The Green Howards Museum - 30 January

On Friday,  I had the privilege of visiting the remarkable new exhibition at The Green Howards Museum, Battle Bowlers & Football Boots, and I can honestly say it is one of the most powerful and engaging exhibitions I have seen.

This exhibition tells the extraordinary story of the sporting and military lives of Green Howard footballers, weaving together football, service, sacrifice and community in a way that is both deeply moving and genuinely fascinating. From the legendary Wilf Mannion, to the rise of women’s football, to football in prisoner of war camps, and the incredible story of Donald Simpson Bell VC, the only professional footballer ever to be awarded the Victoria Cross. Every element has been curated with immense care, respect and imagination.

Marking the 110th anniversary of Donald Bell’s heroic actions and his death just five days later, this exhibition is a powerful tribute to courage, teamwork and resilience. It is informative, emotional, and at times uplifting. A real credit to everyone involved.

My heartfelt congratulations and thanks go to Jude Boal, Head of Commercial, Zoe Utley, Head of Collections, and the truly amazing Marie Woods, CEO, along with the entire museum team. Your passion, dedication and attention to detail shine through every part of this exhibition. You should all be immensely proud.

This is an exhibition of national significance, right here in Richmond, and I would encourage everyone to visit. It opens on 31st January and runs throughout 2026 and entry is included with your museum ticket.

Richmond is incredibly fortunate to have such a world-class museum and such a committed team bringing our history so vividly to life!