By Club Historian Peter Lane
Once again I am very sad to report of the sudden death of another ex-Posh favourite and friend, ELLIS STAFFORD, who passed away on Wednesday 31st October 2007.
Born in Sheffield on the 17th August 1929, Ellis signed for Posh by Manager George Swindin from Scarborough in June 1954 and previously played for Lincoln City. He made a total of 182 appearances for Posh in the Midland League and 14 FA Cup matches from 1954-1960 - scoring eight goals.
His debut for Posh was on 21st August 1954 against Rotherham United Reserves (Midland League) 1-1, scoring our goal at the unusual Centre Forward position for that day. Manager George Swindin was once quoted as saying "Ellis was the Best Man he ever signed for the Club", a testimony for Ellis's service.
Ellis then played a further 17 games in the Football League playing in Posh's first ever Football League match 1960 against Wrexham, plus one League Cup game until 1963. Ellis played mainly at right back although he could play in any position requested, playing in every position except Centre Half for the Club. He also made numerous appearances for the Reserves (both non-League and Football League). From Posh he joined Corby Town but returned to us in 1968 both as Pools and Commercial Manager for a further 20 years.
I remember Ellis as a great character always having a smile and a laugh and time for anyone, giving his knowledge and advice on the game and later his recollections. He always gave 101% as a player and never shirked duty - as tough as they came. Ellis leaves a lovely wife, Eileen and two Brothers, George, who also played with him in the Midland League and Ted.
A CREDIT TO THE CLUB ~ Always Remembered ~ God Bless R.I.P. Ellis.
