Former trophy-winning Mexborough footballer makes triumphant return to old grounds

A former football player in Mexborough scored big when he was invited to return to the Montagu Cup Final as a special guest.

When the team at Care UK’s Montagu Hall, on Harlington Road, received the invitation for 80-year-old Bob Bennett to return to his old stomping grounds at Mexborough’s Hampden Road, they set to work.

Bob was born in West Melton, but raised in Wath and Wombwell, where his interest in football first began. Following in his father Ellis Bennett’s footsteps, a former footballer and manager in the Yorkshire league, Bob played for various teams throughout his early years, including Wombwell FA and Mexborough Town. 

He first began playing for Denaby as a centre-back after leaving Wombwell remaining at the club for 16 years before retiring due to an injury in 1975. He participated in two Montagu Cup finals in 1971and 1972, with Denaby crowned as winners in both.

On the day of his special trip, Bob was joined by former football players and friends Paul Butterfield and Malcolm Godfrey at Mexborough’s Hampden Road – where the finals have been taking place since 1897 – to watch the showdown between Wickersley CC and The Gate Inn.

To make the day even more unforgettable, Bob was given the opportunity to return to the pitch after 51 years and meet fellow former Denaby players Pete Pettit, Mal Whitehouse, and Trevor Gough. 

Bob said: “I was surprised to have been invited, but it was wonderful going back. I have always loved football and have made so many connections through my love of the sport. “

Following his football retirement, Bob taught Physical Education at Mexborough Grammar School, where he led the team to many successes, including winning the English schools under 19's competition in 1973. His pride and joy now lies in his happy marriage with his wife Cynthia, with whom he shares two children, Robert and Anna, and two grandchildren, Henry and Maya. 

The visit was part of Care UK’s Wishing Tree initiative, which encourages residents to put their dreams forward, allowing them to reconnect with a past hobby or try something completely new. From flying a plane to enjoying a fish and chip supper, no wish is too big or small for the team to try to grant.

Charlie Parker, Home Manager at Montagu Hall, said: “We know how much playing for Denaby means to Bob, so being invited to the final was incredibly special for him. As soon as we heard about the opportunity, we knew he had to be there.

“It was a real privilege to accompany Bob on the day and see just how much it meant to him. Watching him cheer on the team – with such a huge smile on his face – was truly priceless.

“We’re incredibly grateful to the Montagu Cup Federation for making the day so memorable for Bob and giving him an experience he’ll treasure.”

Montagu Hall provides full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to lead active and fulfilling lives, while also promoting independence, the home incorporates plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies, including a cinema, hair and beauty salon and café.