Tommy Hodgson

Tommy Hodgson Date of Birth: Jan 19, 1903

Born in Hetton-Le-Hole, Co Durham in 1903, Tommy was brought south by West Ham in 1921.

A full-back, who could play on either side, he was, as befitted a former coal miner, tough tackling but also added poise and leadership to the Hammers rearguard although a succession of injuries cut back his appearances.

His former teammate, George Kay, who was by now manager of Luton brought him to Kenilworth Road in 1930 where he was soon made captain but after only 74 starts a knee injury brought an end to his career.

Becoming a successful licensee, Tommy was invited onto the Luton Board in 1954 and led the managerless Town out at the 1959 FA Cup final. Made Chairman in 1964, he eventually relinquished the position to Tony Hunt who immediately made him President.

Tommy who was therefore player, captain, director, chairman and president at one club must surely hold a unique position in English football! Retiring to the south coast in 1984, Tommy passed away in the New Forest in 1989.