Westbury Harriers - The Early Days

These words have been taken from The Westbury Harriers 75th Anniversary Club History Book, compiled by Peter Griffin.

Athletics started seriously in Bristol in 1882 with the formation of Bristol Athletic Club, but it was as early as in the turn of the century that those living in the village of Westbury-on-Trym found traveling into Bristol difficult and Home fixtures seemed like Away fixtures by the time they arrived.  Even in the early 20's, the village was completely isolated and surrounded by fields, and after leaving Chock Lane there was hardly a house or cottage to be seen until arriving at Manor Farm (now Horfield Common when traveling East).

The local lads, therefore, used to train together and run through the village streets.  A Club photograph taken as early as 1913 shows the proud village members with W H on their vests so that they could be distinguished from the others.  As GEORGE PYKE (85) recalled - if you had two good legs it was your duty to run, and they did.  The Cobbler - ARTHUR FISHER, the Postman - BILL CARNELL, the Milkmen - BILLY SMITH and TED LOVE; yes, and even the Curate -'TROOPER' BARTLETT (clad in shorts and clerical collar) were regular members of the village pack.

Under the guidance of ALBERT 'NOBBY' CLARK (senior) they trained regularly, using an old Pavilion/Summer House on the lawn behind the 'White Lion Hotel' as a Changing Room.  The whole area is today the Car Park, and their washing facilities used to consist of a tin bath of water, luke-warm if they were lucky.

It was in 1924 that a 40 year old veteran member called GILBERT WALKER thought it would be a good idea if the village boys were to form their own Club.  He decided to call a meeting for anyone interested and booked a room at the 'White Lion Hotel' for a Friday night.  

... continued in More About Westbury Harriers

Read also about The Westbury Harriers Crest,  Westbury Harriers' Partnership with Yate AC