Profile: From north-east mining stock, Jimmy Lodge signed for the club using the name he had always used, James William Barrass, having unbeknowingly been orphaned when less then 6 months old and raised as part of his maternal grandparents family. His true identity came to light at the end of his first season with the club when he decided to marry and his true background was revealed. Playing in either full-back position, he was fierce in the tackle and was known for not giving ground to an opponent without a struggle. His bravery on the field of play came as no surprise for he had displayed even greater bravery in the field of battle gaining the Military Medal in 1915 which was followed bar a Bar to MM for his contribution to the Battle of the Somme in 1916. He was also awarded the DCM and Bar for his efforts in other battles during the Great War. Jimmy was indeed a great survivor as he fought at some of the bloodiest battles including Ypres, The Somme, Ypres (again) and Passchendaele over the 3 years from October 1914. His football career started as an amateur whilst working as a miner. After representing various Army teams during the Great War he returned to the north east to play as a semi-professional for Newburn and was soon spotted by the Tigers. After 5 years with the club he spent 7 months playing for Halifax, Nuneaton and York before the then manager, Bill McCracken, brought him back to the club as, firstly, reserve team coach. Jimmy then qualified as a masseur and physiotherapist and remained with the club until his death working in these capacities, in later years on a part time basis. He established himself as an honest and likeable man, always willing to help out in any capacity - even treating players from Huull FC, HKR, Yorkshire CCC and the Scottish ballet over the years!! Jimmy was Hull City through and through and proud to be so. Indeed, that pride was reciprocated by the club who made several presentations to him to mark milestones in his career with them, culminating in a Testimonial match. Very few "club men" have had Sir Stanley Rouse (then President of FIFA) and Alan Hardaker (Secretary of the Football League) attend their funerals, such was the reputation of one of the gentlest and quietest of gentleman who ever served any club, let alone Hull City. |
