Eric Redrobe is 80 today
So sang the Meadowend to Big Red who was born this day in 1944.
Having played Rugby League for Lancashire schoolboys. Eric made the decision to play football and originally signed for Bolton Wanderers before making his name at Southport where the bustling centre forward attracted the attention of Colin Addison who was looking to bolster his stuttering attack.
Hereford United paid £6000 in 1972 for Redrobe and while not being a prolific scorer, Eric quickly became a fans’ favourite with his “all action” style. He had a season at Bath City in 1976 before a return to Edgar Street the following season.
After football, Redrobe became a bailiff and is now retired living near Wigan.
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| Redrobe At Edgar Street In 2013 |
Redrobe was a guest of a group of supporters to a game at Edgar Street in March 2008. A look back:
Big Eric was very pleased to be back in Hereford.
"As I walked from the City centre, down Widemarsh Street towards the ground I felt a buzz. It was just like the days when we had our pre-match lunch in The Spread Eagle then walked the same route...the memories came flooding back.
"They were great times, we had a wonderful bunch of players who just loved playing the game."
He was asked who was the best player during that period.
"No-one, we were a team, everyone played their part. We all knew our job; mine was to create havoc in the opposing penalty area. I remember when Colin (Addison) signed me. In my first game, we played Northampton Town at home. After the game, I was talking to Pete Isaac and asked him how I'd done. He said they were a bit concerned because it was over thirty seconds before I clobbered their keeper."
The Bulls won 2-0 and Eric had a hand in both goals. Redrobe had arrived.
There were plenty of characters in those days.
"Oh
yes, Harry Gregory was always up to something. One day he arrived with
lengths of cloth for suits...just £6 each then he produced some leather
coats. You just knew not to ask to many questions. The coats were
very good though!"
Eric watched the game from a seat in The Merton Stand and was asked to make the call for the Man of The Match award.
"I'm impressed with Beckwith and McCombe. They look very solid but as a
fully paid up member of the Centre Forwards Union it has to be Gary
Hooper, he looks a very capable young player."
After the game Eric joined the throng in the VP Club where he was quickly back into
reminiscing mode as he re-lived his time at Edgar Street. After a
couple of small white wines he and his wife were offered a lift back to
their hotel.
"No, drop us by Marks and Sparks so we can walk through the City."
Quite clearly, they had a warmth and affection for
Hereford.
Thanks to Matt Healey for the main picture.