Everyone at Rotherham United has been deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former player and League Cup finalist Barry Webster, aged 88.
Born in Sheffield, Barry joined the Millers in 1956 having cut his teeth with Sheffield FC - in the tough Yorkshire League at just 16-years-old – and Gainsborough Trinity and enjoyed a five-year stint at Millmoor and a period which he described to family members as ‘the highlight of his life’.
He was signed from Gainsborough Trinity by Rotherham and made his debut in September 1956 against Blackburn Rovers - his direct opponent was a former England left back, Bill Eckersley -but it wasn’t until start of 1957/58 season that he became regular outside right after the departure of the legendary Jack Grainger.
Barry’s achievements in Rotherham United colours included over 200 appearances and he boasted the honour of being the club’s top goalscorer in his first two seasons with the club, which was no mean feat for a right winger.
He scored the goal in the 1-1 FA Cup replay against Arsenal at Highbury in 1960 when the attendance was the highest a Millers side have ever played in front of - 57,598 – but his soon-to-be success in cup competitions would go on to see his name etched in club folklore.
The jewel in the crown of his time with the Millers came in 1961 when he and his teammates firmly engrained their names into the Rotherham United history books when they reached the first ever League Cup final.
After making 201 appearances with 41 goals he was sold to Bradford City in June 1962.
After injury, he left two years later but continued to play in non-league football, initially with Buxton and later at Norton Woodseats in both the old Yorkshire League and the County Senior League including as player-manager. He also ran a Sunday League side.
During his time in the Army in his earlier life, he played for the British Army team and a colleague in the team was Ray Wilson, England left back in the 1966 World Cup win.
A keen cricketer, Barry played at a decent level and in later life played bowls for Laycock Engineering where he worked latterly.
Barry will forever be remembered as one of the heroes who reached the first ever League Cup final and a fine player from one of Rotherham United’s truly great eras on the pitch.
The thoughts of everyone at Rotherham United are with all of Barry’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.