LIST OF PLAYERS 1883-1898:
Appearances/Goal statistics are based on available match reports/team line-ups, which did not appear regularly in the local press until the 1887/1888 season. Early match reports were provided by George Arthur Maley, football correspondent for the Coventry Reporter newspaper, who wrote under the nom-de-plume “Dribbler”. Maley was born in Birmingham on 4 July 1862. He joined the newly launched Midland Daily Telegraph (Coventry) newspaper in February 1891. In September 1894 William Ironside McGhie became football correspondent for the MDT. He wrote under the pseudonym “Nemo”. McGhie was born in Rugby on 26 October 1878. Most of the early players were employees of the Singer Company. In later years Singer F.C. often recruited the best young players from local teams, for example Rudge F.C. and Foleshill Great Heath F.C. This bolstered the team and provided an opportunity for young local talent to improve their game whilst playing against better quality opposition.
HERBERT THOMAS WILLIAM TURNER, goalkeeper/utility player
17 appearances, 2 goals
He previously played for Coventry Association F.C. (MDT 23/4/1927). Herbert was born in Coventry circa 1869. He was employed as a bicycle machinist at the Singer factory. He was prominent in the formation of Singers F.C. in 1883. His first known appearance was in the home friendly match against the Royal Artillery F.C. (Coventry) on 7/11/1885. Singers won 12-1. Between 1888 and 1893 he made 23 appearances for Singers Reserves. The most famous of those games was against Leek Wootton F.C. ( Warwickshire) in December 1891. He vacated his goalkeeping position and scored a goal in Singers’ 22-0 victory. The defeat for Leek Wooton would have been greater had the referee not disallowed six goals scored by the Reserves! Herbert was a member of the company’s Picnic Committee. He was also a playing member of the Singers Cricket Club. In 1889 he was Secretary of the Singers Cycling Club. He married Jane Southorn on 20 December 1890 at Saint Peter’s Church, Hillfields. The 1901 Coventry Census confirms the Turner family was living at 34 Winchester Street, Hillfields. He was a coffin bearer at the funeral of George Singer on 7 January 1909.
Herbert died aged 43 in Coventry on 18 April 1912.
HENRY WILLIAM BARNACLE, full back/half back
8 appearances
He was born in Coventry in 1858. Henry married Sarah Bunney at Saint Michael’s Parish Church, Stoke, Coventry on 29/12/1878. In 1881 the couple lived in Earl Street in the city centre. Henry was employed as a brass polisher. His first known appearance for the club was in the home friendly game against the Royal Artillery F.C. (Coventry) on 7/11/1885. Singers won 12-1. The Coventry Burgess Roll (1885-1886) confirms he was employed as a bicycle fitter and resided at 30 East Street, Hillfields. His last appearance for the Vocalists was in the home friendly game against Bournville (Birmingham) 17/3/1888. Singers drew 2-2. He was a player and secretary for Sparkbrook Wanderers F.C. (Birmingham) in March 1889. He became a qualified referee and officiated in Coventry during the 1889/1890 season. Occasionally he was an umpire (linesman) for the Vocalists. The 1921 Coventry Census confirms he was a widower residing in Much Park Street. Henry worked as a brass finisher at Rotherham & Sons Company, Spon Street Works.
He died aged 69 in Coventry in 1927.
J. HERBERT, full back/half back
1 appearance
His only game for the first team was in the home friendly against the Royal Artillery F.C. (Coventry) on 7/11/1885. The Vocalists won 12-1. The Coventry Herald newspaper (17/4/1903) confirms he was one of the earliest players for the club.
J. SHAKESPEARE, inside forward
His playing record for Singers is unknown. A player named Shakespeare was a member of the Coventry Association F.C. team. He played for that club against Kenneth Rotherham’s XI on 20/9/1884. Rotherham’s team was composed entirely of Coventry RFC players and lost 3-0. The Coventry Herald (17/4/1903) suggests Shakespeare was one of the earliest players for the Vocalists.
SAMUEL “SAM” HEATH (BULLIVANT), half back/inside forward/winger
Singers F.C. First Team, 45 appearances, 24 goals
Singers F.C. Reserves, 18 appearances, 10 goals
He was born in Lawrence Street, Birmingham on 29 January 1866. His father, John Bullivant, had died the previous year. His mother, Elizabeth Bullivant, married William Heath in 1879. Sam played under his adopted surname “Heath”. According to the 1881 Birmingham Census the Heath/Bullivant family lived at 26 Poole Street, Aston. They had moved to Coventry by 1883. Samuel was a founder player of the football club and was employed as a bicycle fitter at the Singer factory. The first team line-up appeared in the local press for the home friendly match against the Royal Artillery (Coventry) on 7/11/1885. A player named “Heath” is listed in that team line-up. Singers beat the Royal Artillery 12-1. Samuel’s playing career was cut short by injury. His
last reported game for the club was against Leicester Teachers F.C. on 25 October 1890, a match which the Vocalists won 6-3. Samuel married Jane Whitehouse on 8 November 1890 at Saint Peter’s Church, Coventry. At the time of his marriage he resided at 16 Gilbert Street, Hillfields. His bride was related to Joe Whitehouse, who later played for the Vocalists and CCFC. The 1891 Coventry Census confirms he lived at 50 Vernon Street, Hillfields. Also living there was William Cashmore, the former Singers player and current Principal Trainer. When Samuel retired from playing, he was appointed Assistant Trainer and later replaced Cashmore in 1908. Sam was also a qualified referee and officiated in local matches. He was a trainer for Stoke Albion F.C., who won the Bedworth Nursing Cup during the 1915/1916 season.
Samuel died in Coventry aged 72 at home, 94 North Street, Upper Stoke, on 13 September 1938. He was interred at Coventry Cemetery four days later.
Note: Albert was Samuel’s older step-brother and was 17 years old in 1883. Samuel played under his adopted name of Heath, but he was born Samuel Bullivant. He was 17 years old in 1883. It has not been possible to determine individual appearance records for these two players. Samuel’s older brother, William Henry Heath (Bullivant) also played for the club. He was 20 years old in 1883 and played for Singers F.C. Reserves in their first match. It has not been possible to determine if he made any appearances for the first team.
ALBERT WALTER HENRY HEATH, half back/inside forward/winger
He was born in Birmingham on 6/11/1865. The 1881 Birmingham Census confirms he was living with his family, including Samuel Bullivant, at 26 Poole Street, Aston. Albert married Mary Ann Sills at Saint Peter’s Church, Coventry on 29/5/1887. The 1891 Coventry Census shows the couple resided in Cobden Street, Hillfields. Albert was employed as a bicycle fitter.
In 1911 he was employed as a motor & bicycle machinist and lived at 53 Queen Street. He later worked as a motor frame builder at the Triumph Cycle Factory in Priory Street. In 1920 Albert had been unwell for some time. He attempted to commit suicide, for reasons unknown, on 18 November by inflicting a wound to his throat. A policeman and a civilian were propping Albert up in his garden shed, when Sergeant Clowes arrived on the scene. He rendered first aid before Albert was taken to hospital by ambulance. His case was heard at the Coventry City Police Court on 3 December. He was charged with attempted suicide, but was discharged after promising not to repeat the offence.
Albert died aged 84 in Coventry in 1950. At the time of his death he was living at 59 Lime Tree Avenue, Lime Tree Park.
WILLIAM HENRY HEATH (BULLIVANT), winger
He was born in Aston, Birmingham in 1863. The 1881 Aston, Birmingham Census shows he lived with his family at 26 Poole Street. He was employed as a gun percussioner. William married Louisa Ryder on 6/8/1888 at Saint George’s Parish Church, Birmingham. He played football under his adopted name of Heath and was a member of the Singers F.C. Reserves team which competed in its first game. This was against Excelsior Nondescripts F.C. (Coventry) at the Stoke Road Ground on 13/10/1888. The Reserves won 4-0 and he scored a goal. James Grady, Fox and Ashmore provided the other goals. This was the Nondescripts first match and the team was most likely connected to the Excelsior Bicycle Works situated in Lower Ford Street, Hillfields. In 1891 William and his family resided at 3 Spring Street, Hillfields. He was now employed as a bicycle fitter. By the turn of the century he and his family had moved to Aston Manor, living at 2 Anglesey Street. According to the 1911 Solihull Census the Bullivant family resided at the Institute Villas, Berkeley Road, Hay Mills. William worked as a bicycle builder.
He died aged 48 in Solihull in 1911.
HENRY “HARRY” HATHAWAY, centre half
6 appearances
Henry was born in Aston, Birmingham on 27 April 1858. He came to Coventry circa 1880 having secured employment as a bicycle machinist at the Singer factory. He resided at 22 Yardley Street, Hillfields. Henry was prominent in the formation of Singers F.C. in 1883. His first known appearance for the club was in the home friendly match against the Royal Artillery F.C. (Coventry) on 7/11/1885. Singers won 12-1. The Coventry Burgess Roll (1884-1885) confirms he lived at 20D Alma Street, Hillfields. Henry replaced Willie Stanley as club secretary circa 1885. On the pitch he proved to be a reliable and resolute defender. He occasionally played for Singers rugby union team. His last appearance for the Vocalists was on 7/4/1888 in the home friendly game against Langley Green Victoria (Oldbury). Singers lost 7-1. Henry was secretary of the Coventry Reporter Newspaper Boot Fund, a charitable organisation which raised money to provide shoes for local poor children. He secured employment at the Humber Bicycle Works in 1890 and became a committee member of the Rudge Football Club that same year. In 1891 he became a member of the Coventry & District Junior Rugby Association and secretary of the Quinton Cycling Club (Coventry). At this time he resided at 61 Lower Ford Street, Hillfields and had Thomas Cashmore, the Singers full back, as his next door neighbour. By 1901 the Hathaway family had left Coventry and moved to Hunslet in Yorkshire.
Henry died aged 69 in Leeds on 26 November 1927.
SOUTHAM, half back
1 appearance
His only known appearance was in the home friendly match against the Royal Artillery F.C. (Coventry) on 7/11/1885. Singers won 12-1.
Note: Possibly Samuel Josiah Southam who played for Coventry Association F.C. According to the 1871 Census, Samuel was employed as a watch jeweller and lived at 44 Mount Street, Chapelfields.
Also Note: Possibly George Southam who played for Godiva Rovers F.C. (Coventry) (Coventry Herald 1/3/1889). In 1890 he lived at 26 Winchester Street, Hillfields and was employed as a bicycle machinist. Godiva Rovers played under association and rugby union rules.
GEORGE EDWARD BOWERS, right wing/forward
5 appearances, 1 goal
He was born in Wolverhampton on 28 December 1865. The Bowers family came to Coventry in 1882 and lived in Cox Street in the city centre. George was employed as a bicycle machinist at the Singer Works and is the step-brother of Willie Stanley. Geoerge was prominent in the formation of Singers F.C. in 1883. His first known appearance for the club was in the home friendly match against the Royal Artillery F.C. (Coventry) on 7/11/1885. The Vocalists won 12-1. His solitary goal was scored in the home friendly game against Saint Gabriel’s F.C. (Birmingham) on 1/12/1886. Singers won 3-0. He occasionally played for Singers rugby union team. The Coventry Burgess Roll (1885-1886) confirms he resided at 1 Vine Street, Hillfields. George married Harriet Preedy in Coventry on 4/9/1887. He retired from playing football in 1888. His last game for the Vocalists was on 25 February of that year. This was the Birmingham Junior Cup Semi-Final cup-tie against Victoria (Birmingham) which Singers lost 3-2. George remained a member of the football club and occasionally performed the duty of linesman. He also became a qualified referee and officiated many games locally. He continued to be employed in the bicycle trade, but in later years worked as a fried fish dealer and watch maker. George died aged 85 in Exhall, Coventry on 8 March 1951. He is buried in London Road Cemetery.
HARRIS, inside forward
1 appearance
His only known appearance for the first team was in the home friendly match against the Royal Artillery F.C. (Coventry) on 7/11/1885. Singers won 12-1.
WILLIE STANLEY, centre forward
1 appearance
He was born in Birmingham on 12 February 1861. He came to Coventry in 1881 and was employed as a bicycle machinist at the Singer Works. He initially resided at Fox Yard, off Rood Lane, located in the city
centre. He took a leading role in the formation of Singers F.C., this being inaugurated on 13/8/1883. Willie married Sarah Bailey in Wolverhampton four months later. The couple resided at 11 Vine Street, Hillfields. His only known appearance for Singers was in the match against the Royal Artillery F.C. (Coventry) on 7/11/1885. Singers won 12-1. He left Coventry circa 1885 or 1886 and relocated to Ryecroft, Walsall, where he started his own bicycle repair/retail business. Sarah Stanley died in March 1895. Willie’s second marriage was to Agnes Evans in May 1896. His business venture in Walsall failed so he returned to Coventry. The 1901 Census confirms he was living at 4 Days Lane, Hillfields. Willie’s brother, Enoch Stanley, had established the Stanley Cycle Company at 5 Days Lane.
There is a strong possibility that Willie and George Bowers worked with Enoch.
Willie died aged 72 at home, 27 Charterhouse Road, Stoke, Coventry on 13 June 1933. He is buried in London Road Cemetery.
FRANCIS “FRANK” MOSELEY, inside forward
22 appearances, 9 goals
Francis was born in Birmingham on 20 December 1864. He was prominent in the formation of Singers F.C. in 1883. His first known appearance for the club was in the home friendly game against the Royal Artillery F.C. (Coventry) on 7/11/1885. Singers won 12-1. He also played in the home friendly match against Saint Gabriel’s (Birmingham) on 11/12/1886. He scored a goal in Singers 3-0 victory. The 1891 Census confirms he was employed as a bicycle fitter at the Singer factory. He lived at 38 Aylesford Street, Hillfields. close to the Lord Aylesford Inn, where the football club was formed. His last match for the Vocalists was against Aston Shakespeare F.C. (Birmingham) on 2 March 1889. This ended in a 2-2 draw. After retiring from playing football he became the club’s official umpire (linesman). Frank was appointed Assistant Secretary to James George Morgan, prior to the 1889-90 season. He was also appointed to the Singers F.C. Committee which he served until 1896.
Francis died aged 60 at Birmingham General Hospital on 31 July 1925. At the time of his death he was employed as a bicycle mechanic.
CLARKE, left wing
1 appearance
His only known appearance for the club was in the home friendly game against the Royal Artillery F.C. (Coventry) on 7/11/1885. Singers won 12-1.
THOMAS DOWELL, position unknown
His appearance record is unknown.
Note: Possibly related to Samuel Dowell, a provision dealer with business premises situated in Far Gosford Street. Samuel rented out his Far Glade field (just off Binley Road) to Singers F.C. between 1883 and 1887. Thomas Dowell was employed as a general labourer and lived at 129 Far Gosford Street, according to the Coventry Burgess Roll (1884-1885). He appears on the club’s first team-group photograph.
JAMES GRADY, inside forward/centre forward
Little is known about his playing record. He made two appearances for Coventry Association F.C. during the 1885/1886 season. He played at inside forward against Saint Andrews F.C. (Small Heath) on 21 November. His other game was at centre forward in the Coventry Association Married XI versus Singles XI fixture held on 12 December.
James was born in French Park, Roscommon, Ireland circa 1862 according to the 1921 Census. Earlier Census records list his birthplace as being Wolverhampton. He is pictured on Singers’ first team-group photograph which suggests he was one of the earliest players for the club. James married Mary Ann Pendleton at Saint Thomas’s Church, Coventry on 25/4/1886. He was centre-forward for Singers F.C. Reserves in the match against the Excelsior Nondescripts F.C. on 13/10/1888. The Nondescripts team was raised by W. Cummings who was their captain and goalkeeper, and were most likely connected to the Excelsior Bicycle Factory situated in Lower Ford Street, Hillfields. The Reserves won 4-0. Grady played at inside forward for Singers F.C. Reserves against Cheylesmore F.C. (Coventry) at the Stoke Road Ground on 12/1/1889. The Reserves won 3-0. He also played for Rudge F.C. in their inaugural match after the club was formed. This was against the Foleshill Liberal Club F.C. at Foleshill on 23/3/1889. Rudge won 10-0 and Grady scored the third goal. According to the 1891 Coventry Census he was employed as a bicycle machinist/fitter, most likely at the Rudge Factory, and lived at 22 Vincent Street, Spon End. He proceeded to make several appearances for Rudge F.C. and was a member of that company’s cricket & cycling clubs. The 1921 Census confirms he resided with his family at 45 Bramble Street, Lower Stoke. He was employed as a bicycle fitter at Humber Limited, Humber Road.
James died aged 58 in Coventry on 2/7/1921.
ANDREW POOLE, goalkeeper
26 appearances
He was born in Coventry in 1858 and married Sarah Ann Morris at All Saints Church, Coventry on 21/10/1878. The 1881 Coventry Census states the Poole family resided at Court 5, 3 Freeth Street, Hillfields. Andrew’s occupation is given as a watch finisher. He was prominent in the formation of Singers F.C. in 1883. His first known appearance for the club was in the home friendly match against Saint Gabriel’s F.C. (Birmingham) on 11/12/1886. Singers won 3-0. Andrew sustained a serious injury in the friendly match against Headingley F.C. (Birmingham) at Stoke Road Ground on 15/12/1888.
Singers won 2-0, but he broke his ankle during the game and was taken to hospital. The injury was deemed bad enough to prevent him from working for two or three months. Three days later the Singers Football/Cycling/Cricket Clubs attended a Smoking Concert. Walter Hewitt (who became a Vice-President of Singers F.C. at the AGM held on 24/7/1889), suggested a collection should be made for Andrew to minimise the impact of lost wages. James Charles Stringer (business partner of George Singer) contributed a gold half sovereign (5 shillings – equivalent to approximately £42 in 2025). The amount collected overall was significant although no exact figure was disclosed. Headingley F.C. offered to play the Vocalists in a benefit match for Poole, but unfortunately no suitable date could be identified. His last appearance for the club was in the home friendly game against Bournville F.C. (Birmingham) on 21/12/1889. This was in the Birmingham Junior Cup 2nd Round. Singers won 3-0. The 1891 Coventry Census confirms Andrew was employed as a bicycle brass brazier and resided at 12 Payne’s Lane, Hillfields. In 1911 he was living at 23 Payne’s Lane and was employed as a “coppersmith in a motor works”. Walter Harris, regarded as the club’s first historian, wrote an article in the MDT on 12/9/1936 regarding early Singers players. He made this comment: “Andrew Poole, whose daring exploits in goal, won much admiration”.
Andrew died aged 60 at home on 3 February 1919. He was interred at Coventry Cemetery (London Road) five days later. If he had lived another 35 days, he would have learned on 10 March that Coventry City F.C. had successfully been elected to the Football League Second Division.
JOSEPH CHARLES “JOE” COLLINS, full back
46 appearances, 3 goals
First known captain of Sinder F.C.
Joe was born in Lyndon, West Bromwich on 25 September 1867. He was employed at the Singer factory as a bicycle machinist. He was a robust defender who previously played for Coventry Association F.C. Joe’s first known appearance for the club was in the home friendly match against Saint Gabriel’s F.C. (Birmingham) on 11/12/1886. Singers won 3-0. The match report for this game confirms he was team captain, a position he fulfilled until the end of the 1888-89 season. His football career was cruelly cut short by a freak accident which happened at the Muntz Street Ground, Birmingham on 22 February 1890. Singers faced Small Heath Reserves F.C. (Birmingham) in a Birmingham Junior Cup Third Round Replay. A few minutes into the game, Joe collided with Bushill, an opposing forward. Collins fell to the floor and Bushill landed on Joe’s head and body with a crushing thump. Collins lay motionless on the grass and was clearly in distress. Doctor Ratcliffe, who happened to be watching the game, rushed to the scene. He realised Joe was paralysed. Collins was taken to Queen’s hospital in a taxi-cab. Doctors diagnosed a concussed spine and possibly a broken back. The consensus was he had just a few hours to live. Thankfully, he survived and was discharged from hospital a few days later. A Joe Collins Benefit Fund was soon established from which he received financial assistance. Joe married Annie Sadler on Christmas Day 1890 at the Wesleyan Methodist Chapel, Warwick Lane, Coventry. The 1891 Census confirms the couple lived at 16 Hood Street, Hillfields.
On 11 July 1893, Joe was appointed Singers F. C. Secretary at the AGM held at the White Lion Hotel. He replaced Teddy Kirk. The following year the Collins family moved to 48 Highfield Road. Joe was a coffin bearer at the funeral of George Singer on 7 January 1909. His great grand-daughter Jenny Williams, when interviewed said: “He was a gentle giant, very quiet and a real family man. He read a lot of books and was also an accomplished artist specialising in pencil drawings. He smoked a pipe for many years and had a big appetite for meat, especially those cuts which bore a large fat content. He was a very keen cyclist, often making the return journey from Sharnford to Leicester. He cycled beyond his 80th birthday and when he visited people, would stop by the roadside and draw rural scenes. His favourite subject seemed to be trees”. In his later years Joe sought other employment opportunities. He eventually moved to Guildford, Surrey and became a “Lighterman” on the River Thames. This occupation involved the transferring of goods between ships and quays. The goods were loaded aboard flat-bottomed barges called “Lighters”. It was an extremely skilled job which required a good knowledge of river currents and tides. It also demanded a lot of muscle-power using long oars and paddles. Joe later moved back to Leicestershire to live with his son in Sharnford. His last employment was as an engineer’s examiner.
Joe died at the Sundial Nursing Home, Aylestone Road, Leicester on 21 December 1956. He was 89 years old.
RAINBOW, half back
1 appearance, 1 goal
His only known appearance for the club was in the home friendly match against Saint Gabriel’s (Birmingham) on 11/12/1886. He scored a goal in Singers 3-0 victory.
WILLIAM HARDY, half back
1 appearance
He was born in Buckminster, Lincolnshire circa 1850. He married Jane Elizabeth Heston in Birmingham on 9 December 1872. The 1881 Coventry Census shows the Hardy family resided at 31 Paradise Street, city centre. William was 31 years old and employed as a hatter & hosier’s assistant. The Coventry Burgess Roll (1885-1886) states the Hardy family lived at 33 Smithford Street, city centre. His only known appearance for the club was in the home friendly game against Saint Gabriel’s (Birmingham) on 11/12/1886. Singers won 3-0. The 1891 London Census confirms the Hardy family had moved to Marylebone and resided at 298 Edgware Road. William was now employed as a hosier manager.
HENRY “LITTLE HARRY” BANKS, winger/inside forward
66 appearances, 39 goals
Henry was born in Coventry on 3/12/1863. He was affectionately known as “Little Harry” due to his diminutive stature. The 1881 Birmingham Census confirms he was employed as a die sinker and resided in Aston. He commenced his football career with Saint Savior F.C. (Saltley, Birmingham) before joining Saltley Villa F.C. When he came back to Coventry he initially played for Coventry Association F.C. Harry was prominent in the formation of Singers F.C. in 1883. He was employed as a bicycle machinist at the Singer Works. His first known appearance for the club was in the home friendly game against Saint Gabriel’s F.C. (Birmingham) on 11/12/1886. Singers won 3-0. Matches against Rudge were always competitive. Harry sustained a nasty injury during a home game against the local rivals on 12/10/1889. He scored a goal in the 2-0 victory, but suffered the loss of two teeth and a cut lip for his exploits.His last match for the Vocalists was against Leicester Fosse F.C. on 19 November 1892. Singers won 1-0. He made a guest appearance for Southfield F.C. (Birmingham) against Singers two weeks later. He then became ill with consumption which effectively forced him to “hang up his boots”. The Vocalists played a benefit match for him against Hednesford Town F.C. on 10 February 1894. Singers won 2-1.
Henry died aged 30 at his home, 17 Winchester Street, Hillfields on 28 December 1894. He is buried in London Road Cemetery. His death certificate indicates he was employed as a toolmaker. Harry’s goal scoring record is impressive and he quickly became a crowd favourite. Such was his popularity as a player, the football fraternity in the city mourned his sudden death, as announced by the Coventry Mercury newspaper on New Year’s Day.
HENRY “HARRY” BOWKETT, full back
21 appearances, 2 goals
He was born in Wolverhampton circa 1868. He came to Coventry approximately twenty years later having secured employment at the Rudge bicycle factory. His earliest known appearance for the Vocalists was in the home game against Bournville Villa (Birmingham) on 26/11/1887. This was in the Birmingham Junior Cup Second Round. Singers won 4-0. Harry was a qualified referee and officiated the match between Singers Reserves and Excelsior Nondescripts on 13 October 1888. It was Singers’ first reserve game and they won 4-0. His last appearance for the Vocalists was against Gerontes F.C. (Rugby) on 23 February 1889. Singers won 3-0 at the Stoke Road Ground. Two days later Harry attended the inaugural meeting of the Rudge Football Club, held at the Bull Field Inn, Moat Street, Butts. He was a founder player of that club and his loyalty lay with them thereafter. Harry married Emily Price at Saint Thomas’s Church, Coventry on 30 January 1890. He was a member of the Birmingham & District XI which played against the Leicestershire League XI on 15 March 1890. The game was held at the Stoke Road Ground. A crowd estimated at 1,400 witnessed a 3-3 draw. The 1891 Coventry Census indicates he was employed as a barman at the Union Arms, 51 Hope Street, Spon End. This public house was the headquarters of Rudge F.C. Thomas Price was the licensee and he was Secretary of the football club. Harry’s wife Emily was Thomas’s daughter. The 1894 Coventry Directory confirms Harry had become the licensee of the Lord Nelson public house, Smithford Street. He acquired the licence on 12 April. In 1901 he resided at 47 Spon Street, Spon End. By now he had left the pub trade and was employed as a watch engineer. The 1911 Coventry Census states he lived at 11 Broad Street, Foleshill.
Harry died aged 58 in Coventry in 1928.
THOMAS CANNING, half back/centre half
67 appearances, 3 goals
He was born on 1 May 1863 at 117 Gosford Street, Hillfields, Coventry. Evidence suggests he first started playing for the Vocalists during the 1887-88 season. His first known appearance for the club was in the home game against Bournville Villa (Birmingham) on 26/11/1887. This was in the Birmingham Junior Cup Second Round. Singers won 4-0. Thomas was a reliable, consistent player who served the club well. The 1891 Coventry Census states he resided at 83 Canterbury Street, Hillfields and was employed as a lithographic printer. Thomas gained Freeman of the City status in 1888 (1895 Coventry Burgess Roll). He played in the Birmingham Junior Cup Final against Willenhall Pickwick F.C. (Staffordshire) at the Perry Barr Ground, Birmingham on 18/4/1891. The Vocalists won 1-0 in front of a crowd estimated at 5,000. The great Frank Mobley scored the goal. This was Thomas’s last appearance for the first team. Between 1891 and 1893 he played a few games for Singers Reserves. The 1901 Coventry Census confirms he was living at 58 Bradford Street, Hillfields.
Thomas died aged 74 in Coventry on 16 August 1937. He was buried at Coventry Cemetery, London Road, three days later. Prior to his death he resided at 100 Bolingbroke Road, Lower Stoke. His last employer was Curtis & Beamish Limited (Printers) who were in existence in the early 1880’s.
WALTER EDMOND, half back
189 appearances, 11 goals
Walter was born in Welshpool, Montgomeryshire, Wales on 22 October 1868. Exactly when he came to Coventry is not known. However, an article in the MDT (3 September 1894) states he had played for Singers since they became a club. This suggests he was playing for the Vocalists aged 14 or 15 (young people left school at aged 14 in those days). Walter was employed as a cycle polisher at the Singer Works. He was an accomplished half back, a consistent player well-known for his efficient tackling. His first known appearance was against Bournville Villa F.C. (Birmingham) on 26/11/1887. This was in the Birmingham Junior Cup Second Round. Singers won 4-0. The 1891 Census confirms he was living with his parents at 31 Alma Street, Hillfields. His fellow teammates voted for him to become captain of the first team prior to the 1894-95 season. This was the first season the Vocalists competed in the Birmingham & District League. His last appearance for the club was in the league away fixture against Halesowen F.C. on 27 April 1895. Singers lost 2-1. In 1898 Walter married Emma Thompson in Coventry. The 1901 Coventry Census states the Edmond family resided at 49 Colchester Street, Hillfields.
Walter died aged 40 at home on 26 February 1909 after suffering from pneumonia for two weeks. He is buried in London Road Cemetery, Coventry.
EDWIN “TEDDY” KIRK, goalkeeper/centre forward/left wing
152 appearances, 1 goal
Edwin was born in Coventry on 6 May 1866. In 1881 he was employed as a watch finisher and lived in Spon End. He was later employed as a commercial clerk/cashier at a builders company. Teddy was an all-round sportsman who excelled at cricket and cycling. He also occasionally played for Singers rugby union team. His first known appearance for the Vocalists was in the home friendly match against Bournville Villa (Birmingham) on 26/11/1887. This was in the Birmingham Junior Cup Second Round. Kirk played on the left wing and Singers won 4-0. He converted to the goalkeeper position in December 1889. His brilliant performances “between the sticks” warrants special mention. He deserves the accolade of him being the first in a long list of outstanding goalkeepers for the club. The 1891 Coventry Census confirms he resided at 99 Vine Street, Hillfields. Teddy was appointed captain of the Craven Cricket Club that same year. He also starred in the legendary “Little Blackbirds” cup team which won four trophies during 1891 and 1892. He was appointed secretary of the Vocalists in December 1893. Kirk came to the club’s rescue during the 1895-96 season. He came out of retirement at a time when the team was experiencing a poor run of results. His last appearance for Singers was in the home league game against Shrewsbury Town F.C. on 7/4/1896. Singers lost 3-1. Teddy was a prominent player for Coventry & North Warwickshire Cricket Club. He also qualified as a football referee and officiated in many local matches. He registered as a player for Rudge F.C. for the 1896-97 season and acted as cover for Elsby, their first choice goalkeeper. In April 1897 he played in three cup finals for Rudge-Whitworth F.C. They are as follows; Birmingham Junior Cup Final on10 April (beat Warwick United F.C. 3-0), Leamington Hospital Cup Final on 17 April (lost 3-1 to Leamington Town F.C.) and Nuneaton Cottage Hospital Cup Final on 24 April (beat Progress F.C. (Coventry) 4-0). The match against Progress F.C. was the last in his football career. Edwin died aged 90 at Coventry & Warwickshire Hospital on 8 April 1957. He is buried in London Road Cemetery, Coventry.
F. or H. HUTT, half back
3 appearances
Possibly the former Coventry Association F.C. player. His first known appearance for Singers was in the home friendly game against Star of Hope F.C. (Small Heath, Birmingham) on 4/2/1888. The Vocalists won 3-0. He made his second appearance seven days later in the friendly match against Small Heath Forwards F.C. (Birmingham). Singers won 4-1 at the Stoke Road Ground. His last game for the club was in the home friendly match against Godiva Rovers F.C. (Coventry) on 18/2/1888. The Vocalists won 11-0.
Note: Hutt (half back) played for Rudge F.C. against Cheylesmore Swifts F.C. (Coventry) (Coventry Times 3/4/1889). Rudge won 2-0.
OLDFIELD, inside forward
1 appearances, 1 goal
His only known appearance for the Vocalists was in the home friendly match against Star of Hope F.C. (Small Heath, Birmingham) on 4/2/1888. He scored a goal in Singers 3-0 victory.
Note: Possibly J. Oldfield who played for Kenneth Rotherham’s XI against Coventry Association F.C. on 20/9/1884. Rotherham’s team was composed of Coventry RFC players and lost 3-0. Harry Banks (Singers F.C.) scored a hat-trick for the Association.
JENNINGS, inside forward
4 appearances, 1 goal
His first known appearance for the club was in the home friendly game against Small Heath Forwards F.C. (Birmingham) on 11/2/1888. The Vocalists won 4-1. He was a member of the Singers team which thrashed Godiva Rovers 11-0 in the home friendly game seven days later. Match reports confirm he played against Nuneaton True Blues F.C., a home friendly game on 3/3/1888 which Singers won 14-0 and Bournville F.C. (Birmingham), away friendly match on 24/3/1888 which the Vocalists won 3-1.
DUGGINS, winger/centre forward
2 appearances
His earliest known game for Singers was in the home friendly fixture against Coleshill F.C. on 12/11/1887. The match ended in a 2-2 draw. His other appearance was in the home friendly match against Godiva Rovers F.C. (Coventry) on 18/2/1888. Singers won 11-0.
Note: Duggins (full back) played for Rudge F.C. (Coventry Standard 4/10/1889).
ROGERS, full back
1 appearance
His only known appearance for the club was in the away friendly game against Bournville F.C. (Birmingham) on 24/3/1888. The Vocalists won 3-1.
HOLLIS, half back
1 appearance
His only known appearance for Singers was in the away friendly match against Bournville F.C. (Birmingham) on 24/3/1888. The Vocalists won 3-1.
FREDERICK “FRED” BUCKINGHAM, half back
16 appearances
He was born in Wolverhampton on 4/4/1867. He previously played for Stafford Road F.C. (Wolverhampton). Fred was a Rudge employee. His first known appearance for Singers was in the home friendly match against Langley Green Victoria F.C. (Oldbury) on 7/4/1888. The Vocalists lost 7-1. He was vice-captain of the team during the 1888-89 season. His last appearance for Singers was in the home friendly match against Gerontes F.C. (Rugby) on 30/3/1889. This game ended in a 4-4 draw. Fred regularly played for Rudge F.C. when that club was inaugurated in 1889. The 1891 Coventry Census indicates he was employed as a bicycle turner and lived at 80 Moor Street, Earlsdon. The 1894 Coventry Directory lists him as being the landlord of the Pilgrim’s Rest pub in Ironmonger Row, city centre. Fred became a qualified referee and officiated locally during the 1896-97 season. He married Jane Cole at Saint Thomas’s Church, Coventry on 4/8/1900. According to the 1901 Coventry Census the Buckingham family lived at 56 Gordon Street, Earlsdon. Fred’s occupation is described as being a “mechanic/fitter/turner”. He became chairman of the Coventry & Warwickshire Football League on 31 July 1901. He resigned this position on 18 August 1903 prior to emigrating (country destination unknown). At some point he returned to England. The 1939 England & Wales Register confirms he was a retired toolmaker residing at 35 Forde Road, Solihull.
Fred died aged 76 in Solihull in 1944. He was buried in Yardley Cemetery, Birmingham.
REEVES, centre forward
1 appearance
His only known appearance for Singers was in the home friendly game against Langley Green Victoria F.C. (Oldbury) on 7/4/1888. The Vocalists lost 7-1.
Note: Possibly L. Reeves (Coventry Association F.C.) who played for that club against Kenneth Rotherham’s XI on 20/9/1884. Harry Banks (Singers F.C.) scored a hat-trick for Coventry Association in their 3-0 victory. Rotherham’s team was composed entirely of players from Coventry RFC.
GEORGE FREEMAN DORRELL, half back/centre forward
34 appearances, 4 goals
He was born in Birmingham on 26 March 1865 and was the elder brother of William Dorrell. George previously played for Small Heath Forwards F.C. (Birmingham) and Small Heath Alliance F.C. (later Birmingham City F.C.). After leaving school he began work at the Birmingham Small Arms Company Limited in the Gun Quarter part of the city. The 1881 Birmingham Census states he was aged 16, employed as a carpenter’s labourer and resided at 55 Wright Street, Aston, with his parents and nine other siblings. When he came to Coventry his initial employment was at the Rudge Factory in Crow Lane, Spon End. He joined the Singer Bicycle Company in 1886. His first known appearance for Singers was in the home friendly game against Mitchell Saint Georges Reserves F.C. (Birmingham) on 6/10/1888. Singers lost 2-1. The 1891 Coventry Census confirms he was a boarder at Ann Gibb’s residence, 21 Adelaide Street, Hillfields. He was employed as a bicycle fitter. George married Mary Ann Dadley at Holy Trinity Church, Coventry on 21/3/1891. The married couple lived at 78 Gilbert Street, Hillfields for over 30 years. His last match for the club was against Aston Villa Reserves F.C. on 26/11/1892. The Vocalists lost 6-2 after having to play with ten men. The 1911 Coventry Census states George was aged 46 and worked as a motor fitter at the Challenge Cycle Works (Singer Company). The 1939 England & Wales Register confirms he had retired and resided with his wife at 13 Rosslyn Avenue, Coundon. George died aged 74 at home on 16/12/1939. His funeral was held at Gosford Street Baptist Church, Coventry four days later.
THOMAS “TOM” SUTHARD, full back/half back/inside forward
9 appearances
He was born in Wolverhampton on 22/11/1866. Tom previously played for Stafford Road F.C.(Wolverhampton). He made his debut for Singers in the home friendly game against Mitchell Saint Georges Reserves F.C. (Birmingham) on 6/10/1888. The Vocalists lost 2-1. His last appearance for the club was in the home friendly game against Gerontes (Rugby) on 30/4/1889. This ended in a 4-4 draw. Tom was employed at the Rudge factory as an iron turner and became a regular player for Rudge F.C. after its formation in 1889. He later joined Progress F.C. (Coventry). He became a qualified referee and officiated in the Singers v Royal Warwickshire Regiment match on 5/1/1889. The Vocalists won 2-1. Tom married Emma Herbert in Coventry in 1890. The 1891 Coventry Census states the couple resided at 8 Clifton Terrace, Foleshill Road, close to the Prince William public house. In 1911 the Suthard’s lived at 24 Crabmill Lane, Edgwick and Tom was employed as a bicycle machinist. The 1921 Coventry Census describes his occupation as being a driller at the Daimler Company, Radford Works.
Tom died aged 79 at Coventry & Warwickshire Hospital on 31/12/1939. He had been knocked down by a tram car near to the Red House Inn situated in Stoney Stanton Road. His death was reported as the 18th fatality in the city under “black out” conditions introduced during the Second World War.
J. WEBSTER, winger
1 appearance
He played in the away friendly game against Hawkes F.C. (Birmingham) on 13/10/1888. The Vocalists won 3-0. He was selected for the Coventry & District League XI for their game against Singers at the Stoke Road Ground on 15/9/1890. At the time he was playing for Foleshill Great Heath F.C. (Coventry). A crowd estimated at 300 saw the Vocalists win 2-0, both goals scored by Thomas Bird.
Note: Joe Webster and Jonathan Webster were members of the Singers Cricket Club (Midland Counties Reporter 3/11/1888).
BROWN, centre half
1 appearance
He played in the home friendly game against Smethwick Britannia F.C. (Birmingham) on 8/12/1888. Singers won 2-0. The match was refereed by George Bowers. The Vocalists were missing Harry Bowkett and Tom Suthard for this game. Brown stepped in at short notice, as did J. Edwards.
Note: Brown (centre half) played for Rudge F.C. against Cheylesmore Swifts F.C. (Coventry) on 30/3/1889.
J. EDWARDS, left wing
1 appearances
He played in the home friendly game against Smethwick Britannia F.C. (Birmingham) on 8/12/1888. The Vocalists won 2-0. Edwards stepped in at short notice, along with Brown, to give Singers a full eleven. They replaced Harry Bowkett and Tom Suthard, who were unavailable.
F. SMITH, right wing
5 appearances, 3 goals
His first known appearance was in the home friendly game against Smethwick Britannia F.C. (Birmingham) on 8/12/1888. The Vocalists won 2-0. He also played against Unity Gas F.C. (Birmingham) two weeks
later. This was a Birmingham Junior Cup Third Round tie. crowd estimated at 1,400 saw Singers win 3-0. On 5/1/1889 the Vocalists met the Royal Warwickshire Regiment F.C. (Coventry) in a friendly match at the Stoke Road Ground. Smith scored both goals in a 2-1 victory. He scored his other goal in the home friendly match against Hawkes F.C. (Birmingham) on 19/1/1889. His last appearance for the club was in the away fixture against Victoria F.C. (Birmingham) on 2/2/1889. This was a Birmingham Junior Cup Fourth Round tie. Singers lost 5-1. Smith also played in Rudge’s first match after the club was formed in 1889, an away friendly against Foleshill Liberal Club F.C. on 23 March. He scored a hat-trick in Rudge’s 10-0 victory.
Note: Possibly Frederick W. Smith, born in Coventry circa 1867. The 1891 Coventry Census confirms he was living at 32 Canterbury Street, Hillfields and was employed as a bicycle machinist.
THOMAS JAMES CASHMORE, full back/forward
Singers F.C. 212 appearances, 23 goals
Coventry City F.C. 2 appearances
Thomas was born in Dublin, Ireland on 23 November 1864. He was employed as a bicycle machinist at the Singer factory and was lodging with Horace Bailey’s family at 62 Lower Ford Street, Hillfields. Bailey also worked at the Singer factory and later served on the football club’s committee. Thomas made his debut in the home friendly game against Hockley F.C. (Birmingham) on 24/11/1888. Singers won 2-0 and he scored a goal. He took over the team captaincy from Joe Collins prior to the start of the 1889-90 season. He married Julia Twitchings in 1891. He initially played as a forward but in later years converted to full back, serving the club with distinction. His last game for Singers was against Worcester Rovers F.C. on 26 February 1898. Approximately 2,500 spectators saw the Vocalists win 1-0. Thomas was one of the true stalwarts of the Singers period. He was appointed secretary of Singers F.C. at the 1895 AGM and worked tirelessly in this capacity. In 1898 he corresponded with Frederick Wall, secretary of the Football Association, regarding the club changing its name from Singers F.C. to Coventry City F.C. The name change officially happened on 12 August 1898 after Cashmore received a letter from Frederick Wall. Thomas often used his own money to pay the club’s bills despite receiving £10 annually from the football club. It became quite clear this was insufficient to cover costs. The £10 allowance was subject to scrutiny and criticism at the 1900 AGM by Thomas Owen, the club’s chairman and Mr. Mitchell, a club member. Cashmore explained the payment only covered incidental costs on a weekly basis.
Incredibly, this explanation was deemed inadequate so he tendered his resignation with immediate effect. Thomas made two appearances for Coventry City F.C. whilst in his mid-30’s. On 22 April 1899 he played at right half in the 3-0 defeat at Hereford Thistle F.C. His other appearance was at left back in the 4-1 defeat at Kidderminster Harriers F.C. on 17 February 1900. The Cashmore family left Coventry soon after this game and moved to Wolverton, Buckinghamshire. Thomas had secured employment as a railway fitter at the London & North Western Railway Company.
He died aged 90 in Newport Pagnall on 7 January 1955.
JACK LEE, full back
2 appearances
He was a famous cyclist and made his debut for the Vocalists in the home friendly game against the Royal Warwickshire Regiment F.C. (Coventry) on 5/1/1889. Singers won 2-1 in front of a crowd estimated at 900. Seven days later he made his last appearance in the home friendly match against Hawkes F.C. (Birmingham). The Vocalists won 5-1.
Note: Lee (full back) played for Rudge F.C. against Cheylesmore Swifts F.C. (Coventry) (Coventry Times 3/4/1889). Rudge won 2-0.
WILL HOWELL, right wing/half back
99 appearances, 12 goals
He was formerly with Unity Gas F.C. (Birmingham). Will made his debut in the home friendly game against Nechells Clifton F.C. (Birmingham) on 9/2/1889. Singers won 6-0 and he scored two goals. Match reports indicate he later played regularly as a half back. He was a member of the Warwick County F.C. (Birmingham) team which played West Bromwich Albion F.C. on Monday 10/11/1890. The game took place at the Warwick County Cricket Ground, Edgbaston. The Albion fielded five reserve players but still registered a 4-0 victory. Warwick County F.C. were formed in 1887 and were affiliated to Warwickshire County Cricket Club. They were founder members of the Midland League two years later. Howell may have been tempted to join County but he remained loyal to the Vocalists. This was a wise move because Warwick were expelled from the Midland League in April 1891, for failing to fulfill a fixture as directed by the Football League. It appears the long throw-in tactic is not a modern day invention. Will was a long throw-in specialist and demonstrated this skill to great effect during Singers home friendly game against Rudge F.C. on 17/10/1891. He took a throw-in about halfway into Rudge’s half and launched the ball beyond the far post. Harry Edwards steadied himself before placing a header past Greaves, the Rudge goalkeeper, to give the Vocalists a 4-2 lead. Singers went on to win that game 5-3. Will’s long throw-in exploits were regularly reported in the local press. His last game for the club was in the testimonial match for Harry Banks on 10/2/1894. Singers beat Hednesford Town 2-1.
WALTER SHAW, centre forward
10 appearances, 7 goals
Walter played for Mitchell Saint George’s F.C. (Birmingham) during the 1887-88 season. He made his debut for the Vocalists in the home friendly game against Gerontes F.C. (Rugby) on 23/2/1889. Singers won 3-0 and he scored a goal. Coventry Standard (15/3/1889): “Walter Shaw (20) of Winchester Street, Hillfields, was treated at the hospital on Saturday for an injury to his hand, caused by machinery at the Singer Works”. George Maley wrote about Shaw (Coventry Reporter Saturday 23/11/1889): “I was present at the (Aston) Villa (Reserves) and Mitchell Saint George’s match on Monday. Walter Shaw, who was playing for Mitchell’s, desired me to remember him to all his Coventry friends, and expressed the hope that Singers would continue in their successful career. I must not forget to say that Walter played an excellent game, his turn of speed being of great service to his side”. Walter played for Rudge F.C. during the 1890-91 season. He then re-joined Mitchell Saint George’s F.C.for the following season. Coventry Times (2/3/1892): “Walter Shaw is in a comfortable position at Saint George’s who cannot afford to play him, and yet the officials do not seem inclined to consent to his transfer to another club”. He had another spell with the Vocalists during the 1894-95 season, playing seven games and scoring five goals. His last game for the club was in the home friendly match against Rudge F.C. on 1/12/1894. Singers lost 2-1.
WILLIAM HENRY CASHMORE, goalkeeper
4 appearances
He was born on 20 February 1861 at 12 Heanage Street, Aston, Birmingham. The 1881 Census states he was aged 20 and a private in the 6th Royal Warwickshire Regiment, based at Budbrooke Barracks, Warwickshire. William married Mary Ann Whitehouse in Coventry at All Saints Church, Hillfields on 10 June 1889. At the time of his marriage he was living in East Street, Hillfields. Effectively he was third choice goalkeeper during the 1888-89 season due to the consistent performances of Teddy Kirk and Andrew Poole. His first known appearance was in the away friendly match against Gerontes F.C. (Rugby) on 16/3/1889. The Vocalists drew 2-2. It appears he was a bit part player and turned out for the club when they were short of a goalkeeper. During the 1890-91 season he played in three friendly matches; 18/10/1890 home against Mitchell Saint George’s Reserves F.C. (Birmingham) which Singers won 5-1, 25/10/1890 away against Leicester Teachers F.C. which Singers won 6-3, and 6/12/1890 home against Gerontes (Rugby) which Singers won 5-2. William played right full back in the Gerontes game. His main role for the club was first team trainer.
On Saturday 29 November 1890, William was a victim n a horrific stabbing incident. This happened at the Trafalgar Arms, Trafalgar Street, Spon End, a well-known pro-Rudge F.C. public house. He went there after watching Rudge’s 0-0 draw with West Bromwich Albion Reserves F.C. He was accompanied by Singers F.C. players Walter Edmond and Samuel Heath, along with two friends. Cashmore was playing cribbage in the Smoke Room. Most people present, including Rudge players and supporters, were talking about the game which had just been witnessed. Around 7.30 pm Albert Edward Kirk and William Lawrenson entered the Smoke Room. Both were members of the Rudge Committee. Lawrenson played at half back for the Crow Laners during the 1889-90 season. The two men sat at a table near Cashmore. Lawrenson made a remark about the pegging of the cribbage game. A few minutes later he made an offensive remark to Cashmore saying “Here is one of the bastard dogs”. Cashmore replied “I am dog good enough for you”. Lawrenson and Cashmore then struck blows and both fell to the floor. Cashmore was on top of Lawrenson and both men had their hands around each other’s neck. Kirk jumped onto Cashmore’s back to help Lawrenson. At this point the pub landlord, Jonathan Ludford, separated the three men. Cashmore turned to Ludford and said “I am stabbed boss”. Kirk had blood on one of his hands and on his coat. Police Constable Goddard arrived at the scene and confiscated Cashmore’s blood-stained jumper. No weapon was found. Cashmore was bleeding profusely and was taken to hospital where he remained for five days. He sustained five stab wounds, notably to the shoulder, right elbow, lower centre of the back, stomach and right hip. Kirk was arrested at his lodgings at 12.30am on Sunday morning (30 November) by P.C. Wright. He tried to escape but failed. Kirk was charged with stabbing at the City Police Court on Monday (1 December) and released on bail for a week, having received sureties of £100. A hearing took place on Monday 8 December where Kirk pleaded not guilty. Eye witness statements for both Kirk and Cashmore were contradictory and there was no clear evidence as to who was responsible for the stabbing.
The magistrates concluded there was insufficient evidence to commit to trial. Lawrenson was discharged unpunished. Local gossip that weekend had spread rumours, implying Singers players Teddy Kirk and Thomas Cashmore had been involved in the incident. Other gossip inferred the violence was a result of fierce football rivalry and the fact a rift existed between the Vocalists and Rudge. All this was incorrect. George Maley decided to investigate the incident and later wrote: “Information gathered by me indicates the bar-room brawl was a result of a dispute relating to family matters”. William recovered from the incident and resumed his duties at the football club. The 1891 Coventry Census states the Cashmore family resided at 50 Vernon Street, Hillfields. William was employed as a bicycle fitter. The family later moved to 53 Coventry Street, Upper Stoke.
William died aged 67 at Gulson Road Hospital, Coventry on 15 November 1927. He was interred at Coventry Cemetery, London Road, six days later.
W. MOWE, half back
3 appearances, 1 goal
His first known appearance was in the away friendly game against Gerontes F.C. (Rugby) on 16/3/1889. The Vocalists drew 2-2. A week later he played at centre-forward in the home friendly match against Victoria F.C. (Birmingham). He scored a goal in Singers’ 6-0 victory. On 13/4/1889 he played at half-back in the home friendly game against Unity Gas F.C. (Birmingham).
Note: 1881 Coventry Census – Possibly William Mowe, aged 17, born in Coventry circa 1864, bicycle maker/fitter, resided in Much Park Street. He was the step-son of Joseph Marwood. William’s mother, Emily Sidwell, married George Mowe in Nuneaton in 1863. George Mowe died in 1871. Emily Mowe married Joseph Marwood in Coventry in 1874.
HARRY HORNSBY, half back
16 appearances, 1 goal
He made his debut in the home friendly match against Smethwick Carriage Works F.C. (Staffordshire) on 5/10/1889. Singers won 2-1 in front of a crowd estimated at 700. He scored his goal in the home friendly game against Hockley F.C. (Birmingham) on 16/11/1889. The Vocalists won 5-0. Harry’s last match for Singers’ first team was at the Coventry Cricket Grounds, Butts on 31/3/1890. This was against Packington F.C. (Warwickshire) in a Birmingham Junior Cup Semi-Final Second Replay. A crowd estimated at 2,000 saw Packington win 2-1. Harry played for Singers Reserves on 8/11/1890 in their game against Coventry Alliance at the Stoke Road Ground. The Alliance lost 4-0. Coventry Times (12/11/1890): “That Harry Hornsby has not yet done with football. That he played a good game against the Alliance on Saturday”. Circumstantial evidence suggests he retired from the game at the end of the 1889-90 season, to concentrate on business affairs. Harry became a Vice President of Singers F.C. at the AGM held at the White Lion Hotel on 31/7/1894.
Note: Public House licence passed from Amelia Cooper to Harry Hornsby (Coventry Herald 2/8/1889). Harry Hornsby, a member of the Licensed Victualer’s Association (Coventry Times 26/11/1890). The 1891 Coventry Census states – Harry Hornsby aged 29 of the Rose & Woodbine public house, 78 Stoney Stanton Road. Ancestry website: Harry Hornsby – born in Leamington Spa on 8/9/1861. Married Rose Annie Tanser on 5/5/1892 at Saint Paul’s Church, Leamington Priors. 1939 England & Wales Register states Harry Hornsby – retired bank clerk residing at 5 Lillington Road, Leamington.
He died aged 86 in Leamington Spa on 27/4/1948.
WILLIAM “BILLY” DORRELL, inside forward/left wing
70 appearances, 48 goals
He was born in Aston, Birmingham on 30 October 1872. His older brother, George Freeman Dorrell, played for the Vocalists between 1888 and 1892. Billy joined the club in 1889 and was employed as a bicycle machinist at the Singer factory. He made his debut at inside left in the home friendly match against Smethwick Carriage Works F.C. (Staffordshire) on 5/10/1889. Singers won 2-1 and he scored a goal in front of a crowd estimated at 700. He was a key member of the famous cup winning teams of 1891 and 1892. Dorell forged a lethal partnership with the legendary Frank Mobley, Singers’ prolific goal-scoring centre forward, who benefitted from his accurate crosses. Billy’s best goalscoring feat was at the Stoke Road Ground on 14/11/1891. The Vocalists played Lozells Villa F.C. (Birmingham) in the 2nd Round of the Walsall Junior Cup. Singers won 11-0 and he scored 6 goals. This included the club’s first penalty, awarded by referee Mr. W. H. Moon (Wednesbury, Staffordshire) under new rules introduced by the Football League. Billy married Clara Amelia Davis, a clerk at the Singer factory, in Coventry on 30/1/1892. His last game for the Vocalists was against Bloxwich Strollers F.C. (Staffordshire) on 20/4/1892. This was a Walsall Junior Cup Final Replay held at the Perry Barr Ground in Birmingham. He scored two goals in Singers’ 3-1 victory. In the summer of 1892 Billy signed for Leicester Fosse F.C. and Mobley joined Small Heath F.C. The loss of the club’s two best players was a massive blow. Dorrell faced his former teammates on 3 September 1892, the opening fixture of the 1892/1893 season. This friendly match was held in Leicester and Dorrell played his part in Fosse’s stunning 10-1 victory. William proceeded to play a leading role in helping his new team win promotion to the Midland League. Billy’s outstanding performances at this level brought him to the attention of First Division Aston Villa F.C., whom he joined in readiness for the 1893-94 season. His transfer fee of £250 was sensational at the time and raised a few eyebrows. However, it proved to be money well spent as Villa were crowned First Division champions in 1894. Billy rejoined the Fosse, now members of the Second Division, in March 1896. He scored 24 goals for them in 63 matches over the next two seasons. An injury forced him to retire from the game in 1899 but he recovered sufficiently enough to sign for Belper Town F.C. He was registered as a player for Burslem Port Vale F.C. for the 1905-06 season but never played for the first team. During World War Two Billy worked in the manufacture of munitions and gun barrels at an engineering company. In 1952 he was an employee of Jones & Shipman Toolmakers, Leicester, working as a machined parts inspector.
William died aged 80 at home, 50 Lancashire Street, Leicester on 14 February 1953. He is buried in Section E at Belgrave Cemetery, Leicester.
JOSEPH “JOE” BRIGGS, inside forward/left wing
38 appearances, 15 goals
He was born in Small Heath, Birmingham in 1869. The 1881 Birmingham Census states he lived at 136 Muntz Street, Aston, with his parents. Joe made his debut in the home friendly game against Lozells Villa F.C. (Birmingham) on 19/10/1889. He scored a goal in Singers’ 3-0 victory. The 1891 Coventry Census confirms he was employed as a bicycle machinist and resided at 69 Winchester Street, Hillfields. He was lodging with the Haywood family. His accommodation at that property is given as 69A. Joe married Emma Maria (maiden name unknown and date unknown). The majority of Joe’s first team appearances were between 1889 and 1893. His last game for the first team was in the away league fixture against Berwick Rangers F.C. (Worcestershire) on 13/4/1895. A crowd estimated at 2,000 witnessed a 1-1 draw. Joe also played 45 games for Singers Reserves. He scored 18 goals and made his last appearance for them during the 1897-98 season. The 1901 Coventry Census confirms he worked as a bicycle machinist, but also operated a drapers business from 69 Winchester Street. The Haywood family had vacated the property by then. No doubt his wife assisted in running the draper’s shop established at the house. In November 1908 Joe became the licensee of the Royal Exchange public house in Castle Street, Coventry. Four years later he left the pub trade after the licence for the Royal Exchange was transferred to John Henry Falconbridge. The 1921 Coventry Census confirms the Briggs family resided at 14 Bolingbroke Road, Lower Stoke. Joe was employed as a motor engine fitter at Humber Limited, Humber Road. He was a member of the Amalgamated Engineering Union and often frequented the Bulls Head Hotel.
Joseph died aged 60 at home on 6/6/1929. He was interred at Coventry Cemetery, London Road four days later.
JACK NEWTON, half back
1 appearance
He played for the Vocalists in the home friendly game against Lozells Villa F.C. (Birmingham) on 26/10/1889. Singers won 2-0. A report in the Coventry Standard (1/11/1889) suggests he had a poor game. Jack left the Vocalists in November 1889 to join Rudge F.C. He was a member of the Rudge Cycling Club and attended the Rudge F.C. AGM, held at the Union Arms public house, Hope Street, Butts on 19/7/1890. He was selected to represent the Coventry & District League XI who played Singers on Monday 15/9/1890. Approximately 300 spectators saw the Vocalists win 2-0, both goals being scored by Thomas Bird. On 12/12/1893 the MDT reported: “J.Newton, a player of Rudge United (Rudge Reserves) was severely censured by Charles Crump, President of the Birmingham & District Football Association, for using improper language towards a referee”. The offence took place during a match against Singers Reserves on 17/12/1892. The Vocalists won that game 4-2.
Note: Newton (Cheylesmore Swifts F.C.) played against Rudge F.C. (Coventry Times 3/4/1889), Newton (inside forward) Rudge F.C. (MDT 8/1/1890) and Jack Newton (half back) Coventry Rovers F.C. (MDT 21/9/1891).
AYRE or AYRISS, centre forward
1 appearance
He played in the home friendly match against Lozells Villa F.C. (Birmingham) on 26/10/1889. Singers won 2-0. A report in the Coventry Standard (1/11/1889) suggests he had a poor game.
WILLIAM J. ‘BILLY’ HUGHES, centre half/half back/centre forward
60 appearances, 13 goals
William played at half back for Small Heath F.C. (Birmingham) in their home fixture against Davenham F.C. (Cheshire) on 23 February 1889. He made his debut for Singers when he played at centre-forward in the home friendly game against Royal Small Arms F.C. (Birmingham) on 11 January 1890. The Vocalists won 8-0 and he scored two goals. Match reports suggest he was a utility player who was good in many positions. He also made several appearances for Singer Reserves. William was elected vice-captain of the first team at the AGM held at the White Lion Hotel, Gosford Green on 24 July 1890. He was a member of the famous “Little Blackbirds” team which won three trophies during the 1891/92 season. His last first team appearance was in the away friendly against Cannock Town F.C. (Staffordshire) on 24 March 1894. The Vocalists were missing Arthur Flavell, their regular goalkeeper, so William volunteered to replace him. Cannock won 4-0. The football correspondent of the Kenilworth Advertiser commented: (31 March 1894) “Everyone knows that Hughes is not a goalkeeper. It seems strange that someone more accustomed to the position could not have been found. Billy Hughes appeared between the sticks. Had Flavell played it is questionable whether they (Cannock) would have scored at all”.
It’s not clear how long William’s football career lasted. It appears he becamea qualified referee and was officiating in local matches during 1894. William was a member of the Singer Reserves team which won the Midland Daily Telegraph Cup in 1894. The Cup Final was played at the Butts Ground, Spon End on Easter Monday 26 March. The game ended in a 2-2 draw. The replay took place at the Red House Ground, Stoney Stanton Road on Saturday 7 April. It was 1-1 after ninety minutes. Singers scored three goals in extra-time to complete a 4-1 victory. William and his team-mates received gold medals at a presentation ceremony held at the Kings Head Hotel on Wednesday 25 April. The medals were presented by William McGregor, founder of the English Football League.
Possibly: WILLIAM JOHN HUGHES born circa 1870 in Hockley, Birmingham.
1891 Birmingham Census: Aged 21, brass founder, boarding at William Faulks residence 69 Grosvenor Street, Ladywood. Married Ellen Withorn at Saint Paul’s Church, Birmingham on 13 December 1891. The couple lived at 17 Holland Street, Ladywood at the time of their wedding.
1901 Birmingham Census: Aged 30, employed at the City Water Works. Resided at 5 Eddington Street, Ladywood.
1911 Birmingham Census: Aged 40, employed as a labourer at the Municipal Water Works. Lived in rear accommodation at a house situated in Edward Street Parade, Ladywood.
1921 Birmingham Census: Aged 50, electro plate assistant employed at Cadby & Sons, Electro Plate Works, Hockley. Resided at 3 Lime Grove, Browning Street, Ladywood.
FRANK MOBLEY, centre forward
Singers F.C. 60 appearances, 68 goals
Coventry City F.C. (1900-01) 22 appearances, 7 goals
Regarded as the best player of the Singers F.C. period and undoubtedly a popular crowd favourite. Frank was born in Handsworth, Birmingham on 21 November 1868. He learned the game by playing in the cobbled streets and on wasteland close to where he lived. His first job was as a labourer at the Smethwick Carriage Works and later played for the company’s football team. He joined the Vocalists in 1890 and lodged at George Allen’s residence, 44 Raglan Street, Hillfields. Frank was employed as a bicycle machinist at the Singer factory. He was a centre-forward with fantastic ability despite being 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 10 stones 8 pounds. He made his debut in the away friendly game against Leicester Fosse F.C. on 13/9/1890. He scored a goal in Singers’ 5-3 defeat. Frank was a prolific goalscorer. His most famous exploit came in the Walsall Junior Cup Third Round home tie against Soho Villa F.C. (Birmingham) on 9/1/1892. He scored 6 goals in Singers’ 12-2 victory. During his time at the club he scored 5 goals on three occasions, 4 goals in one game and 1 hat-trick. His last match for the Vocalists was in the home friendly against Forresters Association F.C. 30/4/1892. Singers won 3-2.
His excellent performances alerted Small Heath F.C. (Birmingham City F.C.), who signed him in the summer of 1892. Mobley had been recommended by former player Harry Edwards, who had recently joined Small Heath. Frank was now playing Second Division football and continued to terrorise opposition defences. Between 1892 and 1894 he scored 40 goals (League & F.A. Cup) which ultimately helped Small Heath win promotion to the First Division. In the summer of 1896 he decided to join Bury F.C., another First Division club, but only stayed there for one season. From 1897 to 1899 he played for Gravesend United F.C., members of the Southern League. Frank’s last game for them was against Swindon Town F.C. on 15 April 1899. He scored a goal in United’s 5-1 victory. Shortly afterwards he retired from football and returned to Birmingham, where he married Harriet Elizabeth Hunt in 1900. The couple had a son, also named Frank. Mobley came out of retirement later that year to help Coventry City F.C., who were second from bottom in the Birmingham & District League. He made his debut aged 31 on 13 October in the 6-2 away defeat against Stoke City Reserves. His last match for City was in the 2-2 draw against Aston Villa Reserves F.C. at Highfield Road on 27/4/1901. Frank hung up his boots for good in 1902 after being injured in a road traffic accident. He was crossing the Stratford Road in Birmingham and was hit by a car.
Frank died aged 87 at his son’s residence in Sparkbrook, Birmingham on 9 February 1956. His grave is situated in the grounds of Yardley Wood Parish Church, Birmingham. The final resting place of a true “football legend”.
THOMAS BIRD, inside forward
200 appearances, 98 goals
He was born in West Smethwick, Staffordshire on 11 April 1868. He joined the club from Smethwick Carriage Works F.C. in the close season of 1890. Thomas was captain of the Smethwick team and had already formed a superb partnership with Mobley, who came to Singers from the same club. That partnership spearheaded the Singers attack to great effect. Like Mobley, Thomas was a regular goalscorer and captained the famous “Little Blackbirds” team which won four trophies during 1891 and 1892. He was employed as an iron turner at the Singer Works. He made his debut in the away friendly game against Leicester Fosse F.C. on 13/9/1890, and scored a goal in Singers’ 5-3 defeat. Thomas married Sarah Ann Hill in Handsworth on 28 March 1891. The 1891 Coventry Census confirms the couple lived at 60 Howard Street, Hillfields. His last appearance for the club was in the home league game against Halesowen F.C. on 20 April 1897. Singers won 4-0. The 1901 Coventry Census lists the Bird family as living at 117 Eagle Street, Hillfields. Thomas had some involvement in the Singer Company Sick & Benevolent Fund introduced in 1910. Money was raised by staging an annual departmental football competition, the Singer Challenge Cup. Thomas spoke about the Fund at the company’s Annual Dinner held at the Crown Hotel, Canterbury Street, Hillfields in May 1911. He said: “I know the fund has been of the greatest benefit to some of the workmen and I am pleased to say that it is in a very good financial position”. The first winners of the Singer Challenge Cup was the Motor Department in 1911. Thomas was a great servant to the football club and to the company, working there for 50 years prior to retirement.
He died aged 71 at his daughters residence, 15 Norman Place Road, Coundon on 6/11/1939. His funeral was held at Coventry Cemetery three days later, after which he was interred in the family grave.
ASHMORE, full back
1 appearance
Formerly with Coventry Rovers F.C. He played for the Vocalists in the home friendly game against the Coventry Junior League XI on 15/9/1890. Singers won 2-0 in front of a crowd estimated at 300. This was his only appearance in the first team. He re-joined Coventry Rovers F.C. in 1891 (MDT 18/4/1891 & 7/9/1891).
SKELDING, full back
5 appearances
He made his first team debut in the home friendly match against Coventry Junior League XI on 15/9/1890. The Vocalists won 2-0 in front of a crowd estimated at 300. His last first team game was in the home friendly against Unity Gas F.C. (Birmingham) on 23/41892. Singers lost 2-1. Skelding made several appearances for Singers Reserves.
Note: A player named Skelding played for Coventry Rovers F.C. (MDT 28/10/1891). Also the 1891 Census lists Robert Skelding, born in Coventry circa 1870, a lodger at George Allen’s residence, 44 Raglan Street, Hillfields. He was employed as a bicycle machinist.
N KENDRICK, half back
3 appearances
He played in the home friendly game against the Coventry Junior League XI on 15/9/1890. Singers won 2-0 watched by a crowd estimated at 300. He also played in the away friendly match against Unity Gas F.C. on 8/11/1890. Singers lost 5-0. His last game for the first team was in the home fixture against Stoke F.C. (Coventry) on 7/11/1891. This was a Birmingham Junior Cup 1st Round tie. The Vocalists won 5-0. According to known match reports he made nine appearances for Singer Reserves at centre-half between October 1890 and January 1892.
His first known appearance for the Reserves was on 4 October 1890 in the away fixture against Leicester Fosse Reserves. The match was played at the Leicester Racecourse and ended in a 0-0 draw. His last game for the Reserves was the away fixture against Leek Wooton F. C. on Saturday 2 January 1892. Prior to the match the local press suggested Leek Wooton had almost arrogantly “thrown the gauntlet down” in challenging the Reserves to play them. This backfired spectacularly. The Reserves thrashed their opponents 22-0 and Kendrick scored one of the goals.
Note: A player named Kendrick played for Packington F.C. (Warwickshire) (MDT4/4/1890).
MARSHALL, inside forward
1 appearance
He played in the home friendly match against the Coventry Junior League XI on 15/9/1890. Singers won 2-0. The attendance was estimated at 300.
THOMAS, inside forward
1 appearance
He played in the home friendly game against the Coventry Junior League XI on 15/9/1890. Singers won 2-0. The attendance was estimated at 300. He joined Coventry Rovers F.C. prior to the commencement of the 1891-92 season (MDT 7/9/1891).
CHARLES PRETTY, right wing/inside forward
25 appearances, 17 goals
He was born at Easmoor Farm, Redditch on 29 June 1869. His father, Richard Pretty, was a farmer. During 1887 and 1888 Charles played several games against the Vocalists for Small Heath Forwards F.C. (Birmingham), Small Heath Unity F.C. (Birmingham) and Unity Gas F.C. (Birmingham). His first appearance for Singers was in the home friendly match against Atherstone Association F.C. on 27/9/1890. Singers won 13-0 and he scored a “hat-trick”. The 1891 Coventry Census states he was a boarder at 29 Winchester Street, Hillfields, the residence of Richard Lewis. Charles was employed as a bicycle fitter. The 1895 Coventry Burgess Roll confirms he was living at 31 Nelson Street, Hillfields. His last game for the Vocalists was in the home friendly against Hednesford Town F.C. on 8 October 1892. Singers won 3-2. The 1901 Birmingham Census lists him as living at 87 Jenkins Street, Small Heath. He was employed as a foreman/bicycle frame fitter. By 1911 he had returned to Redditch and lived in Glover Street.
Charles died aged 71 at 1 Sutton Road, Kidderminster on 23 February 1941.
This was the residence of Alfred J. Burton, who was secretary of Small Heath Unity F.C. in October 1888. Note: Pretty (inside forward) played for Rudge F.C. (MDT 2/9/1892).
J. GLEW, full back/half back
21 appearances
He made his debut in the home friendly game against West Bromwich Albion Reserves F.C. on 4/10/1890. Singers drew 1-1. He played for the Vocalists in the Birmingham Junior Cup Final on 18 April 1891. The game was held at the Perry Barr Ground, Birmingham and attracted a crowd estimated at 5,000. Singers beat Willenhall Pickwick 1-0 with a goal by Frank Mobley. Glew’s last appearance for the club was in the away friendly match against Worcester Rovers F.C. on 2/4/1892. Singers won 2-0.
RUSSELL, goalkeeper
1 appearance
He played in the away friendly match against Headingley F.C. (Birmingham) on 11/10/1890. Singers won 4-2.
ASBURY, half back
1 appearance
He played in the away friendly game against Unity Gas F.C. (Birmingham) on 8/11/1890. The Vocalists lost 5-0.
Note: A. Asbury (full back/half back) played for Unity Villa F.C. (Coventry) (MDT 27/10/1893) and Progress F.C. (Coventry) (MDT 10/2/1899). Also Albert Asbury, 21 Paradise Street, Coventry (Coventry Herald 30/12/1892).
CRUMP, half back
1 appearance
He was signed from Langley Green Victoria F.C. and played in the home friendly match against Leicester Teachers F.C. on 15/11/1890. He scored a goal in Singers’ 8-0 victory.
Note: Crump (half back) Rudge F.C. (MDT 1/4/1893).
HUGH THOMAS GREGORY, half back
2 appearances
Hugh was born in Lichfield, Staffordshire on 13/11/1869. He previously played for Coventry Rovers F.C. His first appearance for the club was for Singers Reserves in their away friendly game against Coventry Ragged School F.C. on 13/12/1890. The Reserves won 2-1. Hugh made his first team debut in the home friendly game against Victoria Villa F.C. (Birmingham) on 17/1/1891. This was the first time the two teams had met. Singers won 7-0. His last appearance for the first team was in the 1-1 draw against Lozells Villa F.C. (Birmingham) at Stoke Road Ground on 31/1/1891. The 1891 Coventry Census confirms he was living at 32 Weston Street, Hillfields. He was employed as a bicycle fitter. Hugh became the licensee of the Board Vaults public house in Smithford Street, in July 1892. He played for Singers Reserves on 19 November 1892 in their away match against Budbrooke F.C., a team formed from soldiers of the Royal Warwickshire Regiment based at Budbrooke Barracks. The game took place at Emscote, in a field situated on the left hand side of the road, between Avon Bridge and the Canal bridge. Budbrooke won 3-0. This was their first victory over the Coventry team and it generated huge celebrations in local pubs. Later that night news emerged of a brutal murder, alledgedly perpetrated by soldiers based at the Budbrooke Barracks. James Russell (32), a labourer who resided in Saltisford, was attacked in Priory Lane near to the Woodman Inn. P. C. Hawkins, Sergeant Webb and Inspector Hall took Russell on a stretcher to the police station, approximately 100 yards away. Dr. Guthrie Rankin examined Russell and determined his skull had been smashed in, his left eye nearly knocked out and both cheeks were cut badly. Russell’s face was battered beyond recognition. He died at 1.10am on Sunday morning. His wife, Harriett, made a positive identification later that day. She was now a widow with six children.
Two soldiers were suspects regarding the attack, these being private James Welch and private Frederick Thomas King. Welch had played at left full back for Budbrooke F.C. in the match against Singers. On the Monday morning (21 November) a telephone enquiry was received at the Singer Works from Warwick Police. They wanted to know if any of the Singers players who played against Budbrooke F.C. had been stabbed or injured. The answer was “no”. Hugh was interviewed by a MDT reporter that day. He confirmed the majority of the Singers players had caught the 6.38pm train to Coventry from Milverton Station. He also confirmed the remaining players caught the last train to Coventry at 9.04pm. Hugh had spoken to James Welch about 30 minutes after the game had finished.
This was at the Emscote Tavern, where both teams used separate rooms to change into their football kit. Welch was sober then but later on gallons of beer and glasses of rum was consumed by the victorious Budbrooke players at the Emscote Tavern. They became noisy and troublesome. King and Welch, accompanied by several women, consumed more drink at the Lord Nelson Inn, Emscote. Russell was in this pub also and heard offensive remarks made by a soldier to his sister Edith, who was a barmaid there. The soldier’s name was Roadenight and he played at centre-forward for Budbrooke F.C. that day. Roadenight offered to fight Russell outside but nothing happened. Russell left at 8.30pm and went to the Avon Tavern in nearby Pickard Street. King and Welch consumed more drink at the nearby Malt Shovel Inn, West Street, having arrived there about 9.40pm. Welch was clearly out of control and struck two civilians whilst in the pub. P.C. Buckley, who knew Welch and King well, stated the two soldiers left the Malt Shovel Inn about 10.15pm, accompanied by three women. This was roughly the same time as Russell departed the Avon Tavern. The movements of Welch and King become more blurred up to the point when Russell was attacked. This was around 10.45pm in Priory Road. The police believed Welch and King met Russell in Priory Road, hit him with their belts and kicked him in the head. Welch was arrested around 11.30pm on Saturday night and King about an hour later, both at Budbrooke Barracks by Inspector Hall.
The case was heard at Warwick Magistrates Court on 21 November. Welch and King were placed on remand and the case adjourned. A Coroner’s Inquest was held at Warwick Police Station the following day. It was stated King’s overcoat had two large red patches on it. His belt had been cleaned but bore two dark patches. His trousers had been cleaned but his right boot bore a bright stain around the toe and sole. Welch’s coat and trousers were dirty but there was no sign of any stains. Inspector Hall was not able to get any of the clothing items analysed to prove the stains were human blood. The Inquest continued on Friday 25 November at Warwick Court House. After reviewing all the evidence the Jury took 25 minutes to consider their verdict. The Foreman announced a guilty verdict of “wilful murder”. The magistrates convened again on 30 November to review all the evidence. King and Welch were committed for trial as requested by the Coroner’s Warrant. The trial was held on 12/12/1892 at Warwick Assizes. The charge of wilful murder was set aside by the Judge and Jury, citing the police investigation was incomplete. There was concerns about an unsafe verdict bearing in mind Welch and King potentially faced execution if found guilty. The evidence presented did not prove Welch and King actually met Russell in Priory Road. The Judge discharged the prisoners who remained under police supervision. Welch and King walked away free men. Nine days later they were transferred to Aldershot Barracks, along with their regiment. Russell’s murderer was never identified.
Hugh was licensee of the Board Vaults Inn when he married Hannah Cleverley in Coventry in 1893. In April that year he relinquished the licence of the Board Vaults pub to Charles Henry Wells. In 1911 the Gregory’s lived at 79 Caludon Road, Wyken. Hugh was employed as a mechanic. The 1921 Coventry Census states he worked as a motor-car fitter at the Humber Works and resided at 22 Grantham Street, Hillfields.
Hugh died aged 79 in Coventry in 1949.
BENWELL, goalkeeper
5 appearances
He previously played for Kings Heath Albion F.C. (Birmingham) (MDT 16/3/1891). He made his debut for Singers in the home friendly game against Lozells F.C. (Birmingham) on 21/3/1891. Singers won 2-0. MDT 23/3/1891: “To Benwell is due unstinted praise, his custodianship (goalkeeping) delighted everyone, the Lozells players of course excepted, and Singers may consider themselves fortunate in the possession of so able a second goalkeeper. Benwell’s usefulness is not likely to be confined to that of stick minder, having played in every position on the field”. He played in goal for the Vocalists in the away friendly fixture against Aston Villa Reserves F.C. on 19/9/1891. A crowd estimated at 2,000 saw Villa win 4-0. His performance that day alerted Villa who signed him during the 1891-92 season. His last appearance for Singers was in the away friendly against Leicester Fosse F.C. on 26/9/1891. Approximately 1,500 spectators saw Fosse win 4-1. Benwell played against the Vocalists for Aston Villa Reserves F.C. at Stoke Road Ground on 9/4/1892. A crowd estimated at 3,000 saw Villa win 4-2. This was the first defeat in seven months for Singers.
Note: Benwell (goalkeeper) for Berwick Rangers F.C. (Worcestershire) versus Singers (MDT 12/12/1896). This game ended in a 0-0 draw.
CHARLES EDWIN SHELDON, right back
33 appearances, 4 goals
Charles was born in Walsall on 23 February 1869. He was regularly referred to as “Edwin” due to the fact his father was also named Charles Edwin. Edwin joined Walsall Swifts F.C. in 1884. Two years later he joined Smethwick Carriage Works F.C. (Staffordshire) and played for them until signing for Singer F.C. in August 1891. He made his debut in the home friendly game against his former club on 12 September.Singers won 4-0 in front of a crowd estimated at 1,000. He was a member of the famous “Little Blackbirds” team which won three trophies during the 1891/1892 season. They were dubbed the “Little Blackbirds” due to the team’s black kit and the fact they fielded several diminutive players.
His last match for the Vocalists was against Unity Gas F.C. (Birmingham) on 23 April 1892. Singers lost 2-1. Edwin left the club in the summer of 1892 having turned professional by signing for West Bromwich Albion F.C. He married Agnes Teresa Mills in Walsall on 7 October 1895. It appears he ended his football career at an early age. He probably concentrated on helping the family business, Sheldon & Mills of Darwall Street, which was part of Walsall’s burgeoning leather manufacturing sector. Extract from an advert in 1899: “Sheldon & Mills – Tanners, Curriers, Japanners & Enamellers. Manufacturers of every description of Leather suitable for the Coach, Saddles, Bridle and Harness Trades. Japanned and Enamelled Leather In All Colours. Branches in London and Paris”. The business became Sheldon & Sons Limited in March 1901.
Edwin served in the British Army in South Africa during the Boer War (1901-1903). Having returned home he and his family emigrated to Canada. They sailed on 27 February 1904 to Halifax, Nova Scotia and eventually settled in the MacGregor area of Manitoba, west of Winnipeg. Edwin was employed as a harness maker and bridle cutter. In November 1920 the Sheldon family moved to America, residing in Tampa, Florida. Edwin became a naturalised US Citizen on 11 October 1927. At the time he was employed as a fruit grower. In 1930 he was the proprietor of a gas (petrol) filling station. His son, Raymond Sheldon (born in 1907), was a Senator for the State of Florida between 1943 and 1949. Edwin died aged 93 on 29 December 1962. He is buried in the Garden of Memories Cemetery, Tampa.
OWEN, full back
1 appearance
He played in the charity match against Forresters Association F.C. at the Stoke Road Ground on 30/4/1892. Singers won 3-2.
HENRY ROBY “HARRY” EDWARDS, inside forward
35 appearances, 9 goals
Harry was born in Birmingham on 26/9/1872. He made his debut in the home friendly match against Smethwick Carriage Works F.C. (Staffordshire) on 12/9/1891. The Vocalists won 4-0 in front of approximately 1,000 spectators. He was a member of the famous Singers team which won the Birmingham Junior Cup on 19/3/1892. They defeated Willenhall Pickwick F.C. (Staffordshire) 2-0 and Harry scored the second goal. His last game for the club was in the charity match against Forresters Association F.C. at the Stoke Road Ground on 30/4/1892. Singers won 3-2. Edwards played for several clubs after leaving the Vocalists – Small Heath F.C. (1892/1893), Ryton Rovers F.C. (1893), Leicester Fosse F.C. (1893/1894), Derby County F.C. (1894/1895) and Wolverton F.C. (Buckinghamshire) (1895-1898). Harry was in the Wolverton team which fought out a 1-1 draw in their home friendly game against the Vocalists on 2/9/1896. He also played for Watford F.C. (1898-1900). His last known club was Bedford Queens Works F.C. (1900-1903) for whom he played centre half and was captain. After retiring from football he worked as a steam engine fitter. Harry died aged 68 in Bedford on 3/10/1940.
HENRY “HARRY” CHARLES BODLEY, centre forward/left wing
Singers F.C. (September 1891 to January 1894) 65 appearances, 46 goals
Coventry City F.C. 1 appearance
He was born in Ladywood, Birmingham circa 1867. The 1891 Birmingham Census states he was aged 23, employed as a teacher and living in Fox Street, Yardley. Harry made his debut in the home friendly game against Smethwick Carriage Works F.C. (Staffordshire) on 12/9/1891. He scored a goal in Singers’ 4-0 victory in front of a crowd estimated at 1,000. His last match for the Vocalists was in the home friendly against Rudge F.C. on 13/1/1894. A crowd of approximately 2,000 spectators saw Singers win 3-2. A match report in the
Leamington Spa Courier (Saturday 30/10/1897) confirms he was playing centre-forward for Leamington Town F. C., in their away fixture against Banbury Britannia F.C. Here is an extract: “Before time was called two more goals were added for Leamington by H.C. Bodley. The game ended with Leamington four goals, Banbury one”. Also in the Leamington team that day was F. Bodley, who played inside right. Harry had two brothers, notably Frank Ernest Bodley (aged 21 in 1897) and Frederick Edwin Bodley (aged 19 in 1897). Coventry City’s first match under their new title was an away league game against Wellington Town F.C. (Shropshire) on 3/9/1898. City lost 5-0. In their team that day were Bodley junior (half back) and Bodley senior (centre-forward). Bodley senior is most likely Harry Bodley and Bodley junior could be either of his younger brothers. Harry married Edith Irvine on 29/7/1899 at Holy Trinity Church, Bordesley, Birmingham. The 1901 Birmingham Census confirms the couple resided in Oakwood Road, Sparkhill. They later moved to 22 Southam Road, Hall Green, Birmingham.
Harry died (aged circa 66) on 10 May 1933, whilst playing golf at the Robin Hood Golf Centre, Olton, Warwickshire.
FRANK ERNEST BODLEY
He was born in Birmingham on 24/12/1875. He married Frances Brown in Coventry in 1901. Frank, a carpenter, emigrated to Canada in 1902. He sailed to Quebec on 30 October with the final destination being Montreal. Frances made the trip at a later date. The 1911 Canada Census states he was employed as a chief clerk and resided at 2579 Waverley, Montreal.
Frank died aged 64 in Saint John County, New Brunswick on 3/11/1940. Frances Bodley died aged circa 66 in 1945. Both are buried in the family grave in Greenwood Cemetery.
FREDERICK EDWIN BODLEY
He was born in Birmingham on 22/6/1877. Frederick married Rosina Busby in Aston, Birmingham in 1900. The 1901 Birmingham Census states the couple lived with his parents in College Road, Yardley. He was aged 22 and employed as a polisher. Frederick emigrated to Halifax, Canada in 1907. Rosina sailed to Canada at a later date. She died aged 34 on 10/5/1912 in Winnipeg. Frederick married Christina Hughina McLeod in Winnipeg on 13/7/1913. According to the 1916 Canada Census the couple lived at 347 Parkview Street, Manitoba. Frederick died aged 64 in Chicago, Illinois, USA on 11/6/1942.
MULLINS, full back
1 appearance
He played in the home friendly game against Victoria F.C. (Birmingham) on 3/10/1891. Singers won 4-1. This was his only appearance for the first team. He played at least seven games for Singers Reserves between 1890 and 1893. He later played for Rudge F.C. (MDT 16/1/1893), Stoke F.C. (Coventry) (1893/1894) and Progress F.C. (Coventry) (1897).
Note: Possibly Thomas Mullins, aged 26, bicycle polisher, born in Birmingham circa 1864 and lived at 4 Vauxhall Terrace, East Street, Hillfields (1891 Coventry Census).
JACK LAW, centre forward/left wing
30 appearances, 9 goals
MDT 31/8/1891: “Two new forwards have joined the club, Law of Brierley Hill (Alliance F.C.) and Gallier”. Jack made his debut in the home friendly match against Packington F.C. (Warwickshire) on 19/12/1891. He scored the second goal in Singers’ 5-1 victory. He made one other appearance during the 1891-92 season. This was in the home friendly game against Burton Alma F.C. (Derbyshire) on 30/1/1892. Singers won 3-1. Jack was the subject of disciplinary action by the Birmingham & District Football Association Council Sub-Committee, which met at the Grand Hotel, Birmingham on 16/12/1891. He, along with Chambers and Holden of Rudge F.C., took part in a six-a-side contest at West Bromwich during the close season of 1891, without permission from the B&DFA. All three players were suspended for a week commencing Monday 21/12/1891. His last appearance for the first team was in the home friendly against Oldbury Town F.C. (Staffordshire) on 20/1/1894. This game ended in a 1-1 draw. Jack made several appearances for Singers Reserves during his career. He was a member of the Singers Reserve XI which thrashed Leek Wootton F.C. (Warwickshire) in December 1890. This was an away fixture which the Reserves won 22-0 and Jack scored 6 goals. The defeat would have been more embarrassing if the referee had not disallowed six goals scored by the Vocalists!
Note: MDT 28/10/1895 – “The Committee of Hinckley Town association club are said to have secured the services of Jack Law, who played last season for Singers”.
Also note: JOHN LAW: Details unknown. Possibly joined Singers in August 1897.
H. BROCKLEBANK, half back
1 appearance
He previously played for Alliance F.C. (Coventry). Brocklebank played in the home friendly match against Burton Alma F.C. (Derbyshire) on 30/1/1892. Singers won 3-1. Between 1892 and 1893 he made 21 appearances for Singers Reserves and scored 2 goals.
Note: The 1891 Coventry Census lists Henry H. Brocklebank, born in Coventry, aged 19, watchmaker, living at 14 Byron Street, Hillfields.
Also note: Brocklebank (full back) played for Rudge F.C. (MDT 11/11/1893).
HOWARD GALLIER, inside forward/winger
5 appearances
Howard was born in Birmingham circa 1872. The 1891 Census states he was employed as a bicycle machinist and lodged with the Gardener family at 11 New Street, near Priory Row, city centre. He made his debut in the home friendly match against Burton Alma F.C. (Derbyshire) on 30/1/1892. The Vocalists won 3-1. His last appearance in the first team was in the away league match against Oldbury Town F.C. (Staffordshire) on 22/9/1894. Singers lost 4-2. Between 1891 and 1893 he played 24 games for Singers Reserves and scored 17 goals.
Note: Gallier (right wing) played for Stoke F.C. (Coventry) (MDT 10/11/1893).
MATT SUMMERFIELD, centre half
1 appearance
Matt played for Unity Gas F.C. (Birmingham) against Singers at Stoke Road Ground on 13 April 1889. Unity won 2-0. His only first team appearance for the Vocalists was in the home friendly game against Leicester Fosse F.C. on 20/2/1892. Singers won 3-1 in front of approximately 2,000 spectators.
BATES, centre half
1 appearance.
He played in the home friendly game against Unity Gas F.C. (Birmingham) on 23/4/1892. Unity won 2-1. Possibly James Bates, a playing member of Rudge F.C.
HENRY “HARRY” HANDS, half back/right wing
1 appearance
Harry was born in Leamington circa 1867. He played for Rudge F.C. and at some point in his career for Small Heath Forwards F.C. (Birmingham). The 1891 Census confirms he was employed as a bicycle fitter and resided at 51 Earlsdon Lane, Earlsdon Terrace. His only first team game for Singers was in the home friendly match
against Unity Gas F.C. (Birmingham) on 23/4/1892. Unity won 2-1. The Vocalists were missing four players due to injury so Harry stepped in to help out. He was vice captain of the Rudge F.C. (1891-92) and was appointed captain (1893-94). He later boarded with Ernest Oxborrow’s family and married Edith Kennell at Saint Peter’s Church, Hillfields on Christmas Day 1896. Oxborrow was a famous bicycle rider and a member of the Rudge Cycling Club. He competed in several world title races. Oxborrow played one game for Singers Reserves at centre forward during the 1888-89 season.
SAM CASEY, goalkeeper
10 appearances
Sam was born in Coventry circa 1868. He commenced his football career with Small Heath Forwards F.C. (Birmingham) (1887/1888). He was captain of Cheylesmore Swifts F.C. (Coventry) (1888-89). He then joined Small Heath Unity F.C. (Birmingham) (1889-90). He played for Rudge F.C. (Coventry) (1890-91). The 1891 Coventry Census states he was a bicycle machinist lodging with the Bloxham family at 57 Trafalgar Street, Spon End. Sam made his debut for Singers in the away friendly game against Leicester Fosse F.C. on 3/9/1892. Fosse won 10-1 in front of a crowd estimated at 3,000. An article in the MDT (20/9/1894) confirms he was a member of the Rudge Cycling Club. Sam’s last game for the Vocalists was in the F. A. Cup 1st Qualifying Round home tie against Redditch Town F.C. on 14/10/1893. Redditch won 4-1. In 1895 he was living at 26 Colchester Street, Hillfields. He later became a qualified referee and officiated in the local area. Sam also served on the Executive Committee of the Midland Daily Telegraph Cup Competition for several years. He was also Chairman of the Black Gift Old Boys Association and a Deacon of Well Street Congregational Church. Sam was employed for many years at the Armstrong-Whitworth Aerodrome facility at Whitley. He was associated with Dunlop Athletic F.C. (Coventry) during the 1911-12 season.
Sam died aged 62 at Coventry & Warwickshire Hospital on 13/8/1931. His funeral was held at Well Street Congregational Church four days later, followed by interment at Coventry Cemetery. At the time of his death he was living at 5 Grantham Street, Hillfields.
HANCOX, full back
1 appearance
His only first team appearance for Singers was in the away friendly game against Leicester Fosse F.C. on 3/9/1892. The Fosse won 10-1 in front of approximately 3,000 spectators.
Note: Hancox (half back) played for Stoke Albions F.C. (Coventry) (MDT 28/9/1891), Hancox (full back) played for Townend F.C. (Coventry) (MDT 29/12/1893), Hancox (centre half) played for All Saints F.C. (Coventry) (MDT 28/11/1894). T. Hancox (half back) played for Hillfield Wanderers F.C. (Coventry) (MDT 13/9/1895).
JOHN “JACK” EDWARDS, inside forward/left wing
2 appearances
He was the brother of former Singers player Harry Edwards. John made his debut for the Vocalists in the home friendly match against Smethwick Britannia F.C. (Birmingham) on 8/12/1888. Harry Bowkett and Tom Suthard were unavailable for this game so Edwards, along with Brown, were brought into the team as last minute replacements. His other game was against Leicester Fosse F.C. on 3/9/1892. The Fosse won 10-1 in front of approximately 3,000 spectators. Jack was due to play for the club in the home friendly match against Southfield (Birmingham) on 3/12/1892 but failed to turn up (MDT 5/12/1892).
HARRY TAYLOR, winger/inside forward/centre forward)
Singers F.C. 95 appearances, 25 goasl
Coventry City F.C. 24 appearances, 5 goals
He previously played for Stoke F.C. (Coventry) and Foleshill Saint Lawrence F.C. (Coventry). Harry made his debut in the away friendly game against Leicester Fosse F.C. on 3/9/1892. Fosse won 10-1 and he scored Singers’ goal in front of approximately 3,000 spectators. During the 1897-98 season he scored 11 goals in 31 appearances. His last match under the Singers name was in the home friendly against Foleshill Great Heath on 30/4/1898. The Vocalists won 3-0. Harry played at inside right for Coventry City F.C. in their 5-0 league defeat at Wellington Town F.C. on 3/9/1898. This was the first game under the club’s new name. His last appearance for City was in the away league match against Hereford Thistle on 22/4/1899. Coventry lost 3-1. Harry later played for Foleshill Great Heath F.C. (Coventry) and joined Leamington Town F.C. in January 1900.
ELT/TURNER, full back
3 appearances
He made his debut in the home friendly game against Unity Gas F.C. (Birmingham) on 10/9/1892. He scored a goal in Singers’ 7-2 victory. Elt is a Saxon surname which originates in Staffordshire. Two days after the match the MDT 12/9/1892 stated: “Elt (Turner of Rugby) began at left back, but his kicking being too weak for that position, was brought among the halves, where he played a sterling game”. “Turner of Rugby” might be J. Turner who played rugby union for Rugby Loco United F.C. It remains a mystery as to why he played under the surname Elt.
A. SIMMS, centre half
37 appearances, 6 goals
He made his debut in the home friendly game against Unity Gas F.C. (Birmingham) on 10/9/1892. Singers won 7-2. It appears he was a goalscoring centre-half to some extent. His first goal for the club was in the home friendly game against Aston Villa Reserves F.C. on 26/11/1892. Singers fielded ten players and Villa won 6-1. His last scoring feat was in the home friendly game against Walsall Town Unity F.C. on 18/2/1893. He scored two goals in Singers’ 12-2 victory. His last match for the club was in the away friendly against Rudge F.C. on 21/10/1893 at the Red House Ground, Stoney Stanton Road. Rudge won 3-1.
Note: The 1891 Coventry Census lists Arthur Simms, born in Coventry circa 1868, aged 22, employed as a tin plate worker and lived at 6 Russell Street, Hillfields.
JOHN THOMAS “JACK” RICKUS, inside forward
22 appearances, 7 goals
John was born in Bilston, Staffordshire circa 1875. He previously played for Rudge F.C. He made his debut for the Vocalists in the home friendly match against Unity Gas F.C. (Birmingham) on 10/9/1892. He scored a goal in Singers’ 7-2 victory. Referring to Singers’ 6-0 win against Wolverhampton Saint Andrews F.C. on 17/9/1892, the MDT (19/9/1892) commented: “Rickus played a clever, busy and highly effective game and has already become installed as a prime favourite with the crowd”. John married Emily Mary Batchelor at Saint Peter’s Church, Hillfields on 24/6/1893. At that time he was employed as an “iron fitter” residing at 43B Raglan Street, Hillfields. According to the 1891 Coventry Census, Emily lived at 2 Lillian Terrace, Cox Street and her family had George Arthur Maley, the famous football correspondent, as a lodger. John’s last appearance for the club was in the away friendly game against Leicester Fosse Rovers F.C. on 3/3/1894. A crowd estimated at 4,000 witnessed a 0-0 draw. Emily Rickus died aged 33 in December 1896 in Strood, Kent. John married Beatrice Jane Sherwood in 1899 in Maidstone, Kent. The couple lived at 4 Priory Road. In 1911 the Rickus family resided at 25 Hayday Road, Plaistow. John worked as a wood sawyer at Burroughes & Watts Limited, a company which specialised in the manufacture of billiard tables and related accessories. He served in the First World War having enlisted on 24/2/1915. He joined the Royal Engineers Corps and gave his address as 15 Abbott Road, Poplar, London. John was a Sapper (Regimental number 34465). A Sapper was a combat engineer who was deployed to construct fortifications, build bridges, repair roads and lay/clear mines, for example. He saw active service in France during 1915-1916 as part of the British Expeditionary Force. He came back to England on leave between 13/12/1916 and 22/12/1916. After returning to France he became a casualty of war on 12 June 1918, when the Royal Engineers were in action at Chateau-Thierry, a town near the Marne River. He sailed back to England on 3 February 1919 and was demobillised on 13 March. The 1921 London Census confirms he lived at 5 Glamis Road, Shadwell. He was employed as a wood machinist at W. W. Howard Brothers Limited, Timber Merchants, who were based in Poplar.
John died aged 72 in Stepney, London in 1947.
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W. CULM, full back/inside forward/centre forward/winger
18 appearances, 7 goals
He made his debut at left back in the home friendly game against Wolverhampton Saint Andrews F.C. on 17/9/1892. Singers won 6-0. It appears he was a utility player who could play in several positions. He scored two goals playing for Singers First XI in their 3-1 victory against Singers Second XI on 7/1/1893. His best goal scoring feat was in the away friendly game against Rugby Alexandra F.C. on 4/2/1893. The Vocalists won 9-0 and he scored four goals. According to available match reports his last appearance for the club was in the home friendly game against Rudge F.C. on 25/2/1893. Rudge won 3-2. He later played for Rudge F.C. (MDT 13/4/1894) and Progress F.C. (Coventry) (MDT 6/11/1896).
INGRAM, centre forward
2 appearances
He made his debut in the away friendly game against Aston Villa Reserves on 24/9/1892. Villa won 4-0 in front of a crowd estimated at 4,000. His other appearance was in the home friendly match against Hednesford Town F.C. on 8/10/1892. Singers won 3-2.
Note: C. Ingram played for Unity Villa F.C. (Coventry) (MDT 25/4/1894).
BROOKS, left wing
1 appearances
He played in the away friendly match against Aston Villa Reserves on 24/9/1892. Villa won 4-0 in front of approximately 4,000 spectators.
ERNEST YARDLEY, left wing
2 appearances
He made his debut in the away friendly game against Worcester Rovers F.C. on 1/10/1892. This match ended in a 0-0 draw. He played for Singers Reserves in their home match against Gerontes F.C. (Rugby) on 15/10/1892. Ernest signed for Hinckley Town F.C. in the close season of 1893 (MDT 19/8/1893). He re-joined the Vocalists in the summer of 1894 (MDT 23/8/1894). He played in the home league game against Smethwick Carriage Works F.C. (Staffordshire) on 6/10/1894. The Vocalists lost 3-2.
Note: Yardley (left wing) played for Stoke F.C. (Coventry) in 1892 (MDT 25/1/1892 & 12/9/1892).
Also note: E. Yardley was transferred from Foleshill Saint Lawrence F.C. (Coventry) to Progress F.C. (Coventry) in the close season of 1898. The 1891 Coventry Census – Ernest Yardley, born in Coventry circa 1871, aged 19, employed as a bicycle wheel maker and lived at 3 Little South South Street, Hillfields. According to the 1895 Coventry Burgess Roll, he resided at 21 Aylesford Street, Hillfields, virtually opposite the Lord Aylesford Inn, where Singers Football Club was formed on 13 August 1883.
C. PERRY, inside forward
4 appearances, 3 goals
He made his debut in the home friendly game against Stourbridge F.C. on 5/11/1892. Singers lost 4-1. Perry scored Singers’ goal from the penalty spot. His last first team appearance was in the home friendly against Crewe Britannia F.C. on 29/4/1893. He scored a goal in Singers’ 7-1 victory. He also scored 2 goals in 18 appearances for Singers Reserves during the 1892/1893 season.
Note (MDT 7/9/1891): “Rovers F.C. (Coventry) have their pitch located in a field in Quinton Road, Cheylesmore. The club is headquartered at the George Inn, Little Park Street. New players enlisted (for the 1891/1892 season) include Perry (inside forward), formerly with Unity F.C. (Coventry) and Unity Villa (Coventry). Also note (MDT 2/9/1893): Perry later joined Hinckley Town F.C. but moved back to Singers in readiness for the 1893-94 season. The 1891 Coventry Census – Charles Perry aged 19, born in Birmingham circa 1871, employed as a bicycle fitter, a boarder at James Hartshorn’s residence, 17 Colchester Street, Hillfields.
A. TOMLINSON, inside forward/left back
3 appearances
He made his debut in the away friendly game against Lozells F.C. (Birmingham) on 12/11/1892. The Vocalists won 2-1. His other two matches were at left back (home against Leicester Fosse Rovers F.C. 11/11/1893) and (home against Windsor Street Gas F.C. 28/4/1894). Between 1892 and 1895 Tomlinson played 28 games for Singers Reserves.
Note: The 1891 Census lists Arthur Edward Tomlinson aged 18, born in Woodthorp, Derbyshire circa 1872, a bicycle machinist living at 7 Jesson Street, Hillfields.
Also note: Tomlinson (Rudge F.C.) 1895.
GLOVER, centre forward
2 appearances
He made his debut in the home friendly match against Leicester Fosse F.C. on 19/11/1892. Singers won 1-0. Seven days later he played at inside forward in the home friendly game against Aston Villa Reserves. Singers only fielded ten men and lost 6-1.
Note: Leamington Town F.C. versus Singers Reserves 24/9/1892. The Leamington team included W. J. Glover (inside forward) and A. C. S. Glover (centre forward). Singers won 13-0.
Also note: John “Jack” Glover (full back) played for Rudge F.C. before signing for West Bromwich Albion F.C. (1896) and Blackburn Rovers F.C. (1897).
GRIFFITHS, right wing
1 appearance
He played in the home friendly game against Birmingham Southfield F.C. on 3/12/1892. The Vocalists won 13-1.
Note: Griffiths (left wing) Rudge F.C. (Coventry Standard 4/10/1889).
OWEN IRELAND, full back
1 appearance
He was born in Coventry on 13/1/1869. The 1881 Aston Manor Census states he was living with his parents at 48 Mill Lane, Theodore Place, Aston. Owen played in the home friendly game against Aston Saint James F.C. (Birmingham) on 31/12/1892. This match ended in a 1-1 draw. It was his only first team appearance although he did play several games for Singers Reserves. On 7/1/1893 he played for the Singers Second XI against the Singers First XI, who won 3-1. The Vocalists signed him from Rudge F.C. prior to the commencement of the 1894-95 season (MDT 23/8/1894). Owen married Frances Fanny Neville in Coventry in 1896. The 1901 Coventry Census indicates the couple resided at Court 11, 1 Union Street, Whitefriars. He was employed as a “cycle parts turner”. The 1912 Coventry Directory states Owen was working as an industrial grinder and lived at 2 Moat Street. According to the 1921 Coventry Census he was unemployed and had previously worked at the Swift Motor Factory based at Parkside. At this time he resided at “Saint Francis” Woodland Road, Binley Woods. Owen died aged 75 in Coventry in 1944.
TIMMINS, centre forward
1 appearance
He played in the home friendly game against Aston Saint James F.C. (Birmingham) on 31/12/1892. This match ended in a 1-1 draw.
Note: Timmins – Unity Gas F.C. (Birmingham) (MDT 2/1/1893).
LATHAM, inside forward
1 appearance
He played in the home friendly game against Aston Saint James F.C. (Birmingham) on 31/12/1892. This match ended in a 1-1 draw.
ALBERT ALLDRICK, right back/left back
Singers F.C. 152 appearances
Coventry City F.C. (1898-99) 32 appearances
Albert was born in Bishopsgate Street, Birmingham on 19/5/1870. The 1881 Birmingham Census states he was living at 40 Landsdowne Street, Aston Park. He joined the Royal Warwickshire Regiment at Warwick Depot on 4/2/1887 and signed up for 12 years service. His Army Service Record states he was 18 years old when he joined, but in fact his age was 16 years and 8 months. The record also states he was 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighed 9 stones 2 pounds. Albert was initially stationed at the Budbroke Barracks in Warwickshire. He was a member of the regimental football team managed by Colour Sergeant-Major Thorne. Despite his diminutive stature, he gained a reputation of being a tough-tackling full back and consistently performed to a high standard. He joined the 1st Battalion in May 1887. Albert played at left back for the “Warwicks” against the Vocalists on 5/1/1889. Singers won 2-1. The Warwicks had travelled from their current base in Fermoy, Ireland, to play this game as part of a tour of England. After the match the teams, officials and some supporters went to the Alexandra Coffee Tavern, Ford Street, for a meal and refreshments. In a speech Colour Sergeant Thorne said: “It is very gratifying for us to play against a team like Singers who were one of the first to be selected by the regiment to meet when we came to England”. During the evening songs were performed by Albert, George Maley and Walter Edmond. A stirring citation was given by James George Morgan, the Singers F.C. secretary. For some reason Albert went “absent-without-leave” in June 1890 for 140 days and later served 36 days in a military prison. He was reinstated as a private in November 1890 and served in India with the 2nd Battalion until December 1891. During this period he was promoted to Lance Corporal and the 2nd Battalion served in Ceylon (Sri Lanka) until November 1892. Albert was discharged at his own request in Ceylon upon payment of £18 under Article 609 of the Royal Warrant of 1892. Having returned home, he played for the Singers First XI against the Singers Second XI on 7/1/1893. The First XI won 3-1. He made his full debut for the Vocalists in the home friendly match against Unity Gas F.C. (Birmingham) seven days later. Singers won 1-0. Albert married Florence Louisa Stocks in Coventry on Christmas Day 1893. At the time of his marriage he was living in Gosford Street, Hillfields and employed as a machinist. In later years he worked as a coach builder and motor car fitter. He made his debut for CCFC in the home game against Hereford Town on 1/10/1898. This was an F.A. Cup Preliminary Round fixture. City drew 0-0 in front of a crowd estimated at 1,200. They lost the replay 1-0. Albert played his last match for the club on 22/4/1899, in the away league game against Hereford Thistle F.C. City lost 3-1. The 1911 Coventry Census confirms he resided at 6 Newnham Road, Hillfields. At some point he and Florence ran a fish & chip shop in North Street, Upper Stoke. Albert was a keen pigeon keeper, which apparently was a family tradition.
He died aged 69 at home, 71 Burlington Road, Hillfields on 25 February 1940. He was buried at Coventry Cemetery (London Road) on 3 March.
K. WILSON, forward/winger
2 appearances
He played in a practice match for the Singers First XI against the Singers Second XI on 7/1/1893. The First XI won 3-1. A week later he played in the home friendly game against Unity Gas F.C. (Birmingham). Singers won 1-0.
Note: K. Wilson (inside forward) MDT Friday 6/1/1893).
J. WILSON, full back/half back
3 appearances
Formerly with Rudge F.C. He played for Singers in the home league game against Smethwick Carriage Works (Staffordshire) on 6/10/1894. Smethwick won 3-2. His other two league appearances were: Redditch Town
F.C. (home) on 10/11/1894 Singers won 3-1 and Small Heath Reserves (away) on 24/11/1894 the Vocalists lost 8-0. He was captain of Singers F.C. Reserves during the 1895-96 season (MDT 14/2/1896).
WILLIAM “BILLY” FLETCHER, inside forward/winger
42 appearances, 7 goals
He made his first team debut in the away friendly game against Wednesbury Old Athletic F.C. (Staffordshire) on 18/3/1893. Singers won 2-1. Billy scored his first goal for the Vocalists in the home friendly match against Rudge F.C. on 1/4/1893. Singers won 2-1. He scored two goals in the 7-1 victory against Crewe Britannia F.C. at the Stoke Road Ground on 29/4/1893. His last appearance for the club was against Aston Villa Reserves F.C. on 11/4/1896. This match was played at the Emscote Ground, Warwick. A crowd estimated at 1,000 saw Villa win 2-1. He left the club in the close season of 1896 to join Foleshill Great Heath F.C. (Coventry).
Note: A player named Fletcher (inside right) played two games for Coventry City F.C. during the 1902-03 season, his identity remains unknown.
R. FLETCHER (full back/half back) Match reports confirm he was a member of the Singers Reserves team during the 1896-97 season. It’s possible some of the above appearances should be credited to him.
COTTERILL
41 appearances, 13 goals (between 25/3/1893 and 27/4/1895)
The first mention of a player named Cotterill (MDT Monday 3/4/1893) was after the home friendly against Rudge F.C. (Saturday 1/4/1893), a match which Singers won 2-1. The newspaper football correspondent wrote: “Supporters will no doubt welcome with open arms the advent of a really brilliant centre-forward in Cotterill, who both at Stourbridge and on Saturday, showed himself to be just the man wanted. He is very clever with the ball, feeds his wings well, and goes at his work in a style bearing a striking resemblance to that of Mobley”.
It has not been possible to determine exact individual appearance/goal records for these two players:
THOMAS COTTERILL, forward
He previously played for Grantham Rovers F.C. (MDT 12/1/1894). Thomas made his debut for the Vocalists in the home friendly game against Rudge F.C. on 13/1/1894. Singers won 3-2 in front of a crowd estimated at 2,000. He joined Loughborough Athletic F.C. (Leicestershire) in April 1895 before moving to Small Heath F.C. (Birmingham). He was re-instated as an amateur player for the 1895-96 season and signed for Wolverton F.C.(Buckinghamshire) in the close season of 1896. He played in Wolverton’s home friendly game against the Vocalists on 2/9/1896, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
J. COTTERILL junior, forward
He was signed from Saltley Gas F.C.(Birmingham) in the summer of 1894 (MDT 23/8/1894).
WALKER, full back
1 appearance
He played at left full back in the home friendly match against Gresley Rovers F.C. (Derbyshire) on 2/9/1893. Singers won 2-0.
PREEDY, full back/half back
1 appearance
He played in the home friendly game against Gresley Rovers F.C. (Derbyshire) on 2/9/1893. Singers won 2-0. He may have been a soldier in the Royal Warwickshire Regiment. The regimental football team was organised by Sergeant-Major Thorne. Royal Warwickshire Regiment F.C. later changed their name to Budbrooke F.C. Note: H. Preedy (goalkeeper) and C. Preedy (centre forward) were both members of the Royal Warwickshire Regiment team which played against the Vocalists on 5/1/1889 at Stoke Road Ground. Singers won that game 2-1.
Also Note: Preedy (centre half) All Saints F.C. (Coventry) MDT 28/10/1891, Preedy (centre half) Budbrooke F.C. (Warwickshire) MDT 21/10/1892. In addition Preedy (centre half) played in both games against Singers Reserves during the 1892-93 season.
Also note: Preedy (centre half) All Saints F.C. (Coventry) Coventry Times 20/9/1893 and Preedy (full back) Unity Villa (Coventry) MDT 3/9/1898. The Coventry 1891 Census lists William Preedy aged 19, a bicycle machinist born in Coventry on 30/12/1872. He resided at 9 Vernon Street, Hillfields and was the brother-in-law of George Bowers.
CHARLES “CHARLIE” ROBERTS, centre half/forward
Singers F.C. 163 appearances, 19 goals
Coventry City F.C. 81 appearances, 1 goal
Charles was born in Queen Street, West Bromwich on 30/5/1868. He made his debut at centre forward in the home friendly match against Gresley Rovers F.C. (Derbyshire) on 2/9/1893. Singers won 2-0. He scored a hat-trick in the home friendly game against Great Bridge Unity F.C. (Staffordshire) a week later. Singers won 8-1. During the 1893-94 season he scored 12 goals in 25 games. The following season he switched to centre half, a position he excelled in for many years. Charlie was the younger brother of Robert James Roberts (Bob), the famous West Bromwich Albion goalkeeper. He played in the 1886, 1887 and 1888 F.A. Cup finals and won two England caps. Charlie’s last appearance for the Vocalists was in the home friendly match against Foleshill Great Heath F.C. (Coventry) on 30 April 1898, prior to the name change. Singers won 3-0. He played in Coventry City’s first match under their new title. This was the away league fixture against Wellington Town F.C. on 3/9/1898. Wellington won 5-0. The 1901 Coventry Census states the Roberts family resided at 6 Gilbert Place, Brook Street, Hillfields. Charles was employed as a bicycle brazier. His last match for Coventry City was against Brierley Hill Alliance F.C. on 5/4/1901 at the Highfield Road Ground. He scored the first goal in City’s 4-1 victory. The 1911 Coventry Census shows he was living at 26 Gilbert Street, Hillfields and worked as a brass brazier at the Premier Bicycle Company.
Charles died aged 73 at the Emergency Hospital, Nuneaton on 5 October 1941, having suffered a brain hemorrhage. Details of his funeral are unknown. This acknowledgement appeared in the MDT six days later: Mrs. Roberts, sons and daughters, of 83 Colchester Street (Hillfields), wish to thank all kind friends, neighbours, customers of the Waterloo Tavern, Mrs. Boyes and Flora, for kindness shown in their sad bereavement. Charlie’s daughter, Amy, married William Reaves in Coventry in 1923. William wrote a letter to CCFC regarding the Faithful 25 Fan Club, an initiative which enabled Derrick Robins, Sky Blues Chairman, to nominate the club’s best 25 supporters from entries received. His letter was reproduced in the match programme for the home game against Manchester City on 19/10/1968. Here is an extract: “My wife and I have been supporting the City since 1918 in our courting days. We have now been married for 45 years and are just as crazy about the game as when we were youngsters. I am now 72 years of age and my wife Amy, is 70. I sincerely hope you will consider our application to join the Faithful 25 Fan Club”. William and Amy were successful in their application, as confirmed by an article in the match programme for the home game against Leeds United on 16/11/1968.
HAYNES, left wing
9 appearances, 3 goals
His nine appearances came within the first two months of the 1893-94 season. He made his debut in the home friendly game against Gresley Rovers F.C. (Derbyshire) on 2/9/1893. Singers won 2-0. The three goals he scored came in the form of a “hat-trick” in the friendly match against Mitchell Saint George’s F.C. (Birmingham) on 16/9/1893 at Stoke Road Ground. His last game for the club was in the home friendly against Aston Saint James F.C. (Birmingham) on 4/11/1893. The Vocalists won 6-0.
Note: Haynes (left winger) of Leamington Town F.C. has signed for Warwick United F.C. (MDT 14/9/1894). Also note: A. Haynes (half back) and W. Haynes (inside forward) played for Leamington Town F.C. against Rudge F.C. (MDT 4/10/1895).
JOHN “JACK” MASON, half back
13 appearances.
All of his appearances came during the 1893-94 season. Jack made his debut in the home friendly game against Great Bridge Unity F.C. (Staffordshire) on 9/9/1893. Singers won 8-1. His last match for the club was in the semi-final of the Walsall Senior Cup played at Walsall on 31/3/1894. Ironbridge F.C. (Staffordshire) beat Singers 4-2.
WILLIAM “BILL”. MASON, inside forward
12 appearances, 4 goals
All of his appearances came during the 1893-94 season. Bill made his debut in the home friendly match against Great Bridge Unity (Staffordshire) on 9/9/1893. Singers won 8-1. He opened his scoring account with two goals against Mitchell Saint George’s F.C. (Birmingham) on 16/9/1893. The Vocalists won 6-0. His last game for the club was in the home friendly match against Brierley Hill Alliance F.C. (Dudley) on 2/12/1893. Singers lost 3-1.
Note: The two Mason’s were cousins.
J. SHELDON, centre forward
2 appearances
He made his debut in the home friendly game against Mitchells Saint George’s F.C. (Birmingham) on 16/9/1893. The Vocalists won 6-0. He played in the home friendly match against Willenhall Pickwick F.C. (Staffordshire) a week later, which ended in a 1-1 draw. He signed for Unity Villa F.C. (Coventry) in September 1898. Coventry City signed him from that club in February 1899 and he made one appearance in the first team, at inside right. This was in the away fixture against Hereford Thistle F.C. on 22 April, the last league game of the 1898-99 season. Thistle won 3-1.
WILLIAM HOLLOWAY, centre forward
30 appearances, 10 goals
He made his debut in the home friendly game against Windsor Street Gas F.C.(Birmingham) on 7/10/1893. He scored a goal in Singers’ 5-0 victory. The Vocalists played Smethwick Carriage Works F.C. (Staffordshire) at the Stoke Road Ground on 6/10/1894. The match report in the MDT that day stated: “Holloway was an absentee from the home team having missed his train at West Bromwich”. His place was taken by Ernest Yardley. Holloway’s last match for Singers was in the away fixture at Old Hill Wanderers F.C. (Staffordshire) on Boxing Day 1894. The Vocalists lost 5-2 in front of a crowd estimated at 200. William joined Redditch Town F.C. in March 1895. He played at the Stoke Road Ground against the Vocalists on 18/4/1896. Approximately 2,000 spectators saw Singers win 1-0.
Note: William Holloway, born circa 1874 in West Bromwich. The 1881 West Bromwich Census states he lived with his family at Sam’s Lane. William married Mary Harriet Louisa Turley on 7/8/1897 at Holy Trinity Church, West Bromwich. The 1901 West Bromwich Census indicates he was employed as a “hollow ware maker” residing at 60 Arthur Street. This was just five houses away from former Singers F.C. player, William Henry Fessey (1895-1896).
William Holloway died aged 52 in West Bromwich in 1925.
ARTHUR EDWIN FLAVELL, goalkeeper
30 appearances
He previously played for West Bromwich Baptists F.C. and Mitchell Saint George’s F.C. (Birmingham). Arthur made his debut for Singers in the friendly game against Rudge F.C. on 21/10/1893 at the Red House Ground. Rudge won 3-1. Seven days later he kept goal for the Vocalists in the away match against Halesowen F.C. This was a Birmingham Senior Cup 2nd Round tie which Singers won 1-0. Arthur was praised for his performances in these two games (MDT Monday 13/11/1893): “The performance of Flavell confirmed the good opinion of him by his displays at the Red House Ground and at Halesowen”. During the 1893-94 and 1894-95 seasons, he competed with three other goalkeepers, these being Edge, Hollins and Teddy Kirk. His last appearance for the club was in the league match against Old Hill Wanderers F.C. (Staffordshire) on 8/12/1894 at the Stoke Road Ground. A crowd estimated at 1,000 watched a 0-0 draw. Arthur joined Berwick Rangers F.C. (Worcester) in October 1895 and West Bromwich Albion F.C. in September 1896. His last known club was Millwall Athletic F.C. of the Southern League whom he joined in May 1899. Arthur made his debut for Millwall Athletic F.C. on Saturday 2/9/1899 against Tottenham Hotspur F.C. at the Athletic Grounds. Spurs won 3-1. His performance in this game prompted the following comment from the Londan Daily Chronicle (Monday 4/9/1899): “They (Millwall) will need a more efficient goalkeeper than Flavell, unless the West Bromwich Albion reserve shows vastly improved form”.
BAILEY/BAYLEY, right winger
1 appearance
He played in the friendly game against Leicester Fosse Rovers F.C. at the Stoke Road Ground on 11/11/1893. Rovers won 1-0.
Note: The MDT (10/11/1893) states Bayley yet the match report the following day states Bailey.
T. HOLMES or H. HOLMES, centre forward
5 appearances, 7 goals
Holmes exploded onto the scene with seven goals in his first three matches during December 1893. He made his debut in the home friendly match against Smethwick Carriage Works F.C. (Staffordshire) on 23/12/1893. Singers won 4-0 and he scored two goals. He repeated this feat on Boxing Day in the 3-1 victory at Willenhall Pickwick F.C. (Staffordshire). He then scored a hat-trick against Oldbury Town F.C. (Staffordshire) at the Stoke Road Ground on 27 December. The Vocalists won 4-1. He made two appearances for Singers during November 1895, these being two home league games: 9/11/1895 lost 6-1 to Small Heath Reserves F.C. and 16/11/1895 lost 3-2 to Wolverhampton Wanderers Reserves F.C.
Note: According to the Coventry Times newspaper T. Holmes (13/9/1893) and H. Holmes (20/9/1893) both played for Rudge F.C. In addition, T. Holmes signed for Foleshill Great Heath F.C. in May 1895.
RICHARDS, inside forward
12 appearances, 9 goals
He made his debut in the home friendly game against Smethwick Carriage Works F.C. (Staffordshire) on 23/12/1893. Singers won 4-0 and he scored a goal. He also scored a goal in the away friendly match against Willenhall Pickwick F.C. (Staffordshire) on Boxing Day. The Vocalists won 3-1. His last appearance for the club was in the friendly game against Windsor Street Gas F.C. (Birmingham) at the Stoke Road Ground on 28/4/1894. He scored two goals in a 3-3 draw.
Note: T. Richards (right wing) played for Rudge F.C. (MDT 20/9/1893). During the summer of 1894 Richards was signed by West Bromwich Albion F.C. (MDT 24/8/1894).
CHARLES “CHARLIE” HERBERT LOMAS, centre half/half back
Singers F.C. 68 appearances, 2 goals
Coventry City F.C. 82 appearances, 11 goals
He was born at 5 Oaston Terrace, Nuneaton on 18 April 1874. His previous club was Saint George’s F.C. (Coventry). According to the 1891 Census he was employed as a bicycle polisher and lived at Court 9, 6 Spon Street, Spon End, with his parents. Charlie made his debut in the home friendly game against Oldbury Town F.C. (Staffordshire) on 27/12/1893. Singers won 4-1. He scored his first goal for the club in the 5-0 home win against Redditch Town F.C. on 28/12/1896. His last goal for the Vocalists was against Halesowen F.C. on 12/2/1898. Singers won 2-1. His last appearance under the Singers name was against Foleshill Great Heath F.C. (Coventry) on 30/4/1898. The Vocalists won 3-0. During his Singers career he forged a formidable partnership with Joe Whitehouse and Charlie Roberts, at the time considered to be the best half back line the club had fielded. Charlie made his Coventry City debut in the away league fixture against Wellington Town F.C. on 3/9/1898. City lost 5-0. He scored his first goal for Coventry in the away league fixture against Shrewsbury Town F.C. on 5/11/1898. City lost that game 3-2. He scored his last goal for the club at the Highfield Road Ground on 19/1/1901. Coventry beat Wellington Saint George F.C. 4-0 which turned out to be their best win of the season. His last appearance for City was in the home league game against Berwick Rangers F.C. (Worcestershire) on 16/3/1901. Rangers won 1-0. The 1901 Coventry Census indicates he was employed as a mason’s labourer and still lived at home. He did not marry. Charlie was a loyal servant to the club and is one of a small number of players who played under both titles. CCFC historian Walter Harris (MDT 10/10/1936) made this comment: “Charlie Lomas, robust and a thorn in the side of many a winger, a great lover of open air life, with either dog, ferret or gun”.
Note: Lomas (centre half) Royal Artillery F.C. (Coventry) (MDT 27/10/1893) and Lomas (half back) Lord Street F.C. (Coventry) (MDT 10/1/1896).
KILLEEN, right wing
1 appearance
He played in the friendly match against Small Heath Reserves F.C. (Birmingham) at the Stoke Road Ground on 27/1/1894. This game ended in a 2-2 draw. MDT Saturday 27/1/1894: “Singers were trying a new right wing forward Killeen, who until a few months back, performed with a regimental team out in India”. MDT Monday 29/1/1894: “No more need be said of the forwards except that Killeen did a few good things in a inostentuous manner, but he appeared to be so flustered as to make it hard to define his capabilities”. Kenilworth Advertiser Saturday 3/2/1894: “Killeen, a new man, performed indifferently in the first half, but improved later on”.
PARSONS, half back
1 appearance
His only appearance for the Vocalists was in the away friendly game against Leicester Fosse Rovers F.C. on 3/3/1894. This match ended in a 0-0 draw. The attendance that day was estimated at 4,000.
Note: J. Parsons (half back) Hillfield Wanderers F.C. (Coventry) (MDT 5/3/1894).
JAMES “JIMMY” TASKER, inside forward/centre forward/winger
19 appearances, 5 goals
He was born in Prescot, Lancashire circa 1876. In 1881 the Tasker family resided at Court 13, 20 Spon Street, Spon End. The 1891 Coventry Census confirms James was living with his family at Court 1, 2 Junction Street, Earlsdon. He was employed as a watchmaker’s apprentice. His elder brother, Jonathan, had left the family home the previous year having married Mary Simmons. Jonathan was a talented rugby player who had represented Rudge RFC and Coventry RFC between 1893 and 1896. He is pictured in the 1896 Coventry RFC team group photograph taken prior to their game at Harlequins. Both James and Jonathan played cricket for Coventry Springfields CC in 1893. James played for several association teams during his career; Saint John’s Albion F.C. (1891-1892), Foleshill Saint George’s F.C. (1892-1893), Rudge F.C. (1893-1894), Foleshill Great Heath F.C. (1894-1895), Singers F.C. (1895-1896), Coventry Progress F.C. (1896-1897) and re-joined Foleshill Great Heath F.C. (1897-1898). James played for Rudge United (Rudge Reserves) against Singers Reserves on 16/9/1893. The game was held at the Red House Ground situated next to the Red House public house on Stoney Stanton Road. Rudge won 3-0. He played for Rudge’s first team against the Vocalists on 21/10/1893 at the same venue. Rudge won 3-1. James made his debut for Singers in the away fixture at Leicester Fosse Rovers F.C. on 3/3/1894. The match ended in a 0-0 draw.
Note: Kenilworth Advertiser (Saturday 12/10/1895) – Singers 6-1 Hereford F. A. Cup 1st Qualifying Round – “A trial was given to young Tasker, who was a member of last season’s Foleshill Great Heath F.C.”. James last match for “The Heathens” was against Fazeley Swifts F.C. in the Nuneaton Cottage Hospital Cup Final. The game was held on 26/4/1899 at the Coton Road Ground in Nuneaton. Foleshill won 2-1. They had won the Midland Daily Telegraph Cup and the Foleshill Nursing Cup earlier in the 1898/1899 season. Prior to this success James had received winners medals in three Midland Daily Telegraph Cup Finals he had participated in. He died aged 22 at the family home on 9/7/1899. The Coventry Times newspaper (Wednesday 12/7/1899) reported: “James Tasker, a well-known outside right player for Foleshill Great Heath F.C., and for some time associated with Coventry City (Singers F.C.), died at the residence of his parents, 10 Junction Street, on Sunday evening. He broke a blood vessel a week ago and had been in a critical condition ever since”. The Heathens held their Annual Dinner at the Angel Inn, Foleshill three days after his death. Mr. H. Dickinson attended on behalf of Coventry City F.C. and said: “I pay tribute to the memory of Tasker who was a hard working member of the City Club whilst in our ranks”. In his last season for Foleshill James was top scorer with 27 goals.
GEORGE HUBBARD, half back/winger
36 appearances, 3 goals
He was born in Aston, Birmingham in 1873. The 1891 Stoke (Warwickshire) Census indicates the Hubbard family lived in Stoke Green. George was aged 17 and his brother, Frederick, was aged 19. Both were employed as bicycle machinists and played for Stoke F.C. (Warwickshire), Frederick being a half back. George made his debut for Singers in the home friendly match against Coalville (Leicestershire) on Saturday 10/3/1894. This was a Walsall Senior Cup Second Round tie which The Vocalists won 3-0. MDT Monday (12/3/1894): “Hubbard, after cleverly beating one or two opponents, sent in a nice centre, and the ball went through off one of the Coalville players (own goal)”. The other goals scored that day were provided by Thomas Bird and Fletcher. His last appearance for the club was in the league game against Stourbridge F.C. (Worcestershire) at Stoke Road Ground on 20/4/1895. Singers lost 2-1. George married Amelia Miles on Christmas Day 1895 at Stoke Parish Church. He signed for Rudge F.C. in August 1895 and later played for Unity Villa F.C. (Coventry). His last known club was Progress F.C. (Coventry) whom he joined in the close season of 1898. The 1911 Coventry Census states the Hubbard family lived at 94 King Edward Road, Hillfields. George was employed as a chargehand at Humber Limited, Humber Road.
He died aged 46 at home in 1920 (date unknown). He was interred at Coventry Cemetery on 5/8/1920.
HERBERT CHATLAND, half back/ winger/centre forward
Singers F.C. 61 appearances, 2 goals
Coventry City F.C. 31 appearances, 15 goals
He was born at 63 Much Park Street, Coventry on 11 April 1874. The 1891 Census confirms he was employed as a bicycle repairer and lived at 34 Hood Street, Hillfields. He was previously with West Orchard F.C. (Coventry) (MDT 15/9/1893) and was their captain. Herbert made his debut for the Vocalists in the home friendly game against Windsor Street Gas F.C. (Birmingham) on 28/4/1894, which ended in a 3-3 draw. He was signed from Rudge F.C. at the commencement of the 1894/1895 season (MDT 23/8/1894). He scored his first goal for Singers in the league game against Kidderminster Harriers F.C. at the Stoke Road Ground on 1/9/1894. This match ended in a 4-4 draw. His other goal for the Vocalists was in the home league fixture against Stourbridge F.C. on 20/4/1895. Singers lost 2-1. His last appearance under the Singers title was in the home league game against Halesowen F.C. on 20/4/1897. The Vocalists won 4-0. He made his Coventry City debut on 31 December 1898. City beat Wellington Town F.C. (Shropshire) 4-1 and he scored two goals from the centre forward position. His last game for City was against Shrewsbury Town F.C. at the Highfield Road Ground on 30 March 1901. He played at centre half and scored a goal in City’s 5-2 victory. Herbert also played for Lord Street F.C. (Coventry), Foleshill Great Heath F.C. (Coventry) and Leamington Town F.C. during his football career.
BAGNALL, half back
13 appearances
He was signed from West Bromwich Albion F.C. (MDT 23/8/1894). He made his debut in the home league match against Kidderminster Harriers F. C. on 1/9/1894, which ended in a 4-4 draw. His last appearance for the club was on 1/12/1894 in the friendly game against Rudge F.C. at the Stoke Road Ground. Rudge won 2-1.
Note: Possibly Albert Bagnall who was a reserve player for West Bromwich Albion who joined Northfleet F.C. in September 1896.
YORKE, centre forward/left wing
3 appearances
He played for Halesowen F.C. and Redditch Town F.C. before signing for Singers prior to the start of the 1894-95 season (MDT 23/8/1894). He made his debut in the home league game against Kidderminster Harriers F.C. on 1/9/1894, which ended in a 4-4 draw. His last game for the club was in the away league fixture against Oldbury Town F.C. on 22/9/1894. The Vocalists lost 4-2.
LUCAS, left wing
2 appearances, 1 goal
He was signed from Unity Gas F.C. (Birmingham) in the close season of 1894 (MDT 23/8/1894). He made his debut in the league match against Kidderminster Harriers F.C. on 1/9/1894 at the Stoke Road Ground, which ended in a 4-4 draw. He scored a goal in that game. His last appearance for the club was a week later in the home league fixture against Berwick Rangers F.C. (Worcester). Rangers won 2-0.
TRUEMAN, centre forward
1 appearance
He played for Windsor Street Gas F.C. (Birmingham) against Singers on 28/4/1894 (Coventry Times 2/5/1894). The game ended in a 3-3 draw. His solitary appearance for the Vocalists was in the home league game against Berwick Rangers F.C. (Worcester) on 9/9/1894. Rangers won 2-0.
BOND, centre forward
2 appearances
He made his debut in the home league match against Worcester Rovers F.C. on 15/9/1894. Rovers won 3-1. His other appearance was against Small Heath Reserves F.C. (Birmingham) at the Stoke Road Ground on 29/9/1894. Singers won 2-0.
Note: F. Bond (centre forward) played for Packington F.C. (Warwickshire) (MDT 20/2/1891).
HOLLINS, goalkeeper
2 appearances
He was signed from Townend F.C. (Coventry) prior to the commencement of the 1894-95 season (MDT 23/8/1894). Effectively he was third choice goalkeeper behind Arthur Flavell and J. Edge. Hollins made his debut in the league home game against Redditch Town F.C. on 10/11/1894. Singers won 3-1. His other appearance was in the away league fixture against Small Heath Reserves F.C. (Birmingham) on 24/11/1894. The Vocalists lost 8-0.
Note: T. Hollins (goalkeeper) played for Hillfield Wanderers F.C. (Coventry) (MDT 13/9/1895).
J. WILSON, full back/half back
3 appearances
He was signed from Rudge F.C. prior to the start of the 1894-95 season (MDT 23/8/1894). Wilson made his debut in the home league game against Smethwick Carriage Works F.C. (Staffordshire) on 6/10/1894. Singers lost 3-2. His second appearance was in the league game against Redditch Town F.C. at the Stoke Road Ground on 10/11/1894. The Vocalists won 3-1. His last game for the club was in the away league fixture at Small Heath Reserves F.C. (Birmingham) two weeks later. Singers lost 8-0.
WILLIAM ARTHUR NEWALL, centre forward/left winger
First captain of Coventry City Football Club
Singers F.C. 33 appearances, 12 goals
Coventry City F.C. 12 appearances
He was born in Smethwick, Staffordshire on 1 October 1868. The 1881 Smethwick Census confirms the Newall family lived at 72 Price Street. William was 12 years old. The 1891 Census indicates he was employed as an iron bedstead maker. William married Mary Noons at Saint Matthew’s Church, Kings Norton in 1892. He later entered the pub trade and according to the 1911 Census, was licensee of the Bridge Inn, Bridge Street, Smethwick. In 1921 he was the publican/manager of the Red Lion, 33 Smallbrook Street, Birmingham. This was owned by Mitchell & Butlers Brewery. The 1939 England & Wales Register states William was retired and lived at 6 The Laurels, Montague Road, Smethwick. He was a popular member of the Sons of Rest organisation (established 1933) in a building situated at Victoria Park. Here senior citizens could attend social events and play recreational games.
William died aged 86 at home in November 1954. He has the distinction of being the first captain of Coventry City F.C. He was a hard working, industrious left winger noted for his speed. This is a summary of his football career prior to joining Singers in the close season of 1897: Smethwick Carriage Works F.C. (Staffordshire) (1891-1893), Stourbridge F.C. (1893/1894), West Bromwich Albion F.C. first team (Division One 1894/1895 14 appearances 2 goals. He sustained a bad injury at the Albion and was forced to rest for a period of time before resurrecting his career) and Worcester Rovers F.C. (1895-1897). When he left Coventry he signed for Smethwick Wesleyan Rovers F.C. (Staffordshire) and played for them between 1899 and 1900. William made his debut for Singers in the away league fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers Reserves F.C. on 11/9/1897. Approximately 3,000 spectators saw a 0-0 draw. He scored his first goal for the Vocalists in the home league fixture against Small Heath Reserves F.C. (Birmingham) on 9/10/1897. Singers won 3-1. His last appearance under the Singers title was in the home friendly match against Foleshill Great Heath F.C. (Coventry) on 30/4/1898. The Vocalists won 3-0. His first match as a Coventry City player was in the away league fixture against Wellington Town F.C. (Shropshire) on 3/9/1898. This was the first game under their new title. City lost 5-0. The following month he played in the two F.A. Cup Preliminary Round matches against Hereford Town F.C. A crowd estimated at 1,200 saw City draw 0-0 at the Stoke Road Ground on 1/10/1898. Hereford won the replay 1-0 four days later. His last game for CCFC was in the away league fixture at Brierley Hill Alliance F.C. (Dudley) on 3/12/1898. City lost 2-1. Joe Harris took over the captaincy of the team when William left Coventry. Harris was previously vice-captain.
BENJAMIN ERNEST NEWALL, forward
27 appearances, 7 goals
He was William’s younger brother. Benjamin was born in Smethwick, Staffordshire on 15 October 1873. The 1891 Census states he was aged 17 and worked as a axle turner/machinist at a coach works, implying he may have been employed at the Smethwick Carriage Works. His first game for Singers was in a friendly match against Rudge F.C. (Coventry) at the Stoke Road Ground on 1 December 1894. Rudge won 2-1. Seven days later he made his league debut in the home game against Old Hill Wanderers F.C. (Staffordshire), which ended in a 0-0 draw. His last game for the Vocalists was against Redditch Town F.C. at the Stoke Road Ground on 18/4/1896. A crowd estimated at 2,000 saw Newall score the goal to give Singers a 1-0 victory. Surprisingly, he played at centre half in that game. Benjamin was elected to the Singers F.C. Committee at the club’s Annual General Meeting, held at the Spittlemoor Bar, Hillfields on 1 June 1897. Two match reports in the MDT (1/9/1897) confirm both brothers were playing for the Vocalists at this time. William was in Wolverhampton making his debut with the first team against Wolves Reserves, which ended in a 0-0 draw. Benjamin was a member of the reserve team which lost 3-1 to Stockingford F.C. (Warwickshire) at the Stoke Road Ground. Benjamin married Nellie Louise Hopper in Coventry on 5 November 1898. The couple were both living in Highfield Road at the time of their marriage. The Coventry Times newspaper reported (7/3/1900): “Some
short time ago Mr. B. Newall, a former active player for Singers and Coventry City Football Club, and now Chairman of the City Committee, had the misfortune to lose a considerable quantity of goods through a fire at his residence, and suffered considerably from a financial point of view consequent of not being insured”. His fellow officials, at a meeting held at the Binley Oak, Payne’s Lane, Hillfields, presented Mr. Newall with a small purse of money and a patent pen, as a token of their appreciation of his services to the club, and as an item of compensation for the loss he had sustained. Thomas Cashmore (City Secretary) made the presentation”. The 1901 Coventry Census confirms he lived at 56 Oxford Street, Hillfields and was employed as a motor car fitter. Benjamin was elected CCFC Secretary at the club’s AGM held at the Sydenham Palace Hotel on 31 August 1900. He replaced Thomas Cashmore. A report in the MDT (12/6/1902) states: “Coventry City Football Club Committee have appointed Mr. O’Shea as Secretary of the organisation in the place of Mr. B. Newall, who has resigned the post after a period of excellent service”. Benjamin was a qualified referee and officiated in local matches. In 1911 the Newall family was living at 126 Widdrington Road, Bishopsgate Green, Coventry. He was employed as a motor mechanic. The 1939 England & Wales Register lists the Newall family as living at 23 Middlemarch Road, Radford.
Benjamin died aged 73 at home on 7 October 1947. His funeral service was held at Saint Nicholas Church, Radford.
J. EDGE, goalkeeper
19 appearances
He played for Saint George’s F.C. (Coventry) in 1893. All his appearances for the Vocalists came during the 1894-95 season. His main rival for the number one jersey was Arthur Flavell. Edge made his first team debut in the away league match against Stourbridge F.C. on 15/12/1894. Singers lost 5-2 in front of a crowd estimated at 2,500. His last game for the club was in the away league fixture against Halesowen F.C. on 27/4/1895. The Vocalists lost 2-1. He joined Foleshill Great Heath F.C. (Coventry) in August 1895.
DAY, half back
1 appearance
His only first team appearance was in the away league game against Aston Villa Reserves F.C. on 12/1/1895. Villa won 4-1. Singers goal was scored by Thomas Bird.
C. HINDS, centre half/winger/inside forward
3 appearances
He played for Rudge F.C. during the 1891-92 season (MDT 25/11/1891). During the 1894/1895 season he played for Singers Reserves. His best performance for them was against Rugby Alexandra F.C. (Warwickshire) on 15/12/1894. Hinds scored a hat-trick in a 5-1 victory at the Stoke Road Ground. He made his first team debut in the home league game against Wolverhampton Wanderers Reserves F.C. on 23/2/1895. Singers lost 6-1, their goal being scored by Charlie Roberts. MDT Saturday 23/2/1895: “Wolves were penalised in their half and Hinds missed a capital opening (good chance) close in”. MDT Monday 25/2/1895: “Cotterill and Bird were conspicuous amongst the forwards but Hinds was not a success. He is somwhat light and the going was heavy, whilst occasionally he seemed declined to face the music”. He played one first team game during the 1895/1896 season. This was against Redditch Town F.C. at home on 18/4/1896. The Vocalists won 1-0 in front of a crowd estimated at 2,000. Hinds last appearance for the club was in a practice match prior to the commencement of the 1896-97 season. He played centre half for the Singers Second XI against Singers First XI at the Stoke Road Ground on 5/9/1896. The game ended in a 1-1 draw.
LOUIS BENTON, goalkeeper
1 appearance
He was born in Aston, Birmingham in 1865. According to the 1881 Birmingham Census Louis was aged 15 and lived with his parents at 136 Bordesley Park Road. He was employed as a polisher. Louis commuted from Birmingham to play football in Coventry. He was the subject of a complaint received by the Walsall Football Association, regarding a match he had played in for Rudge F.C. on 20/10/1894. That day Rudge beat Rose Hill F.C. (Handsworth, Birmingham) 6-0 in the Walsall Junior Cup First Round. The complaint was lodged by Windsor Street Gas F.C. (Birmingham). They claimed Louis, of Bagot Street, Birmingham, had been paid 15 shillings to play in the cup-tie, an amount in excess of expenses allowed to amateurs. The case was dismissed at the next meeting held on 30 October after Rudge officials provided sufficient evidence to justify the payment. Louis played in goal for Rudge F.C. against Singers on 1/12/1894. Rudge won 2-1. During the 1894-95 season he was first choice goalkeeper for Rudge and had Sam Casey as his understudy. Local football correspondent George Maley frequently heaped praise on Louis for his outstanding performances. He played for the Vocalists in the away league game against Berwick Rangers F.C. (Worcester) on 13/4/1895. A crowd estimated at 2,000 watched a 1-1 draw.
The MDT reported (25/2/1901): “Coventry followers of association football will hear with regret the death of Louis Benton whilst on active service in South Africa (Boer War 1899-1901). He was a native of Birmingham, where he lived before going to South Africa”. Louis was wounded in action during a battle at Bloemfontein, capital of the Free State Province. He was a member of the 6th Battalion Royal Warwickshire Regiment, part of the South Africa Field Force. His regimental service number was 1541 and he eventually died from disease on 24 January 1901. Bloemfontein housed a massive internment camp for Boer prisoners, including women and children. It contained 154,000 prisoners, of which nearly a third perished through disease. Louis qualified to be awarded the Queen’s South Africa Medal and the King’s South Africa Medal for his service during the Second Boer War. The Birmingham Boer War Soldiers Memorial was unveiled in Cannon Hill Park by Lieutenant-
General Sir Ian Hamilton, on 23 June 1906. It was sculptured by Albert Toft and has 513 names inscribed on it in alphabetical order. Louis’s name is the 41st inscription on the second panel.
ALLSOPP, goalkeeper
2 appearances
He previously played for All Saints F.C. (Coventry) between 1891 and 1894. Allsopp played for the All Saints against Singers Reserves twice during the 1893-94 season (MDT 29/12/1893 and 12/1/1894). He also played for West Orchard F.C. (Coventry) who competed in the Coventry & North Warwickshire League. He joined the Vocalists in August 1895 and played for the Singers Present XI against the Singers Past XI on 3/9/1895. The Present XI won 1-0. He made his league debut in the home match against West Bromwich Albion Reserves F.C. four days later. Albion won 6-2. Allsopp faded out of the first team picture with Teddy Kirk’s resurgence in form and the emergence of Arthur Robinson, who later established himself as an excellent goalkeeper.
JOSEPH “JOE” RICHARD WHITEHOUSE, half back
Singers F.C. 112 appearances, 1 goal
Coventry City F.C. 181 appearances, 5 goals
Joe was born in Birmingham on 7 December 1875. According to the 1881 Coventry Census he was living with his family at 2 East Street, Hillfields. His sister, Mary Ann, married William Henry Cashmore in Coventry in June 1889. Cashmore was the Principal Trainer for Singers F.C. Another sister, Jane, married Singers F.C. player Samuel Bullivant (aka Heath) in Coventry in November 1890. The 1891 Coventry Census states Joe resided at the family home, 50 Vernon Street, Hillfields and was employed as an iron turner in the bicycle trade. He married Rose Hannah Lewin on 11 July 1896 at Saint Peter’s Church, Hillfields.
Joe began his football career in 1891 with Saint George’s F.C. (MDT 19/11/1891), who played most of their games at Spencer Park, Earlsdon. The following year he joined Stoke (Village) F.C. who were headquartered at the New Inn public house, Lower Stoke. The majority of their games took place on a pitch situated in Bulls Head Lane. He also had a spell with Warwick United F.C. whom he joined in 1894. Joe signed for the Vocalists in
August 1895. He played for the Singers Present XI against the Singers Past XI in a practice match on 3 September. The Present XI won 1-0. He made his league debut in the home match against West Bromwich Albion Reserves F.C. four days later. Albion won 6-2. He scored his only goal for Singers in the league match against Kidderminster Harriers F.C. at the Stoke Road Ground on 27/2/1897. This game ended in a 1-1 draw. His last match under the Singers title was in the home friendly against Foleshill Great Heath F.C. (Coventry) on 30/4/1898. Singers won 3-0. The half back line of Whitehouse, Charlie Roberts and Charlie Lomas was regarded as the best ever fielded by the Vocalists. Joe’s first appearance as a Coventry City player was in the away league fixture against Wellington Town F.C. (Shropshire) on 3/9/1898. This was the first game under the club’s new title. City lost 5-0. His first goal for Coventry was in the away league game against Brierley Hill Alliance F.C. (Dudley) on 3/12/1898. City lost 2-1. He played in the first match held at the Highfield Road Ground on 9/9/1899. City beat Shrewsbury Town F.C. 1-0 with a goal by Mark Rideout. He scored his last goal for the club in the home league game against Halesowen F.C. on 14/3/1903. City won 4-3. In December 1903 he had a trial with Brierley Hill Alliance F.C. (Dudley) but nothing came of it. His last league match for Coventry was the home fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers Reserves F.C. on 2/1/1904. City drew 1-1. Joe’s career spanned nine seasons and he was awarded a Benefit Match for his loyal service. This was against Aston Villa Reserves at the Highfield Road Ground on 6/4/1904. City won 2-1. Gate receipts and other fundraising initiatives raised £69 for him, approximately £7,000 today (2025). His last appearance in a Coventry City shirt was in the friendly home game against Small Heath F.C. (later Birmingham City F.C.) on 30/4/1904. Coventry won 2-1 and Joe had a goal disallowed for offside. The 1911 Coventry Census states he was employed as an engine fitter.
Joe died aged 63 at his residence, 43 Burns Road, Stoke on 5 June 1939. His funeral service and interment was held at Stoke Parish Church, Walsgrave Road, three days later.
SAMUEL “SAM” WINDRIDGE, half back
3 appearances
He previously played for Foleshill Villa F..C. (Coventry) in 1893 and Foleshill Great Heath F.C. (Coventry) during 1894 and 1895. Sam joined Singers in August 1895 and played for the Singers Present XI against the Singers Past XI on 3 September. The Present XI won 1-0. He made his league debut in the home game against West
Bromwich Albion Reserves F.C. four days later. Albion won 6-2. His last appearance for the club was at the Stoke Road Ground in the league game against Berwick Rangers F.C. (Worcester) on 14/9/1895. Rangers won 1-0. He played for Radford Athletic F.C. (Coventry) in 1898. Samuel was born in Radford on 21/12/1876. The 1891 Coventry Census states he lived in Chinns Row, Radford and was employed as a bicycle machinist. He married May Gobbett on 12/11/1905 at Holy Trinity Church, Coventry. The 1911 Coventry Census confirms Samuel was licensee of the Town Wall Tavern public house, Bond Street, city centre. In 1914 he was summoned to appear in Court for permitting drunkenness on his premises on 8 February. His case was heard at the Coventry Police Court on 19 March. The Magistrate dismissed the charge due to insufficient evidence.
Samuel died aged 38 in Coventry on 28/8/1915 and was interred at Coventry Cemetery four days later. The Coventry Standard (29/10/1915) confirmed the licence of the Town Wall Tavern was transferred to May Windridge.
THOMAS “TOMMY” LOWE, right wing/inside forward/centre forward
24 appearances, 9 goals
He joined the Vocalists in July 1895. Tommy played for the Singers Present XI against the Singers Past XI on 3/9/1895. The Present XI won 1-0 and he scored the goal. He made his first team debut in the home league game against Berwick Rangers F.C. (Worcester) on 14/9/1895. Rangers won 1-0. Tommy played in the Birmingham Senior Cup 1st Round tie at Worcester Rovers F.C. on 5/10/1895. The Vocalists drew 1-1 and he scored our goal. His last goal for the club came in the league match against Hereford Thistle F.C. on New Year’s Day 1898. This game ended in a 2-2 draw and was his last appearance for the first team. He also made several appearances for Singers Reserves.
WILLIAM HENRY BEASLEY FESSEY, winger/inside forward
8 appearances
William was born in West Bromwich, Staffordshire on 31/1/1872. The 1891 West Bromwich Census states he was aged 19, employed as a railway carriage trimmer and lived at 4 Church Vale. He married Ellen Convoy in West Bromwich in 1895. He previously played for Brierley Hill Alliance F.C. (Dudley) and Oldbury Town F.C. William joined the Vocalists in the close season of 1895. He played for the Singers Present XI against the Singers Past XI on 3 September. The Present XI won 1-0. He made his league debut in the home game against West Bromwich Albion Reserves F.C. four days later. Albion won 6-2. His last game for the club was the away league match against Small Heath Reserves F.C. on 19/10/1895. A crowd estimated at 1,500 saw the Vocalists lose 4-0. William then re-joined Oldbury Town F.C. and stayed at that club for a year before moving to Shrewsbury Town F.C. in 1897. He was a much travelled player in his later career, having spells with Halesowen F.C. (1900), Oldbury Town F.C. (1901), Darlaston F.C. (1902) and Langley Saint Michael’s F.C. (1904).
William died aged 82 in West Bromwich on 19/8/1954. His grave is in All Saints Churchyard, West Bromwich.
ALFRED AUSTIN, centre forward
15 appearances, 7 goals
He joined the club in August 1895 and played for the Singers Present XI against the Singers Past XI on 3/9/1895. The Present XI won 1-0. Alfred made his league debut in the home game against West Bromwich Albion Reserves F.C. four days later. He scored a goal in this match which Albion won 6-2. His best individual performance was in the F.A. Cup 1st Qualifying Round game against Hereford F.C. at the Stoke Road Ground on 12/10/1895. He scored a hat-trick in Singers’ 6-1 victory. His last appearance for the Vocalists was on 23/11/1895 against Burton Swifts F.C. in a F.A. Cup 3rd Qualifying Round home tie. The Swifts won 2-0. Little is known about his later career except he joined Smethwick Wesleyan Rovers F.C. in September 1899.
WILLIAM S. SLATER, winger/inside forward
64 appearances, 10 goals
A product of Wordsley Olympic F.C. (Dudley). He played for the Singers Present XI in a practice match against the Singers Past XI on 3/9/1895. The Present XI won 1-0. William made his league debut in the home match against West Bromwich Albion Reserves F.C. four days later. Albion won 6-2. He scored his first goal for the club in the home league game against Wolverhampton Wanderers Reserves F.C. on 16/11/1895. The Vocalists lost 3-2. His return of 3 goals in 33 games during the 1895/1896 season was enough for him to be retained for the following season, where he performed much better, scoring 7 goals in 31 games. On 28/12/1896 he scored two goals in the league match against Redditch Town F.C. at the Stoke Road Ground. Town were hammered 5-0. He repeated this feat on 20/4/1897 in another home league game, when the Vocalists defeated Halesowen F.C. 4-0. This was probably his last appearance for the club, as a full team line-up is not available for the last fixture of the 1896-97 season, this being a friendly against Rudge F.C. nine days later. William later played for Halesowen F.C. (1897-1899) and Brierley Hill Alliance F.C. (Dudley) (1899-1901). He also made some appearances for Shrewsbury Town F.C. (1901-1904). He then joined Darlaston Town F.C. (Staffordshire) and was transferred to Willenhall Swifts F.C. (Staffordshire) in January 1906.
GODSALL/GODSELL, full back
1 appearance
He previously played for the Royal Artillery F.C. (Coventry). He played for the Vocalists in the league game against Hereford Thistle F.C. at the Stoke Road Ground on 30/11/1895. Singers won 3-2.
WILLIAM EDWARDS, inside forward
1 appearance
He previously played for Willenhall Pickwick F.C. (Staffordshire). His only appearance for Singers was in the home league game against Hereford Thistle F.C. on 30/11/1895. The Vocalists won 3-2. William joined Small Heath F.C. (Birmingham) sometime during 1896.
A. HEMMERSLEY, inside forward
58 appearances, 13 goals
He made his first team debut in the away game against Hereford Thistle F.C. on 7/12/1895. This was a Birmingham Senior Cup Third Round tie. The Vocalists won 3-1. A week later he made his league debut in the away fixture against Berwick Rangers F.C. (Worcester), which ended in a 2-2 draw. He was top scorer for the 1896-97 season with 10 goals from 32 games. Records suggest his last appearance for the club was in the league game against Halesowen F.C. at the Stoke Road Ground on 20/4/1897. He scored a goal in Singers’ 4-0 victory.
ARTHUR “NAT” CHARLES ROBINSON, goalkeeper
Singers F.C. 75 appearances
Coventry City F.C. 42 appearances
Arthur was born in Court 23, 10 Spon Street, Spon End, Coventry on 28 February 1877. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as living at Court 48, 4 Spon Street, with his parents and seven siblings. He was an outstanding goalkeeper, arguably the best to play for the club during the Singers period. Nat made his debut in the home friendly match against Clitheroe F.C. (Lancashire) on Christmas Day 1895. Singers won 5-1. His last appearance for the Vocalists was in the home friendly game against Foleshill Great Heath F.C. (Coventry) on 30/4/1898. Singers won 3-0. He was also a member of the Coventry City team playing under that title for the first time. This was an away league match against Wellington Town F.C. (Shropshire) on 3/9/1898. Wellington won 5-0. Eventually his brilliant performances “between the sticks” alerted Small Heath F.C. (later Birmingham City F.C.), whom he joined in the summer of 1899. Arthur was a member of the Small Heath team which won the Second Division Championship in 1901, having only conceded 24 goals. In total he made 306 appearances for the Birmingham club. He married Florence Beatrice Ballard in Coventry in 1904. During his career at Small Heath he was selected to play for the English Football League XI against the Irish League XI. The game was held in Belfast on 13/10/1906. A crowd estimated at 15,000 saw England win 6-0. In 1908 Ogden’s Tobacco Company issued a set of cards featuring famous footballers. These were inserted into packets of cigarettes and Arthur was featured on card number 37. He joined Chelsea F.C. (First Division) later that year but only stayed in London for one season. He signed for Coventry City prior to the 1910-11 season as cover for first-choice goalkeeper Robert “Bob” Evans, a Welsh international. That season he played in the 3-0 defeat at Portsmouth on 28/1/1911, his only Southern League Division One appearance. He also played in the F.A. Cup 3rd Round tie at Burnley (Second Division) on 25/2/1911. City lost 5-0.
Arthur retired from football aged 34 and became the licensee of the Old Ball Hotel, Walsgrave Road. He then acquired the licence of the Red Horse Inn, Barras Green in 1914. Coventry City were members of the Southern League 2nd Division for the 1914-15 season. Arthur came to the club’s rescue by playing five games, deputising for Sid Blake, City’s first-choice goalkeeper. This was between January and March 1915. City won four of those matches, which included a 7-2 home victory against Ton Pentre F.C. (Wales) on 13/2/1915. The solitary defeat was at Stoke where Arthur had to pick the ball out of his net on nine occasions! Coventry lost 9-1. His last appearance was in the home league game against Llanelly F.C. (Wales) on 27/3/1915. City won 1-0 in front of approximately 1,500 spectators. Arthur was the main catering supplier for CCFC for many years. This business was continued after his death by his daughter, Edna Bass. Arthur continued to play football at an amateur level for a team based in the Barras Green area. Prominent clubs at that time were Barras Green F.C., Barras Athletic F.C. and Barras House F.C. He also became a qualified referee and officiated in local matches. He was a member of the Stoke Philanthropist Society and his charitable causes earnt him the nickname of “Footballer Philanthropist”. Arthur also promoted boxing tournaments in Coventry to raise money for the Crippled Children’s Guild.
He died aged 52 at the Red Horse Inn on 15 May 1929. Such was his popularity over a thousand people attended his funeral, held at Coventry Cemetery (London Road) four days later. The roads leading to the cemetery were thickly populated by people long before the funeral cortege arrived. Among the mourners were former team-mates Bob Evans, Charlie Roberts, Fred Chaplin and former CCFC director, David Cooke. Coventry City was represented by directors Harry Oliver and Walter Young. Approximately one hundred floral tributes were laid at the graveside, which included a wreath from the Directors of Coventry City F.C.
FOLEY, half back
5 appearances
All of his appearances were during the 1895-96 season. He made his debut in the home league game against Stafford Rangers F.C. on 8/2/1896. Singers won 2-0. His last appearance for the Vocalists was in the away league game against Kidderminster Harriers F.C. (Worcestershire) on 29/2/1896. The Harriers won 1-0.
Note: County Express (25/10/1890) Foley, left full back for Wordsley Olympic Reserves F.C. versus Quarry Bank Unity F.C., County Express (3/10/1891) Foley, half back for Old Hill Wanderers F.C. (Staffordshire), MDT Monday 10/2/1896 Foley, half back, who has done service with Wordsley Olympic F.C. (Stourbridge) and County Express (24/4/1897)Foley (half back) for Brierley Hill Alliance F.C. (Dudley).
SAMUEL RENNIE “SAMMY” WESTON, winger
9 appearances, 3 goals
Sammy was born in Caverswall, Darlaston, Staffordshire on 19/10/1870. He married Amy Gough in Walsall in 1893. He played for Rudge F.C. between 1892 and February 1896 before joining the Vocalists. He played against Singers on 15/4/1893 at Rudge’s Red House Ground situated in Stoney Stanton Road. The Crow Laners achieved a famous 3-2 victory that day. He was captain of the Rudge team during the 1894-95 season. MDT Monday 7/1/1895: “Sammy Weston and his men opened the season with a visit to Liverpool on September 8th and were defeated 1-0 by the London & North West Railway team. Their first match at home was on September 15th against Bloxwich Strollers F.C. (Walsall) and won 2-1”. One of the highlights of that season was when Rudge won the Leamington Hospital Cup Final in Leamington on Saturday 13/4/1895. They beat Willenhall Pickwick F.C. (Staffordshire) 4-2 and Sammy scored two goals just before half-time. Prior to that he had a headed goal disallowed for offside. Rudge led 3-1 at the interval. He made his league debut for Singers against Stafford Rangers F.C. at the Stoke Road Ground on 8/2/1896. The Vocalists won 2-0 and he scored both goals. His last appearance for the club was in the home league game against Stourbridge F.C. on 25/4/1896. Singers lost 1-0. Sammy re-joined Rudge F.C. in the close season of 1896. He was signed by Progress F.C. (Coventry) in the close season of 1897 (Coleshill Chronicle 28/8/1897). The Weston family left Coventry in 1898 and Sammy joined Darlaston F.C. (Staffordshire). The Lichfield Mercury 16/12/1898: “Weston, from a breakaway put Darlaston In front (final Score Darlaston F.C. 2-1 Hednesford Town F.C.)”. The Weston family moved back to Coventry sometime between 1905 and 1911. The 1911 Coventry Census confirms they were living at 43 Sandy Lane, Radford. Sammy was employed as an engine fitter in the motor trade (most likely at the Daimler Company). The 1921 Coventry Census shows the Weston family resided at 29 Caldecote Road, Radford. Sammy was working as an engine fitter at the Daimler Motor Company in Sandy Lane. The 1939 England & Wales Register indicates he was a retired engine fitter residing at 62 Bridgman Road, Radford. Amy Weston died in 1942. Sammy moved to “Point Pleasant” in Old Milverton, Warwickshire. He died aged 89 at Breton Lodge Nursing Home, Leamington Spa on 9/2/1960.
SAMUEL “SAM” WRIGHT, inside forward/winger
61 appearances, 11 goals
He was born in Aston, Birmingham circa 1877. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as an apprentice machine miller (engineering) residing at 17 West Street, Hillfields. He started his football career at Saint Mark’s F.C. (Coventry) before playing for All Saints F.C. (Coventry) during the 1893/1894 season (MDT 2/2/1894). Sam made his debut for the Vocalists in the away league game against Stourbridge F.C. on 24/2/1896. Singers won 1-0 and he scored the goal.
WILLIAM WRIGHT, half back
He was Sam’s elder brother. William was born in Aston, Birmingham circa 1874. The 1891 Census states he lived at 17 West Street, Hillfields and was employed as a bicycle wheel maker. He previously played for Stoke F.C. (Coventry) and later for Progress F.C. (Coventry) in 1896. Between 1892 and 1897 William played approximately 23 Games for Singers Reserves and scored 3 goals. It appears he never played for the first team.
DILLON WATTS, right wing/forward
2 appearances
He joined the Vocalists in 1894 and mainly played for the reserve team. Coleshill Chronicle (22/2/1896): Singers Reserves – The Stoke Road club were engaged in a league match (Coventry & North Warwickshire League) with Stockingford F.C. (Nuneaton). Singers had a strong eleven, which included Dillon Watts, late (formerly) of Nuneaton Town F.C. He made his first team debut for the Vocalists in the home league game against Brierley Hill Alliance F.C. (Dudley) on 14/3/1896. Singers won 2-0. Dillon played for Foleshill Great Heath F.C. (Coventry) during 1896-97 season.
COPSON, half back
3 appearances
He was signed from Smethwick Carriage Works F.C. (Staffordshire) in the close season of 1896. Singers’ first practice match for the 1896-97 season was played on Wednesday 12/8/1896. Copson played for the Whites XI who beat the Reds XI 3-2. The match was refereed by Thomas Cashmore. A second practice match took place a week later (Whites v Reds). Copson played for the Reds who lost 2-1. On Saturday 5/9/1896 the Singers League XI played the Singers Junior Cup XI at the Stoke Road Ground. Copson played for the Junior Cup team. The game ended in a 1-1 draw. He never made a league appearance for the Vocalists but did play regularly for Singers Reserves.
HAYWARD/HAYWOOD, inside forward/centre forward
There are conflicting match reports regarding this player’s surname. Some reports name Haywood and others Hayward. Football Association records state Hayward.
Singers F.C: 44 appearances, 6 goals (1896 to 1898)
Coventry City F.C. 13 appearances, 3 goals (1898-99 season)
He commenced his football career with West Orchard F.C. (Coventry) before signing for Blackburn Rovers F.C. in August 1895, playing for the reserve team. He had spells with West Bromwich Albion F.C. (January 1896) and Crewe Carriage Works F.C. (February 1896) prior to joining Singers in the summer of that year (MDT 13/8/1896). Harry played in the away friendly game against Wolverton F.C. (Buckinghamshire) on 2/9/1896. He scored Singers’ goal in a 1-1 draw. Three days later he played for the Singers First XI in a practice match against the Singers Second XI. This game also ended in a 1-1 draw and he scored the goal for the First XI. He made his league debut at centre forward (and was captain) in the home match against Hereford Town F.C. on 12 September 1896. Hereford won 3-2. Harry played in the club’s last match under the Singers title at the Stoke Road Ground on 30 April 1898. This was a friendly game against Foleshill Great Heath F.C. (Coventry) which the Vocalists won 3-0. He was at inside left for Coventry City’s first league match under their new name. City lost 5-0 at Wellington Town F.C. on 3/9/1898. The following month he played in both F.A. Cup Preliminary Round games against Hereford Town F.C. Coventry drew 0-0 at home on 1/10/1898 and lost the replay 1-0. Harry made his last appearance for Coventry in the home league fixture against Hereford Thistle F.C. on 24/12/1898. City drew 1-1. Harry joined Bearwood F.C. (Birmingham) in October 1899. He may have made one appearance for Walsall F.C. during the 1900-01 season.
Note: Most likely Harry Hayward, born in Market Drayton, Salop on 4/9/1869. He married Alice Clancy on 21/3/1897 at Christ Church, West Bromwich. At the time of his wedding he was living at 38 New Street, Coventry. His first born child, Harry Clancy Hayward, was born in Stoke, Coventry on 27/2/1898. Harry senior was a Singers player at the time. His second child, Kathleen Frances Hayward, was baptised on 1/8/1899 at Christ Church, Summerfield, Warwickshire. Harry and Alice were living at 39 Saint Cuthbert Road, Birmingham when the baptism took place. Harry senior had left Singers by October 1899 and signed for Bearwood F.C. (Birmingham). The 1911 Census indicates the Hayward family resided at 329 Stony Lane, Smethwick,
Staffordshire. Harry was employed as a hydraulic lifting jack fitter. The 1921 Census names his employer as Tangy’s (Engineers) Limited, Smethwick.
Harry died aged 72 on 20/1/1942. His death was registered in Lichfield, Staffordshire.
WILLIAM CARPENTER, full back
5 appearances
William was signed from Brierley Hill Alliance (Dudley) in the close season of 1896 (Coventry Herald 21/8/1896). He played for the Singers First XI in a practice match against the Singers Second XI on 5/9/1896. The game ended in a 1-1 draw. William made his first team debut in the home league game against Hereford Town F.C. on 12/9/1896. Singers lost 3-2. His last appearance for the club was in the away league fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers Reserves F.C. on 17/10/1896. Approximately 1,500 spectators saw Wolves win 4-0.
JAMES H. “JIM” HARRIS, full back
Singers F.C. 70 appearances
Coventry City F.C. 90 appearances
James was born in Handsworth on 24/7/1873. According to the 1891 Handsworth Census he was aged 17 and lived at 4 Eastern Terrace, Chapel Street. He was employed as an iron turner. He was signed from Lozells F.C. (Birmingham) in the close season of 1896. From 1893 to 1895 he played for Oldbury Town F.C. and on three occasions played against the Vocalists. Two of those matches were friendlies held at the Stoke Road Ground: 27/12/1893 the Vocalists won 4-1 and 20/1/1894 Singers drew 1-1. On 5/1/1895 Oldbury Town F.C. won 3-2 at the Stoke Road Ground in a Birmingham & District League fixture. Jim played for the Whites XI in Singers’ first practice match of the 1896-97 season. Whites beat the Reds 3-2 on Wednesday 12/8/1896. A second practice game followed seven days later. He played for the Whites XI who defeated the Reds XI 2-1. On Wednesday 2/9/1896 he played for the Vocalists in an away friendly match against Wolverton F.C. (Buckinghamshire) which ended in a 1-1 draw. The last practice match took place three days later. Jim played for the Singers League XI against the Singers Junior Cup XI which resulted in a 1-1 draw. He made his first team debut in the home league game against Hereford Town F.C. on 12/9/1896. Singers lost 3-2. James married Alice Lapworth at Saint Peter’s Church, Hillfields, Coventry on 27/2/1898. At the time of his marriage he resided at 60 Yardley Street, Hillfields and worked as an engineering machinist. His last game under the Singers F.C. title was in the home friendly match against Foleshill Great Heath F.C. (Coventry) on 30/4/1898. The Vocalists won 3-0. Jim was a consistent performer at left back and has the distinction of playing in the first match under the Coventry City F.C. title. This was an away league fixture against Wellington Town on 3/9/1898. City lost 5-0. He also played in the club’s first match held at the Highfield Road Ground. This was a league game against Shrewsbury Town F.C. on 9/9/1899. City won 1-0 with a goal by Mark Rideout in front of a crowd estimated at 3,000. The 1901 Coventry Census states James and Alice lived at 34 Canterbury Street, Hillfields, the residence of Alfred Lapworth, Alice’s father. During the 1901-02 season, between 15 February and 22 March, Jim played at centre-forward and scored 3 goals in 5 games. His last game for the club was an away league fixture on 26/4/1902. City lost 2-0 against Shrewsbury Town F.C. According to the 1911 Coventry Census the Harris’s lived at 20 Gilbert Street, Hillfields. James was employed as a machinist/die turner at the Bretts Stamping Company situated in Harnall Lane, Hillfields. He still worked for this company in 1939 prior to the outbreak of World War Two.
R. BENTLEY, full back/centre half
7 appearances
He played for the Singers First XI in a practice match against the Singers Second XI on 5/9/1896. The game ended in a 1-1 draw. He made his league debut in the away match against Stourbridge F.C. on 10/10/1896. The Vocalists lost 5-0. His last game for Singers was against Hereford Thistle F.C. at the Stoke Road Ground on New Years Day 1898. This match ended in a 2-2 draw. Note: R. Bentley (full back) played for Singers Reserves during the 1896/1897 season (MDT 4/12/1896 & Coventry Times 10/3/1897). Match reports in the MDT suggest he later played for Daimler F.C. (Coventry) and Lord Street F.C. (Coventry).
J. WINDLE, half back
1 appearance
Some match reports name him as Winley. There is no-one with that surname living in Coventry according to 1891 & 1901 Census records.
Note: 1891 Coventry Census – John Windley, born in Soho, Staffordshire in 1872, lived with his brother, Thomas, at 33 Perkins Street, Hillfields and was employed as a bicycle fitter/labourer. The Coventry Directory (1896) confirms he still resided at this address. He played for the Singers First XI in a practice match against the Singers Second XI on 5/9/1896. The game ended in a 1-1 draw. This was his only first team appearance. He played several matches for Singers Reserves between 1895 and 1898 (32 appearances 2 goals). The 1901 Birmingham Census confirms he was living at 5 York Terrace, Aston and was employed as a bicycle maker/builder. By 1911 he had moved to 91 Manor Farm Road, Smethwick, Staffordshire. John emigrated to Quebec, Canada in September 1912 and lived in Toronto City. The 1921 Canada Census shows he was employed as an automobile mechanic and had obtained Canadian citizenship.
POWELL, inside forward
1 appearance
He played for the Singers First XI in a practice match against the Singers Second XI on 5/9/1896. The game ended in a 1-1 draw. This was his only appearance for the club.
GORDON, centre forward
4 appearances
His first appearance for the club was in the away friendly game against Wolverton F.C. (Buckinghamshire) on 2/9/1896. This match was played on a Wednesday evening and ended in a 1-1 draw, as darkness crept in. He played for the Singers First XI in a practice match against the Singers Second XI three days later. This game also
ended in a 1-1 draw. He made his league debut in the home game against Wellington Saint George F.C. (Shropshire) on 3/10/1896. This was a Birmingham Senior Cup First Qualifying Round tie. Singers won 2-1. His last game for the club was in the away league fixture against Stourbridge F.C. one week later. The Vocalists lost 5-0.
BUCKLEY, half back/inside forward
6 appearances
He made his league debut in the home game against Hereford Town F.C. on 12 September 1896. Singers lost 3-2. He then had a run of five games during November and December. His last appearance for the club was in the away league fixture at Oldbury Town F.C. on Boxing Day 1896. Singers thrashed Oldbury 6-0.
HARRY ARTHUR WHITEHOUSE, goalkeeper
Singers F.C. 3 appearances
Coventry City FC 128 appearances
He was born at Rotton Park, Birmingham on 7 April 1880 and educated at Five Ways Grammar School. Harry was an excellent all-round sportsman, representing his school as a rugby player, cricketer and athletics sprinter. Later on he played hockey for Coventry & North Warwickshire Hockey Club and represented the Warwickshire County team. Harry played football for Warwick United F.C. during seasons 1893-94 and 1894-95. The following season he joined Leek Wootton F.C. Harry was sixteen years old when he played for the Reds against the Whites on 12/8/1896, this being a trial/practice match for the Vocalists. Whites won 3-1. He then kept goal for the Singers Second XI against the Singers First XI in a practice match held on 5/9/1896. This game ended in a 1-1 draw. Surprisingly, Harry made his debut for the first team as a left winger in the home friendly match against Dresden United F.C. (Staffordshire) on 19/9/1896. The Vocalists won 3-0. A week later he played in the same position in the home league game against Brierley Hill Alliance F.C. (Dudley). Singers lost 2-0. These were his only appearances as an outfield player before establishing himself as an outstanding goalkeeper. Harry left school in 1898 and joined Bearwood F.C. (Birmingham). He received a leg injury in January of that year which forced him to stop playing football. He decided to concentrate on his business role at Bretts Stamping Company Limited, where he eventually gave 60 years service. He returned to football when he signed for Foleshill Saint Paul’s F.C. (Coventry) prior to the start of the 1901-02 season. His excellent performances helped his new club clinch the Coventry & North Warwickshire League Championship. Harry signed for Coventry City F.C. the following season. He made his debut at the Highfield Road Ground in the league match against Dudley F.C. on 22/11/1902. City won 3-0. He was club captain in 1906. His last game for Coventry was in the away league fixture against Stafford Rangers F.C. on 18/1/1908. City lost 5-1. Harry married Hilda Maude Cox in Coventry in 1914. Sadly she died aged 28 five years later. Harry was an accomplished violin musician and played in some local orchestras, and was a member of the Coventry Dramatic Society. His second marriage was to Gladys B. Sephton at Exhall Parish Church on 16/1/1924. Harry was a member of the Trinity Lodge of Freemasons and a batsman/bowler for the Coventry & North Warwickshire Cricket Club. He was also a former President/Life Member of Hearsall Golf Club. He lived in Earlsdon for many years and at the time of his death he resided at 9 Rochester Road.
Harry died aged 86 in Coventry on 26 April 1966. His funeral took place at Saint Barbara’s Church, Earlsdon, four days later.
CHARLES RICHARD DUNSBEE, centre forward
2 appearances
He was signed from Oldham Athletic in the summer of 1896 (Coventry Herald 21/8/1896). Charles played for Singers Second XI in a practice match against Singers First XI on 5/9/1896. The game ended in a 1-1 draw and he scored for the Second XI. He made his league debut in the away game against Wolverhampton Wanderers
Reserves F.C. on 17/10/1896. Approximately 4,000 spectators saw Wolves win 4-0. He played several matches for Singers Reserves during the 1896-97 season. Charles joined Arsenal F.C. in June 1899 and then signed for Dudley Town F.C. in October 1900. He finished his football career as a player for Soho Villa F.C. (Birmingham) having signed for them in October 1902.
ROWE, inside forward
6 appearances, 2 goals
He made his first team debut in the away league game against Wolverhampton Wanderers Reserves F.C. on 17/10/1896. Singers lost 4-0. He scored his first goal for the club seven days later in the away game against Berwick Rangers F.C. (Worcester). This was a Birmingham Senior Cup 2nd Qualifying Round tie which Rangers
won 5-1. His other goal came in the away league fixture against Aston Villa Reserves on 14/11/1896. The Vocalists drew 2-2 with Sam Wright bagging the other goal. He made his last appearance for the first team a week later in the away league match against Brierley Hill Alliance F.C. (Dudley). Singers lost 4-1. Rowe made several appearances for Singers Reserves during the 1896-97 season.
HOUSTON, centre half
1 appearance
He played for Worcester Rovers F.C. during the 1895-96 season. His solitary game for Singers’ first team was in the away league match against Small Heath Reserves F.C. (Birmingham) on 9/1/1897. The Vocalists lost 7-0.
W. BOTTRILL, centre half
2 appearances
He previously played for Lord Street F.C. (Coventry) (MDT 4/9/1896) and played alongside Charlie Lomas in the half back line. The Chapelfields-based club also had Herbert Chatland (forward) in their team. Bottrill played a few games for Singers Reserves before being called upon for first team duty towards the end of the 1896-97 season. He made his league debut for Singers in the away league game against Shrewsbury Town F.C. on 20/3/1897. The Vocalists won 1-0 in front of approximately 1,750 spectators. His other league appearance was against Small Heath Reserves F.C. (Birmingham) at the Stoke Road Ground on 10/4/1897. A crowd estimated at 1,200 saw Singers lose 2-1. Bottrill re-joined Lord Street F.C. in May 1897 and played many games for them up until 1899.
Note: 1891 Coventry Census – Possibly William Bottrill aged 15 (aged 20/21 in 1896), born in Coventry, employed as a bicycle liner and resided at 3 Ryley Street, city centre.
THOMAS DAVIS, centre forward
Singers F.C. 34 appearances, 12 goals
Coventry City F.C. 2 appearances, 1 goal
He made his league debut in the home game against Bristol Eastville Rovers F.C. on 4/9/1897. He scored Singers’ goal their 2-1 defeat in front of a crowd estimated at 2,000. Davis played in the last match under the Singers name at the Stoke Road Ground on 30 April 1898. The Vocalists beat Foleshill Great Heath F.C. (Coventry) 3-0. He scored two goals in that game. He joined Daimler F.C. (Coventry) in the close season of 1898. However, he made two appearances for Coventry City during the 1898-99 season. The first was in the away league fixture against Stourbridge F.C. on 8/10/1898. City won 3-2 and he scored a goal. His last appearance for City was in the home league game against Dudley F.C. seven days later. City drew 1-1.
SPICER, left wing
1 appearance
He previously played for Walsall Swifts F.C. He played several matches for Singers Reserves during the 1897-98 season. His only appearance for the first team was in the league game against Bristol Eastville Rovers
F.C. at the Stoke Road Ground on 4/9/1897. A crowd estimated at 2,000 saw Rovers win 2-1.
Note: Spicer (left wing) Coventry & Stoke United F.C. (MDT 16/11/1895), Spicer (inside forward) Coventry Early Closers F.C. (MDT 25/4/1896), Spicer (inside forward) Unity Villa F.C. (Coventry) (MDT 3/11/1897), G. Spicer (inside forward) Progress F.C. (Coventry) (MDT 10/2/1899) and Spicer (forward) Lord Street F.C. (Coventry) (Coventry Herald 15/9/1899).
POTTER, right wing
1 appearance
His only first team appearance was in the away game against Kidderminster Harriers F.C. on 2/10/1897. This match was a Birmingham Senior Cup First Qualifying Round tie. Singers lost 2-1.
JOHN WOODFIELD, right wing/inside forward
3 appearances, 1 goal
He joined Lincoln City F.C. in June 1897 but later signed for Kettering Town F.C. in November that same year. After a very brief spell at the Northamptonshire club, he joined Singers and made his debut in the away league game against Bristol Eastville Rovers on 4/12/1897. The Vocalists were thrashed 11-3. Seven days later Woodfield scored a goal in Singers 2-1 victory in the home league game against Wolverhampton Wanderers Reserves F.C. His last appearance for the club was in a friendly match against Aston Villa Reserves F.C. on 18/12/1897. This was played at the Stoke Road Ground and ended in a 1-1 draw.
CRADDOCK, goalkeeper
1 appearance
He played regularly for Singers Reserves during the 1897-98 season. His only first team appearance was in the league match against Brierley Hill Alliance F.C. (Dudley) at the Stoke Road Ground on Saturday 22/1/1898. The Vocalists lost 3-2 in front of approximately 1,100 spectators. MDT football correspondent Monday 24/1/1898: “No-one could blame Craddock for the goal which made matters even. I cannot say the same in regard to the second point (goal) gained just prior to half-time”.
G. BENTLEY, half back/right wing
10 appearances, 2 goals
He made several appearances for Singers Reserves during the 1896-97 season. He made his first team debut in the home league game against Halesowen F.C. on 12/2/1898. The Vocalists won 2-1. A week later he scored a goal in Singers’ 3-0 win at Hereford Thistle F.C. His last match for the club was under the Singers F.C. title prior to the name change to Coventry City F.C. Singers beat Foleshill Great Heath F.C. (Coventry) 3-0 at the Stoke Road Ground on 30/4/1898 and he scored one of the goals. He played for Lord Street F.C. (Coventry) during the 1898-99 season (MDT 13/1/1899).
