Neandra Etienne who organised a Black History Month exhibition on black footballers reports on recognition of one of the stars.

The ceremony was attended by Jack’s grand-daughters Lesley, Lyn and Gillian, and great great-nephew George, alongside other members of the Jack Leslie Campaign. Jack’s granddaughter Lesley said: “I am delighted that Newham Council erected a plaque to honour Grandad in recognition of his footballing career. It is heart-warming to know that he is finally getting the recognition he deserves.”

©2021 Andrew Baker. 19thNov 2021 Plaque unveiling for Jack Leslie, first black football player selected for England, but the FA had a rule that prevented any black player, playing for England. Photograph © Andrew Baker PR Hand Out.

Jack Leslie was featured in the Newham’s Black Football Players through the Years exhibition for Newham Black History Month at the Canning Gallery in Canning Town. Jack, from Canning Town, was picked to play for England in 1925. However, his name was dropped from the team sheet when officials discovered his Black heritage.

Sadly, Jack was never given the opportunity to play for England again. At the time of his death, in 1988, Jack’s England call up was never acknowledged.

It wasn’t until the Jack Leslie Campaign got involved in 2020 that his story was finally told. They successfully campaigned for Jack to receive a statue in Plymouth, because he played for Plymouth Argyle football team. Jack’s blue Heritage plaque was organised for him to be remembered in Newham, the borough where he was born and where he worked when he was a Boot Boy at West Ham United FC.

Gillian, Jack’s granddaughter said: “It’s just a shame he’s not here to experience everything that’s being done in his honour. I’d also like to thank everyone involved; we never thought anything like this would ever happen.”

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