Brighouse sporting stalwart Ken Elkin dies, aged 73

Ken is survived by his widow Wendy, son Nigel, daughter Nicola and granddaughter Megan.

He first met Wendy then aged 14-years-old at Bailiff Bridge Youth Club where he and lifelong friend William `Sugar’ Sandham started a football team that played in the Brighouse and District League in the U-16s section.

“We were unbeaten for two seasons and got to the final of the Halifax Minor Cup at The Shay but lost 2-1 to Ripponden United who had at the time Frank and Bob Worthington playing for them,” said William.

“After the game Ken and Clem Walker got trials at Huddersfield Town along with Frank Worthington and his brother Bob for Halifax Town.

“Following on from the U-16s we moved into the U-18s that played on a Saturday morning while also playing for Clifton Rangers at 17-years of age on a Saturday afternoon.”

Ken later moved on to Lane Head for Saturday afternoon football and Wharfe and Sun Inn, Lightcliffe on Sunday mornings in the old Brighouse and District Sunday morning league. He also later coached and managed at Clifton Rangers Juniors.

Ken was also a former Brighouse Cricket Club treasurer and committeeman.

His funeral for close family will be on Monday, but his son Nigel said there would be a celebration of his life organised when the restrictions for the current movement of people and licensed premises were once more open to the general public.