South Yorkshire Times March 24, 1951
Kilnhurst’s Youngest Ever Makes Soccer History at Elland Road
At 3.10 p.m. on Saturday, Kilnhurst-born Peter Vickers made soccer history. When he took the field at Leeds United’s Elland Road ground he became, at 17, the youngest player to turn out for the club. He is also KiInhurst’s youngest-ever professional footballer.
It was a great occasion, and everyone concerned went out of their way to make it a “red letter” day far the boy soccer experts are predicting will force his way to the forefront of England inside forwards.
His League debut was preceded by an encouraging loudspeaker announcement and a shoal of congratulatory telegrams. There were three from the West Riding and Leeds Football Associations, one from Rotherham Boys’ team also from Mr. L. Bolton, Leeds United chairman, Mr.O. Stamp, Rawmarsh Welfare F.C. secretary, and from his sister in hospital, Miss Nancy Vickers. But perhaps the telegram he will most treasure came from Kilnhurst Colliery P.C. —his “home team” and first club.
The Forerunner.
Mention of the occasion was also made in Leeds United’s programme. It stated “Peter Vickers reached his 17th birthday recently and I am sure we all wish him many happy returns on reaching his ‘ football majority,’ which is the age when a young man can sign professional forms should he wish to do so. I am pleased to say that young Peter chose to sign the necessary forms and is now a registered professional with Leeds United. ‘ Good luck,’ Peter, and may your first big game to-day be the forerunner of many happy days at Elland Road.”
The game was watched from the stand by Peter’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. T. Vickers, his sisters, Miss Pat Vickers and Mrs. D. Millington, and by his brothers and sister-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Steve Vickers and John Vickers.
Although the heavy conditions, were against him, Peter had a good game and showed no signs of nervousness. Afterwards, he had his photo taken with Leeds United manager Major F. Buckley, and received a programme autographed by the club directors. He then returned to Kilnhurst with his family.