HUGHIE PRATT

Hughie Pratt, a man who rubbed shoulders with a World Cup winner
EVERYONE connected with Hitchin Town will be saddened by the passing of Hughie Pratt, who was a member of the club’s successful team of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Hughie died recently aged 80 after suffering from dementia. Up until his illness, he was a regular visitor to Top Field and enjoyed talking football with regulars. Occasionally, he was accompanied by his former team-mates Roy Cutler and the late Bernie Gogan.

Born on October 11, 1943 in Wrexham, Hughie was arguably one of the most informed and articulate players ever to have put on a Hitchin shirt. University educated and a school teacher by profession, he was also very fit and played well beyond veteran age. His football career was very notable and included a spell in the US with San Diego Toros. It was at NASL club San Diego that Hughie played alongside a World Cup winner in the form of Vavá who featured in both of Brazil’s victories in 1958 and 1962.

He was brought to Hitchin by Vince Burgess and made his debut on September 7 1968 as a substitute against Oxford City at Top Field. A versatile, compact player, he could play as a half back or in defence. He became an important part of the 1968-69 side that finished runners-up in the Isthmian League and a year later, won the London Senior Cup.

Hughie made 301 appearances for Hitchin and scored 12 goals. He had also played for Stevenage Town and, appropriately, Corinthian Casuals. He was made a member of the Hitchin Town Hall of Fame some years ago.

Anyone who met Hughie invariably referred to him as a gentleman and a thoroughly decent man who was an advocate of fair play. It goes without saying that he will be sorely missed by his family and friends.

Neil Jensen