Lionel Thring

Lionel Thring

Born in Uppingham in 1862, Lionel was the son of John Charles Thring who was part of the group who formulated the ‘Cambridge’ rules of the game in 1848 which were adapted and adopted by the FA 15 years later.

As second master at Wellingborough Grammar School, Lionel had played for the school side against the Town and when he became the first Headmaster of Ashton (Dunstable) Grammar School in 1888 the club were quick to secure his services.

A full-back by choice, Lionel could also get forward as witnessed by a hat-trick against Chesham in the FA Cup in November 1888. He continued to be a regular in the side until 1891 when professionalism was adopted leaving him to concentrate on his teaching.

Lionel retired in 1921 after 33 years as head and passed away in Martock, Somerset in 1934.