When one researches history one becomes aware of certain biases or omissions in other people’s work. George Haspell makes little or no mention of Tom Stelfox in his book for some reason for instance . I recognise that there were some managers and players I was not keen on but I have tried to keep my dislike from affecting what I have written in the book. Could anyone tell me details about Tom’s involvement in the club? I know it was a huge one so deserves mention.
WHS.
Nothing but admiration for Tom. His favourite story when he met u was that Witton had Seven shillings and sixpence in the bank when he took over. His wife Ethel also got involved as well. As u know he would circulate amongst the crowd at every game. He was the first to admit he knew very little about the game but he was brilliant at organising and encouraging others to get involved, always listened to others opinions and not afraid of giving them a try. As u know he was responsible for bringing the finest ever footballer to grace the Central Ground ( IMO) Ken Barnes. He fixed Ken up with a job in Manchester to supplement his wages and the only downside of that era was that we never really had much success but who could forget that FA Cup run ending so dramatically at Bradford. When we moved from the CG to Wincham I don’t think that Tom was that much involved otherwise things may have been different ?
Lost count on the number of times Tom left his umbrella on the train from Manchester but that was Tom.
Never be another I’m afraid - they broke the mould !
I remember him with great affection too. We turned out one day in a kit that looked just like that of Manchester United, naturally I complained bitterly to him as he walked by as did a few others, we never wore it again!!
As for the book, more information. If I knew how I would put samples of books produced by the publisher on here, I will put them on Facebook on my site, they look excellent. If I do order more the price will come down but not by much, consequently the selling price will remain at £10 with the extra profit going to the club. A word of warning to those who have not ordered. If I have to ask for more after the initial run they would probably cost at least £15 each, maybe more so please, order now.
WHS.
Re Tom.
He came onto the Board in 1959 but when he left and when he was Chairman or President I have no idea.
WHS.
Tom handed over to Paul Broadhurst so i am sure Paul could add some details for the book ! and as he dealt with the move he could help their also.
Don’t know if I’m too late for book title suggestions, but how about Bookie Mc Bookface or failing that- Witton Albion- Only One Team in Northwich.
When I joined the board in the 1991-92 season, Ian Dobson was Chairman, and Tom was President. In the middle of the season, Derek Shirley (who was the Social Club Director) took over from Ian.
I like, but “NO”!!
WHS.
When did Tom die? I don’t need loads of info on background stuff as my version of the history is very much concentrated on the playing side but bits of info on the move and other such stories might be useful.
WHS.
I am trying to compile a list of board members over the years, got one hell of a lot thanks to George Haspell and Paul Lavell but modern ones are harder to find. I am also including the names of Sammy Stanley, Queenie Price etc and other people who may have done a lot of unsung work for the Albs over the years. I recognise I am going to leave some people out but it won’t be for the want of trying! Any suggestions will be gratefully received. (Nigel’s second name for one!!)
WHS.
Seriously I am sure his surname is Nutt !
Yes it is.
Mr and Mrs Redmond
Some names I remember are Peter Mather, Gordon Bennett, Colin Cooper, Vince Conneely & Ted Meadows.
You are right about Nigel. Thanks for the names Charlibel, added to the book. (Initials?)
WHS.
1 Like
If their initials are C and F I already have them.
WHS.
Can I have a copy please WHs is there a discount if I only have a history until 27th June 2015, sorry my 60th birthday is 1 hour away and I am missing WAFC . But that’s life so they say !
Ps I will send my money with Pencil
It was Gladys and Fred Redmond plus Roy Coombes and the other tea hut was run by Linda Johnson .
WHS - Lots of materials inc huts,ashes,sheeting came from ICI ( mostly unofficially ) to keep the Central Ground going !