Ashington-born Joe Conroy, a resident at Pennington Court Care Home in Beeston, recently enjoyed a visit back to his old stomping ground of Elland Road, home of Leeds United FC — the club he proudly represented during the 1950s.
Joe’s connection to football runs deep. Growing up in Ashington, Northumberland, a town famous for producing football legends like the Milburn brothers and the Charlton brothers, Joe was fortunate to know Jack and Bobby Charlton personally, as well as their family.
Sissy Charlton, Jack and Bobby’s mother, was a key figure in the football community, and helped arrange for scouts from Leeds United to see Joe play at a young age, kickstarting his journey to professional football.
At just 15 years old, Joe moved to Leeds to pursue an apprenticeship at Leeds United, joining the club’s ground staff and training alongside the first team during an era managed by the likes of Raich Carter and Major Buckley. Joe’s dedication was evident in his work as a boot boy, cleaning boots for players like John Charles, and his talent saw him secure games for Leeds United Junior team.
Though his football career was interrupted by National Service, where he played for an Army team stationed in Wales, Joe remained connected to Leeds United, returning on weekends to play. Unfortunately, a knee injury and the need to get regular paid work as his family grew, cut short his time playing for Leeds United.
The recent visit to Leeds United was arranged by Leeds United Foundation after they were approached by Pennington Court Care Home staff keen to help Joe celebrate his footballing history.
Westward Care also co-ordinated getting a football signed by former player Eddie Gray and a 1950s replica shirt which now takes pride of place in Joe’s room at Pennington Court.
The tour included a visit to the dressing rooms, a chance to hold the Championship trophy, and meeting representatives from the Leeds United Foundation.
Reflecting on the experience, Joe said:
“It was absolutely wonderful to be back at Elland Road after all these years. The hospitality was fantastic, and it brought back so many memories from my playing days. It’s something I’ll cherish forever.”
Peter Hodkinson, Managing Director of Pennington Court Care Home, emphasised the importance of celebrating the lives of residents like Joe:
“Celebrating the stories and life achievements of our residents is a powerful way to connect with the people we care for.
“Joe’s visit to Leeds United was not just a trip down memory lane, but a celebration of his talent as a footballer. Moments like these remind us how vital it is to connect with our residents’ pasts and keep their stories alive.”
Sophie from Leeds United Foundation helped co-ordinate the visit for Joe, his family and a few other residents from Pennington Court Care Home.
“We were delighted to welcome Joe and his family and friends and hear about his time as a young man with Leeds United Football team.
“It was a very special day for our staff to meet with Joe and give him a personal tour and hear about his stories of playing and working here in the 1950s.
“With Pennington Court located so close to Elland Road it’s great to connect with our local community and celebrate the stories our community hold about LUFC and its history.”
This post is based on a press release issued on behalf of Westward Care
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