Happy 99th Birthday to Trevor Hitchen

Today we celebrate the 99th birthday of Trevor Hitchen, the oldest living former Southport player and manager, the oldest living former football manager, and the seventh oldest former professional footballer in the country.

Trevor holds a unique place in Southport’s history. Appointed as “Players’ Manager” in 1958, he took responsibility for every aspect of the playing side at Haig Avenue, from players and coaches to even the groundsman. Although he could only recommend signings to the directors, his infectious enthusiasm shone through. At the club’s Annual General Meeting he promised supporters “eleven fighters capable of lasting the full ninety minutes” though the financial restrictions of the time made building a squad with both fitness and flair a challenge.

Trevor’s time in charge brought memorable moments. Early home form raised hopes, but results on the road proved elusive. Yet he was always resourceful, famously arranging for the team coach to detour via his mother-in-law’s home in Shropshire on the way to Exeter, where she laid on a meal for the players to save the club money.

After being replaced as manager in January 1959, Trevor accepted the decision with characteristic dignity, continuing to serve as assistant before leaving to focus on his newsagent’s business. He later devoted decades of service to Formby FC as player and chairman, while remaining a regular and popular visitor at Haig Avenue.

His contribution was formally recognised when he was inducted into the Southport FC Hall of Fame on 16 November 2019. As player number 782 in the club’s heritage list, Trevor will always be remembered as one of Southport’s most genuine servants.

Everyone at Southport Football Club and across the wider football family sends their warmest congratulations to Trevor on reaching this incredible milestone.

Happy Birthday, Trevor.