19th June 1924

Dover, Kent

Forward

Fred Durrant appeared for Exeter City during 1949. He joined the club from Queens Park Rangers and later played for Dover Athletic. Potentialy an exciting signing for City he suffered badly from injury during his time at St James' Park. 

Durrant was starring for Kent non-leaguers, Folkestone, when signed by Brentford in May 1939. Unfortunately his career came to halt for the duration of the Second World War, although he did go on and make four league outings for Brentford, scoring three goals in 1946-47. He was snapped up by Queen’s Park Rangers for a fee of £5,000 in September 1946 and his goals per game ratio continued to be impressive with 26 netted in 51 league appearances.

It was regarded as something of a coup when Exeter City obtained his signature in February 1949, and he made his debut for the Grecians in a 1-1 draw at Swindon Town. He ended the season with four goals in 13 matches. He struggled to win a first team place in 1949-50 though, and only netted once, (on the opening day against Crystal Palace) in four league games. He was sidelined for the rest of the season after the removal of two cartilages form his left knee in November 1949.

In the summer of 1950, Durrant returned to Kent to play for Dover. Durrant undertook a player-manager role upon joining Dover and remained in the role after retiring from playing. He had a successful time with the club, winning the Kent League and Senior Cup double in the 1951–52 season and the Kent League Cup in 1956–57. After football, Durrant settled in Dover and ran a cafe.

Fred died on the 5 March 2010.

Exeter City league games

17

5