Thu 10 Jul - Posted in Breaking News
Time to read: 1min
A restoration of the headstone of former Derby County goalkeeper John 'Jack' Kirby’s grave has been completed.
In October 2024, local historian Kalwinder Singh Dhindsa set up a fundraising page, with the aim of raising £1,500 to go towards the restoration.
Donations arrived from around the world and work on the grave – which had become weathered over time – has now concluded.
Kirby represented the Rams between 1929 and 1938 after arriving from Derbyshire-based Newhall United.
After making his debut during the 1929/30 campaign when the club finished second in the First Division, Kirby went on to make a total of 191 appearances, with 173 of them coming in the league.
Born in South Derbyshire on 30th September 1909, Kirby is known for being a member of the Derby squad that toured Germany in 1934 and defied the authorities by refusing to give a stiff-arm salute before each game.
After leaving the Rams, he became player-manager of Folkstone Town in Kent, before departing just before the start of the Second World War in 1939.
Kirby passed away on 15th June 1960, at the age of 50, and was buried at St Peter's Church in Netherseal, Derbyshire.
Derby County would like to thank Kalwinder for his efforts in restoring the headstone and everyone who donated for their generosity in helping to recognise Kirby’s legacy.
