the trophy Debenhams Head Office had contacted the club out of the blue requesting their trophy back.
With the competition not being staged again and with no request for its return forthcoming the club had simply kept hold of it.
The letter from Debenhams stated they wanted the trophy back to use for a golf tournament they were holding. So in the spring of 1980 club officials returned the trophy and that was the last it was heard of for 39 years.

That was until the remarkable events of Thursday 28th February 2019 unfolded and the power of social media took hold.

Having found the snippet of information I posted the updated news about the Debenhams Cup on my Blyth Spartans history Facebook page and also on a page dedicated to ‘English Football in the 70’s’.

That post was read by West Ham fan Michael Gibbins and triggered a distant memory.
Michael worked for Debenhams and replied stating that he possibly knew of the trophy’s whereabouts!.

Michael had started working for Debenhams in 1999 so was unaware of the previous attempts to find the trophy.
However, in 2013 they had moved Head Office and as part of his job in the Debenhams Facilities team he was tasked with getting all their archive material from its temporary home in Guildford to the new office in Regents Place, London.

Upon reading the post something struck a chord with him from that move six years earlier. He recalled there had been several trophies in a store-room in Guilford that were moved to the new office.

He went straight to the ‘store-room’ and sure enough his memory had served him well.
The Debenhams Cup was indeed one of those trophies.
In disbelief that it had been finally been found and seemingly in Debenhams possession all these years I asked if Michael could send photographic proof.

Enquiring if there was any way in which my club could have the trophy back, Michael showed my post to his boss Alison Flynn and told her the background story.
They were completely unaware of the relevance of the seemingly random trophy sat in their store room.
Alison also happened to be the Executive Assistant to the CEO of Debenhams PLC, Sergio Bucher.
She approached him and explained what had happened that morning.
He was fascinated to read all about their trophy, which was now proudly on display in the main office.
To his credit he didn’t hesitate for one moment in stating it should be back where it belonged, with Blyth Spartans.
Alison informed me of the good news and that she was arranging for its immediate return.

Debenhams Regional Manager Jo Golightly returns the trophy.

Within a matter of days it had been sent by courier up to the MetroCentre store in Gateshead for me to personally collect.
After all these years Debenhams PLC could not have been more helpful.
For a such big company who have more than enough to deal with in the current economic climate, their involvement in its return from an employee up to the CEO has to be commended.

The remarkable story was soon seized upon by the press.

Esteemed North East Footballer writer, John Gibson picked up on the trophy’s reappearance.
The voice of Newcastle United for the North East’s Chronicle newspaper since 1966, John has been involved with Non League football for many years and is a personal friend of many of Blyth’s 77/78 FA Cup heroes so he was very keen to run the story:

https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/blyth-spartans-fa-cup-debenhams-16040682

The story was also picked up by the papers multimedia team who were keen to run their own feature from a local history aspect:

https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/remarkable-how-blyth-spartans-found-16036161

The Chester press also ran the story, ChesterLive contacted me about the find and ran the story of how it had been found 42 years after they won it:

 

 

 

https://www.cheshire-live.co.uk/sport/football/debenhams-cup-finally-been-found-15866272

The club was informed of the remarkable find and arranged for me to present trophy to the manager who won the cup back in 1978.

It was the last trophy that club legend Brian Slane won as Blyth manager and he was delighted to be reunited with it. He was completely unaware of the trophies amazing story since that day back in May 1978.

The Debenhams Cup now takes pride of place in the clubs sponsors suite to proudly show off the club’s only national trophy.

 

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The history of the trophy, which stands 22 inches tall and weighs nearly 100 ounces, dates back to 1930 and was made by Sheffield silversmiths; Atkin Brothers.

The Atkin Brothers business traces it’s origin to Thomas Law, a silversmith active in Sheffield from c. 1750 to 1775.
The firm opened offices in London, managed by Harry Atkin, in 1925 and became a limited company as Atkin Brothers (Silversmiths) Ltd.
Manufacturing a range of electroplated, Britannia Metal, silver and plated cutlery they supplied many firms in the United Kingdom and the Colonies.

Having a London office led to them supplying cutlery and silverware to Debenhams from 1928 onwards. In 1930 they were tasked with producing the trophy, however there is no record of why it was originally commissioned or its use in the intervening years.
In 1977 the trophy was re appropriated for their newly sponsored football competition.
The engraving, which was a factor part in it resurfacing, was a late addition.
Publicity photos issued before the trophy was first presented in May 1977 show it without ‘The Debenhams Cup’ engraving.
It was engraved at some point prior to Chester winning it, images of their captain Alan Oakes with the cup clearly show the wording.
The Chester v. Port Vale match programme featured an entirely different image to that used on the Blyth v. Wrexham programme a year later and neither images have the engraving. Yet the Wrexham programme from the 1978 final 1st Leg shows a trophy with the engraving, all three images are different.

*No programme from the Port Vale v. Wrexham 1977 Final 1st Leg has ever come to light so what if any image appeared on it is unknown.

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While the Debenhams Cup is an important part of Blyth Spartans history it is an equally important part of the FA Cup’s history.

Uniquely it was the first time a sponsor had been associated with the competition.
It would be another 18 years before the FA allowed another company to be associated with its world famous competition.

An iconic and important piece of English football’s history has returned from the dead and is now proudly back where it belongs.

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Credits, Acknowledgements & Thank You’s:

Michael Gibbins – without his involvement absolutely none of this would have been possible.

The superb Facebook page – English Football in the 70’s – https://www.facebook.com/groups/346849565831873/
Without that Facebook page existing the trophy would probably never have been found.

Alison Flynn – Executive Assistant to CEO & Interim Chairman of Debenhams PLC for taking an interest and initiating the cups return.

Sergio Bucher – CEO of Debenhams for also taking such an interest in our club’s quest and agreeing to return the trophy.

Jo Golightly – Store Manager of Metro Centre Debenhams for arranging the hand over.

Journalists John Gibson & David Sedgwick – for picking up the story and giving it some much coverage locally.

The following newspapers for taking such an interest and running the story –
The Chronicle
ChesterLive
The News Post Leader

Blyth Spartans club photographers:
Kris Hodgetts – https://www.khphotos.co.uk/
&
Bill Broadley
who both supplied images used.

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