Celebrating the “Double Double” Bilston Town team
of 1960/61
On Saturday afternoon I was invited to be a guest
at Bilston Town’s home game against Warstones Wanderers, along with my
friend Bert Turner, councilor for Bilston East and Wolverhampton’s
Mayor for the coming year.
Before the game, club Chairman Graham Hodson gave
an eloquent and moving speech about what the club meant to the town and
explained that he had spent months bringing together former players from
the club’s strongest period in the 1960s. In particular, he spoke
about the “double double” team of 1960/61 when both the first team and
the reserves had won league and cup doubles.
Many of the players from that era were present on
Saturday and were presented with commemorative medals from Graham and
Bert Turner. Each was acknowledged and thanked for everything they
had done for Bilston Town FC.
I want to thank Graham and all responsible for
Saturday. It had been a huge effort getting the former players
together but it was well worthwhile. It meant a lot to the players
and it was a good reminder of how important the club is in the history
and cultural fabric of Bilston. The team has been there for over
100 years and it’s hard to put a price on the importance of a football
team as part of an area’s identity.
Running any non league football club like this is
not easy when funds are scarce and young kids are understandably tempted
by the big crowds and matches on Sky sports. I remember just a few
years ago when the club was going through a very difficult period, with
the ground constantly being broken into and the team eventually having
to play in Bantock Park. But now the team are playing back where
they belong and, although it is a constant struggle to pay the bills,
hopefully things are on the up.
The Beatties Trust were also present on Saturday
and announced that they would fund the resurfacing of the pitch for next
season, a welcome boost for the club.
So well done to Graham and all at Bilston Town FC and many thanks for inviting me along.
Tel: 020 7219
4036
Fax: 020 7219 5665
