Author: nigelfreestone1960

Satirday 6 January 1912, wasn’t just another away fixture for Leicester Fosse; it was a day etched into the club’s history as a harrowing, almost unbelievable ordeal. Their visit to…

In the annals of Leicester City Football Club, few names resonate with the same enduring reverence as John “Johnny” Duncan. Dubbed “Tokey” by his peers, Duncan is rightfully described as…

In the rich tapestry of English football, some names shine brighter, while others, though foundational, reside in quieter corners. Thomas “Tommy” Clay is one such figure – the first player…

The iconic Action Man Footballer, a beloved part of the “Sportsman” range, didn’t just reflect the UK’s passion for football; it was deeply rooted in Leicestershire’s manufacturing prowess and had…

In 1938, the Leicester Mail captivated its readers with a series of talent competitions, one of the most popular being a challenge to select Leicester City’s most ‘skillful’ XI. Readers…

Without doubt, the most successful footballer ever to have come from the Coalville District was Joe Bradford, a man who didn’t just play football, he defined it. Born on January…

The piercing alarm that shattered the pre-dawn quiet of north west Leicestershire on Tuesday, April 19, 1898, heralded one of Leicestershire’s most devastating industrial tragedies: a raging “gob fire” deep…

Jim Mitchell, also known as Fred, who died 50 years ago (May 1975) holds a unique place in footballing history as the last man to play for England in a…

On Sunday, February 8, 1959, thousands of cheering fans gathered at Leicester Stadium for the “Showbiz” charity football match. The event featured comedienne Beryl kicking off the game and two…

Friar Lane Old Boys football club members preparing to travel to Lincoln United for an FA Vase quarter-final in the 1974-75 season The players featured in the photo are, from…