Bradford City's heroes of World War Two: Ernest Tuckett

The only full-time City player to lose his life in World War Two was Ernest Tuckett. Born 1 January 1914 at Lingdale, near Guisborough. An inside forward, he began his career with Giusborough Brigantes Juniors, before joining Scarborough. At only seventeen he signed on amateur terms for Arsenal on 27 June 1932.

He was farmed out to the Gunners junior club Margate, where between 1934-35 he made 76 appearances, scoring no goals.

Ernie returned to Highbury, where he made two appearances at centre half in 1935. His debut coming at Wolves in a 2-2 draw. He signed professional forms on 17 March 1936.

He joined Bradford City on Friday 12 February 1937. The transfer was an exchange involving City player Lawrence Scott and £1500. Ernest made his debut the following day when City beat Coventry 1-0 at Valley Parade. He quickly made his mark, scoring twice on his second appearance at home to Barnsley. In all he made 14 appearances for City, scoring 4 goals. His final game came on 8 January 1938 in the FA Cup against Chesterfield. He joined Fulham on 8 April 1938 - initially on a one-month trial. The move was a success, however, Ernest had made only one appearance for Fulham when war broke out.

He joined the RAF, serving as a Corporal, but managed to make five wartime appearances for Fulham between 1941-43. He married Ester Nugent at Guisborough in 1941. Their marital home was 5 Raby Road, Redcar. Ernest died of pulmonary tuberculosis at Stanhope Sanatorium on 27 May 1945, aged 31. Tragically, he’s buried next to his father, also Ernest, who died in the final month of the First World War. They are buried at Boosbeck St. Aidan’s Churchyard, Cleveland, two miles south of Saltburn.

Thanks to Chris Ambler for additional information.