It was with some trepidation that I journeyed north at the behest of my editor to Liverpool. After a long and tiring train journey I alighted at Lime Street Station and was immediately struck at the bustling, chaotic nature of the city, the strange discourse of its natives and the aggressive competitiveness of the various costermongers and hackney cab drivers.
It was with some relief when I managed to board an omnibus, it duly weaved its way through some of the less salubrious quarters of the city until I could alight at Sir Gordon Clegg’s spacious, well-appointed mansion overlooking the River Mersey.
Upon entrance I was ushered into a book lined study by one of his faithful retainers. The prints and photographs on display were a testimonial to Sir Gordon’s humble origins, subsequent success as a philanthropist, entrepreneur and impresario; in most recent times he has won renown as the main shareholder of St Domingo Football Club.
Sir Gordon greeted me with a firm handshake, it was clear that despite his advanced years he retained a keen intelligence, vigour and a streak of exhibitionism that betrayed his background in the popular entertainment form of music hall.
After being served with drinks by the butler Sir Gordon regaled me with tales of his early childhood, the grinding poverty, a family so poor that they couldn’t afford rags to bind together to make a simple football. Yet through dint of hard work and application Sir Gordon had prospered beyond his expectations.
A veritable modern Sir Samuel Smiles! His passion for association football was apparent, this was nurtured from an early age as he accompanied his father to games on the old bone shaker. Sir Gordon has never forgotten his humble origins and remains a ‘man of the people’ with the ‘common touch’.
And yet dear reader gratitude is in short supply, in recent weeks Sir Gordon has been challenged by the notorious ‘Blue Gang’. At the mere mention of the words his countenance darkened and I could detect a care-worn expression beneath his well-groomed features. ‘A band of ne’er-do-wells, rapscallions and scoundrels,’ fumed Sir Gordon, as he recovered his repose he gazed wistfully over the receding tide of the river.This band of malcontents have accused Sir Gordon of being antediluvian and outdated, he bridled at accusations that rivals Bootle F.C. (popularly known amongst fans as the ‘purple effluent’) have surpassed his beloved St Domingo. ‘Do they want me to pay players like Newton Heath?’ he enquired. I’m happy playing in Stanley Park, who needs a stadium? What next? Cross bars, goal nets?’
Just a Sir Gordon’s normally jovial visage darkened considerable we were interrupted as the governess and nanny entered with his twelve children. Sir Gordon duly dispensed their weekly allowance and then collected it all back in as donations to his charitable foundation. I must mention that some unscrupulous newspapers have questioned the accounts of this organisation but I hesitated to enquire lest I offended Sir Gordon or abused his generous hospitality.
As the children left Lady Clegg entered the room and Sir Gordon explained the purpose of my visit, it was as though a chill wind had blown across her gracious features and she raised the corner of her perfumed handkerchief to her eye. With great care and attention Sir Gordon ushered her out. It was apparent that the actions of the notorious ‘Blue Gang’ were beyond the comprehension of such a refined and sensitive creature.
I knew at this point that I had overstayed my welcome, even the few short minutes I had spent in Sir Gordon’s company were an intrusion upon his valuable time. I therefore made my excuses and prepared to leave. Sir Gordon has a most generous heart and as I departed he insisted that I receive as gifts memorabilia of his beloved St Domingo, there was the promise of hospitality at a future game and he plied me with tickets for the best seats for his music hall concerts.
I have to question whether association football will transfer to other parts of the realm. It stirs unnatural passions, if not violent extremes that are inimical to the English character. On the other side it gives young men healthy exercise, promotes local prestige and inspires loyalty to the club. I can only hope that Sir Gordon secures victory.
