We are devasted to have learned of the passing of legendary goalkeeper John Swannell yesterday following a heart attack.

Swannell, who would have turned 85 next week, was arguably the finest amateur goalkeeper in England's history, having gained 61 England amateur caps, and made 594 appearances for Hendon during their most successful era, mostly between 1963 and 1974.

Highlights of John's career at Claremont Road include three appearances in FA Amateur Cup finals, including the successes in 1965 and 1972, both Isthmian League league titles, being part of the Barassi Cup winning side in 1972, and, of course, playing in the famous 1-1 draw at Newcastle United in January 1974.

John was able to join us at Silver Jubilee Park in 2022 for the reunion of the surviving members of the 1972 Amateur Cup winning side.

He will be extremely fondly remembered by all those lucky enough to have seen him in action, and the thoughts of everyone at the club are with John's friends and family at this sad time.

The club will be marking John's memory before the game against Tiverton Town on Saturday 3rd February.