LOFC Tribute

Leyton Orient Football Club has a proud history, none more so than when O’s players, staff and officials, along with supporters joined-up en masse into the 17th Middlesex – The Footballers’ Battalion in the early months of the Great War. It is well documented that three Clapton Orient players – as the Club was known at the time, lost their lives during the Battle of the Somme in 1916 – William Jonas, Richard McFadden and George Scott. Thirteen others were wounded, including the goal-keeper Jimmy Hugall who was wounded three times, including once in the eye and yet he resumed playing football after the war.

Clapton Orient’s example, lead to other clubs around the country also joining-up, at a time when the very future of professional football was in doubt, due to the dissatisfaction shown be so many supporters who asked why football had continued whilst war raged in France and Belgium. It is beyond doubt that the formation of the Footballers’ Battalion went a long way to sway public opinion.

The 17th Pals’ Battalion Band proudly commemorates those brave footballers and in particular the Clapton Orient lads who enlisted without hesitation and took the lead.

It is good therefore that Leyton Orient acknowledged the 17th Pals’ in its match-day programme, when a full page was given for a comprehensive write-up and photos, possibly giving the band one of its biggest media opportunities. Talk amongst those coming on the O’s Somme Tour in 2018 is that they are looking forward to once again seeing the band play on the Somme. Due to the continued growth of interest in the band, the 17th Pals’ are due to perform on the pitch at the Matchroom Stadium on 21st April, during the half-time break, in the match between the O’s and Wrexham. This performance will rank alongside performing at Thiepval and the Menin Gate with the band playing in front of its biggest crowd – to date!

Please see the separate report of the performance on the pitch…