2nd December 1896

Macclesfield, Cheshire

Goalkeeper

A consistent and regular performer between the sticks, Harry Bailey played for Exeter City between 1923 and 1927. He joined the club from Luton Town and later played for Brentford where he was to become a long-serving turnstile operator. 

When still at school Harry was keeping goal in the evenings against ‘all comers’ at a local fairground before, as 15-year-old, he played one season for a St Albans team who were undefeated all season. Joining the Grenadier Guards at sixteen in 1913, he played cricket and football for regimental sides before playing for Millwall during the Great War.

Signing for Luton Town in time for the 1919/20 season, Harry went on to make 82 League outings for the Hatters ahead of moving to Exeter City in the summer of 1923. 

Making his debut for the Grecians in the opening game of the season at Newport County on 25 August 1923, Harry immediately established himself as he made 41 league appearances during 1923/24 and 42 in 1924/25.

Remaining at St James' Park for two futher seasons - when he featured in 32 and 28 league games respectively - Harry was challenged for the goalkeeper's jersey at various times by Sydney Pavey and Ossie Randall. 

Leaving St James' Park during the summer of 1927 to sign for Brentford, Harry added another 44 league appearances before having a spell with Thames FC where he had 29 Third Division South outings prior to the club withdrawing from the Football League.

Subsequently turning out for Tunbridge Wells Rangers, Harry Bailey died in Hammersmith, West London in 1965.

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