Jimmy Forbes

Jocularly known as ‘Tiny’ (belying his long, lanky frame), Jimmy was the eldest of eight born to a blacksmith’s striker at Walker Naval Shipyard. Called up into the Navy in World War I, he served in Ethiopia and Somalia before returning to play for Walker Central. He joined Blackpool after only six appearances in Midland League football with Scunthorpe. He impressed playing against Southport’s Midweek League team. Signed for £100, he was transferred to Bolton Wanderers for a similar sum, having been listed at his own request. His 15 League games saw Southport concede only eight goals — arguably the best record of any centre-half — while he scored two League goals and also netted in a friendly against Mold. He sought a move after being upset by spectators’ remarks while failing to strike his best form at home as the ground did not suit his style of play. He had more success at Bristol Rovers where he made 59 appearances in two seasons, scoring four goals. Known for his distinctive voice, he proved quite a character but died when only 43 of tuberculosis, contracted originally in Africa; he was the sixth and last Southport League player to die before the outbreak of World War II.

Profile reproduced with Permission from:
The Sandgrounders: The Complete League History of Southport F. C., by Michael Braham and Geoff Wilde (Palatine Books, 1995). ISBN 978-1-874181-14-9