Spence, Dick

Dick Spence

Clubs played for: Barnsley, Chelsea (1932-1948)

Born: 1908

Birthplace: Hoyland

Position: Winger

Biography: A nimble winger who arrived from Barnsley for £5,000 in October 1934. The 19 goals that he scored in his debut season quickly made him a firm favourite with the Stamford Bridge crowd. His sixteen years service saw him become one of only two players to play for the club on either side of World War 2 when he served in the Met Police. He later recovered from a broken leg to become the oldest player ever to play for the club at 39 years and 57 days. The record still stands today! Stayed on at the club for two decades after hanging up his boots, working with the juniors and 'A' team and was a regular at games right until his death in March 1983 aged 74.

Do you have any interesting, happy, or humorous memories of Dick?
If so, please let us know and we will be happy to share them with the world!

Spence, Dick He was my great grandad. Never had the chance to meet him although have a great relationship with my Grandad (his son) Eric who was a promising young Chelsea star in the under 18s before deciding to join the military instead of pursuing football.

He’s the reason that I’m a life long supporter of Chelsea, unfortunately I never inherited his football skills!! Just slicked back hair style!!
31-01-22 Jack Spence

Spence, Dick As a young boy we lived opposite Dickie and his wife in Northolt and we often played street football on the grass outside the houses (this would be 1960 to 66 maybe ?) and we knew that Dickie was a Chelsea Youth Trainer so we were always trying to show our skills thinking that we would get spotted ! I attended a Trail for CFC (66/67 ?) at Mitcham and Dickie refereed the game and recognized me ! Didnt do me any good though LOL. I got a ball in the nuts after 5 minutes and didnt fancy it after that ! Sad when he passed away in 1983, we had moved away by then.
03-11-21 Denis Oates