I spent 2 weeks in the summer of 67 at my aunts home near Dalkey. They mentioned their “insurance man” had played for Everton. A few days later he called. I’d no idea whom he was but nervously waited outside and when he’d done his business I asked for his autograph. He was absolutely lovely to me- asking how long I’d been a Blue.. first game- favourite player etc… I felt really important thanks to him. What a lovely man he was that day to a 11 year old Blue. I have never forgotten his wonderful kindness and only wish I knew where that autograph went??? I will purchase this book as I was even then aware he was something of a star player from the past- but now I know he is a true legend!!

Hi Professor Peach. What a lovely anecdote, which is consistent with other stories I've heard about this great man. Thanks for sharing - and enjoy the book! Rob

Love the picture, Peter flanked by Dave Hickson and John Willie Parker, proper shin pads.

I was privileged to see this wonderful player albeit in a mediocre Blues team & am delighted his life & footballing times are being chronicled by a worthy writer.
In that era he was one of a number of elegant, stylish 'inside forwards' who carried a goal threat but provided also provided the ammunition for the likes of Dave H.
These guys had intuitive footballing brains; no substitutes allowed & no detailed instructions based on magnetic discs on pitch plans.
Sighs deeply.
I will get someone to get it as a surprise Christmas present.

I had the priviledge of watching Farrell, Eglington, Hickson and Labone over the years at Goodison and must say that it was a pleasure to do so. This article brought me good memories. Dave Hickson often used to get on the same bus as me on matchdays at Old Roan and I saw Brian Labone on a daily basis when he was going to training as he used get a lift in with Brian Harris from Maghull after Brian had been in to get his fag supply in our shop.

Thanks for reminding me and many others about Peter, who was a bit more rotund when I watched him than the photo in the piece shows him.

But happpy days all the same.

I was also able to speak to Peter Farrell when he came to my Aunt’s house in Bray, Co. Wicklow to collect an insurance payment. A delightful and memorable encountered.
Don’t forget Don Donovan, another gifted Irish Evertonian.
In those days “exotic foreign players” came from Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

Peter Hodgson: 'Dave Hickson often used to get on the same bus as me on matchdays at Old Roan'.

For someone a tad younger, Peter's almost casual line here sums it all up for me of what footy once was and what it is now.

We have lost so much. And perhaps that is why we are so enthused when a player builds a real rapport with the lasses and lads who pay to watch.

Lovely trailer/preview for the book Rob.

Where would we be without you and the good doctor and George?

By the way I should have been clear at 5 above that the Brian getting his fag supply at our shop was Brian Harris not Brian Labone who didn't smoke, as far as I know anyway. Sorry if I confused anyone.

Any particular brand, Peter?
Tipped or untipped?

It is such a long time ago Dennis that I can't remember I'm afraid. In those days I'm not sure that tipped were around or were popular even if they were around at all.