21 Bovey Tracey Mar 26_Layout 1 26/03/2014 09:40 Page 33
and long serving player
Blast
FROM THE
past
player, but not before
completing his clean sweep of
playing in all leagues and at all
levels when he came on as a
substitute for Elmore in the last
20 minutes of their South Western
League encounter at home to
St Austell – a match they won
2-0 (one of the goalscorers that
day was none other than present
day Elmore manager, Peter
Buckingham). It was Ray’s
only appearance in the South
Western League.
“The club presented me with a
platter to commemorate my 20
years as a player,” said Ray.
Ray, with the East Devon Senior Cup,is held aloft
by his teamates. Below Ray (white socks) in action.
But Ray’s greatest memory was of the
night in 1972 that Elmore won the East
Devon Senior Cup (see page 27).
“I was proud to captain the side that night
as we overcame the overwhelming
favourites Dawlish to win the cup. I
remember being hoisted aloft by my teammates with the trophy in my hands – it was
truly a night to remember (see above).”
When asked if he would like to have played
today Ray said emphatically ‘Yes’ “The
.
game has changed over the years but for
the good. I would have loved to have
played with today’s ‘soft’ ball and one
without laces!”
Most of his life Ray worked as a painter
and decorator.
He said: “I retired at the age of 65 but felt
restless. I wanted to keep busy so I came
out of retirement and I still work part-time
doing maintenance at Blundells School.
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