WHITAKER, William
Centre-half; 6', 12-3.
b. 7.10.23, Chesterfield.
d. 29.8.95, Chesterfield.

Clubs:
Tapton School Old Boys.
CHESTERFIELD: pro., 8.42. 13 FL apps.
FAC: 2. War comps: 167.
Middlesbrough: £9500, 6.47. 177 FL apps, 1 goal.
King's Lynn
Gainsborough Trinity: signed cs.55.
Creswell Colliery: signed 7.57.

Billy joined Chesterfield on amateur forms in April, 1942, his status as a 'Bevin Boy' allowing him to stay and play, rather than be sent overseas in His Majesty's forces. Tall and commanding, he lost his place through injury and was a reserve when Middlesbrough stepped in to break the record for a fee received by Chesterfield.

The club had a number of quality centre-halves on their books and could afford to cash in on his promise. Knee ligament damage hampered the rest of his professional career, but, when fit, he was an important member of a good Boro' side, and represented the Football League against the Irish League in 1950. Upon joining Gainsborough, Billy returned to a job down the mines.