The Life and Death of Leigh Roose, Sportsman and Soldier

Speaker: Spencer Vignes
Leigh Roose

In 1914 Leigh Roose, the first superstar of modern day football, went off to join the war effort serving in the Mediterranean and France. Like millions of others the former Stoke, Sunderland and Wales goalkeeper would die. Unlike millions of others nobody knew how or where – until now. This talk lifts the lid on Leigh's remarkable life, his war service in the YMCA and 9th Royal Fusiliers, plus the mystery that surrounded his death amid the horrors of the Somme. The story of how one man became caught up in a global catastrophe – one that would cost him his life, his identity and his rightful place as one of football's all-time greats.

Members and non-members of The Western Front Association are equally welcome. Any new visitors are guaranteed a friendly atmosphere and a warm welcome from a group of like-minded enthusiasts.

Event organiser: Midlands (East) branch
10 October 2025 19:30 to 10 October 2025 21:30
St Peters Rooms, Ruddington, Notts NG11 6HD
Branch contacts
John Beech
(Branch Chairman)
Email John Beech

Other upcoming events for Midlands (East) branch

03 Mar 26
13 March 2026

The Royal Artillery 1914-1915

Read more
04 Apr 26
10 April 2026

Travels With a Tiger – Riding the Western Front

Read more
05 May 26
8 May 2026

Comparing the Somme 1916 and the Battle of Arras 1917

Read more
06 Jun 26
12 June 2026

The All Arms Battle and Manoeuvre Warfare – British Airpower 1917

Read more
07 Jul 26
10 July 2026

August 1914 – A Supply Column and the Total Chaos of Mobilisation

Read more
08 Aug 26
14 August 2026

The Attack at Fromelles 19th/20th July 1916

Read more