The oldest surviving goalkeeper from England and former Luton Town player has passed away.
Ron Baynham, aged 94, made 434 appearances for the Hatters and was honored as a “legend” by the Premier League club.
Born in Birmingham, Baynham played for Luton Town from 1951 to 1966.
The Hatters expressed their sorrow on social media, stating: “It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing of goalkeeper Ron Baynham.”
Former Luton Town Football Club goalkeeper Ron Baynham in action. Credit: Luton Town Football Club
The national team also shared their condolences on X: “We are saddened to learn that former Three Lions goalkeeper Ron Baynham, who earned three international caps in 1955, has passed away at the age of 94. Our thoughts are with Ron’s family.”
Although he excelled in football, Baynham initially aspired to be a cricketer. His journey into football began when his brother organized a local team and placed him in goal.
He continued in that role during his National Service and was later noticed by a scout from Wolverhampton Wanderers, who invited him for a trial at Molineux.
Baynham declined the offer but joined Worcester City in the Southern League after completing his military service.
After two years with Worcester, he was invited for a trial at Kenilworth Road and subsequently signed with Luton Town, then in Division Two, in November 1951 for a fee of £1,000.
The Hatters achieved promotion to the old Division One in 1955, and that autumn, Baynham earned his first international cap as England triumphed over Denmark 5-1.
One of his most cherished moments was representing the Hatters in the 1959 FA Cup final, despite the team losing to Nottingham Forest.
After suffering injuries, including a fractured skull and damage to his muscles and tendons, he retired from professional football in 1965.
Following his retirement, he worked as a painter and decorator and also at Luton Airport before settling in Silsoe, Bedfordshire.
Baynham was consistently regarded as a “welcome guest” at the Hatters, as noted in the club’s tribute, and his numerous half-time appearances on the pitch continued to be well-received by the fans.
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