'Henry' Roy Brown

There was a boom in football just after the Second World War. Many British league clubs began signing players from abroad, particularly the Empire and Commonwealth. During the 1950s and 60s Africa became a favoured destination for scouts.

A number of professional Anglo-Indian players emerged at this time, including Ricky Heppolette, Kevin Keelan, Roy Smith and Bud Houghton whose families all moved to Britain after Indian independence in 1947.

One of the very few black professionals of his day, 'Henry' Roy Brown played for Watford from 1953-1957 as centre-half, winger and centre-forward. He was distinguished for his speed and heading ability and his only hat-trick was the club's first at home in the League for 8 years.  His brother became Lord Mayor of Stoke on Trent.

Photo: Illustrative image for the ''Henry' Roy Brown' page

Comments about this page

Jimmy Jones; ? ; Johnny Meadows?; Maurice cook; Ernie Bateman; Reg Saphin; Dave Underwood; Phil Nolan; Ralph Oelofse?; Jimmy (Tug) Wilson; Bill Shipwright; ? ;Pat Molloy; Tony Hapgood? ; ??? Brown; Dave Bewley; Eddie Smith; Jimmy Kelly; ? ; Frank Mitchell; Tommy Paterson?; Johnny Paton; Les Thomas; ? ; ? ; ? ; ? ; ? ; ? ; ? ; ? ; ? : Len Goulden; Roy Brown; Clive Chattin; Jimmy Bowie.

By Mrs Judy Tyler
On 12/12/2006

missing players names.next to jimmy jones charlie galogoly irish full back . following jimmy kelly is tommy eggleston .Not sure of both surname spellings.

By pearson
On 11/08/2008

Ralph Oelofse in the photo is correct, he was my father - born Roelof Oelofse who previously played for Chelsea, was also a Springbok and played for South Africa

By Shani
On 01/03/2010

Ralph (Roelof) Oelofse is my uncle. He is my mother's brother (born Elsie Oelofse). I have always been very proud of his achievements as a sportsman and a fantastic family man. He is sorely missed.

By Jackie
On 14/07/2010

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