Raymond’s dedication to Emley AFC, began with his time on the Committee from approx 1971 until 1982. During this period, he was instrumental in guiding the club’s growth from a fledgling Yorkshire League side to competing in the NCEL by 1982.

(Photo from 1982 - Raymond is pictured fourth from the right).

His tenure saw Emley claim 4 Yorkshire League titles, 3 Sheffield Cups, and 3 Yorkshire League Cups. In the mid-1970s, Raymond took on the role of Groundsman, working alongside Club President Eric Moorhouse.

He quickly built a reputation for maintaining a high-quality pitch, which was key in attracting Huddersfield Town for regular friendly matches. His skills and dedication to the role didn’t go unnoticed, and in the mid-1980s, he accepted the position of groundsman at Huddersfield Town’s Leeds Road stadium, a role he held until his retirement in the early 2000s.

In 2005, he came out of retirement to care for the pitch once again. Even after stepping back, he remained a loyal supporter, attending games until recent years when his visits became less frequent.

Born in 1931 in Flockton, Raymond moved to Emley after marrying his wife, Rita, who was from the village. They had one daughter, Lisa, who married Robert Ellis—himself a distinguished groundsman, serving at Huddersfield and later at Croke Park in Dublin, Ireland’s national rugby stadium.

Raymond’s leaves behind a lasting legacy at the club he loved so dearly. Our condolences to Raymond’s family and friends.