Talk by Derek Kettlewell: The growth, development and decline of football in the Upper Calder Valley

How did the new sport of “Socker” become established within the Upper Calder Valley, and why has the area no football teams of note currently? The talk will explore the challenges faced in developing the game as well as the footballing highlights provided by such teams as Hebden Bridge, Portsmouth Rovers & Luddendenfoot, and the notable players from, and visitors to, the area.

Derek Kettlewell is an enthusiastic researcher into the histories of both football and Rugby League, with a particular focus on sport at a grassroots level. He lives in Hebden Bridge and is a member of HBLHS. He is a supporter of Farsley Celtic FC and a former supporter of the now defunct, Bramley RLFC.

Image courtesy of Pennine Horizons