We learned with immense sadness on Monday, 26th August, of the death of George Jagger, a genuine club legend. George represented our predecessor clubs, Wellington Town and Telford United, with great distinction and was the fourth inductee into the club’s hall of fame in 2009.
George, 82 years old at the time of his passing, was not just a player; he was a much-loved character who remained a town resident and established a window-cleaning business in partnership with his former teammate Alan Blackburn. His popularity and recognisability during his playing days continued long after he had hung up his boots, forging a lasting connection with the community.
George played in both the Wellington Town and Telford United eras, holding a regular starting position between 1966 and 1972.
George started his career in 1960 with Houghton Main FC before signing for Barnsley in June 1963. He made forty-two appearances and scored two goals before leaving to sign for Corby Town in 1963. He signed with Wellington Town in the summer of 1966 and helped bring great success to the club.
Between 1969 and 1972, the club made two successive FA Trophy final appearances. With George in the team on both occasions, they were defeated in the inaugural Trophy final at Wembley in 1970, losing 2-0 to Macclesfield, before returning the following season to win the competition. Trailing 2-0 to Hillingdon Borough, the Lillywhites recovered to win by a score of 3-2.
George made a significant contribution, with forty-eight appearances and six goals, and the team also won the Southern League Cup that season.
George’s swarthy looks, replete with a dark mop of hair and a full beard to match, gave him an air akin to a non-league George Best, although without the same reputation. However, it was George’s ability on the field that earned him admiration and respect across the Southern League.
He was awarded a benefit match in 1971, the programme for which is shown below.
George’s health had deteriorated recently; however, he attended Telford matches as recently as last season, coming to the league match with Leamington with his good friend and former Telford colleague Mickey Fudge.
He also recently attended the funeral of former club secretary Mike Ferriday, and friends report that although it was a sad occasion, they greatly enjoyed reminiscing about times past with George.
We wish to pass on our warmest best wishes to George’s family, friends, former colleagues, and anyone who remembers George fondly.
We also say ‘thank you, George’ for serving our town’s football club with such style and renown, creating memories that will live on in the hearts and minds of so many, and for being such a well-known figure in our wider community.
George’s family have now confirmed details of his funeral, which will be held at Telford Crematorium at 2.30 pm on Tuesday 24th September.
Image used with kind permission of Dave Bagnall Photography.
