Jarvis Len Image 1 West Ham United 1905

Description

Grays, Essex born wing half Len Jarvis was working at a Grays cement works when a West Ham United scout saw him playing for a local football club. Manager Syd King signed Jarvis in 1903 and he made his debut in the Southern League against New Brompton on 2nd April 1904.

At the start of the 1906-07 season was marred by a game against Millwall. The East Ham Echo reported: “From the very first kick it was seen that there was likely to be some trouble. All attempts at football were ignored.” According to the report, Len Jarvis smashed Alf Dean against a metal advertising board. Dean was so badly injured he was unable to continue. The Stratford Express commented: “This caused a deal of feeling between the sides.”

Jarvis was cautioned by the referee for his tackle on Alf Dean but a subsequent investigation by the Football Association resulted in the player being suspended for 14 days. The supporters were also criticised for the fighting that took place in the stands. West Ham was also forced to post warning notices about future behaviour at home matches. After scoring 5 goals in 140 appearances for The Hammers Jarvis was transferred to First Division Bury in 1909. He made his Football League debut at Bristol City that September and spent 3 seasons at Gigg Lane, making 59 appearances, before leaving after their relegation in 1912.