Note that this page is from our Gresley Rovers archive. It may not be related to the new Gresley Rovers (formerly Gresley FC until 2020).
Johnny Boulton
Johnny Boulton
It is with sadness that we have to report the death of Gresley Legend Johnny Boulton who died yesterday.
Our sincere condolences go to his family. Johnny made his Gresley debut against Coalville Town (h) on 10th September 1952 and played his final game against Eastwood Town (h) on 1st February 1969
His Gresley record was 311 appearances scoring 210 goals. Johnny also played in many friendlies for the club.
He was top scorer:
1962-63 18 league and 8 cup goals (joint)
1964-65 40 league and 3 cup goals
1966-67 37 league and 4 cup goals
John represented South Derbyshire Schoolboys in the English Schools Shield when he was only 11 yrs old - the youngest player ever to do so, and made his Gresley first team debut at the age of 15.
He signed professional forms with Burton Albion at 16 yrs old and was then called up for his National Service 2 yrs later.
John returned to Gresley in 1956 but after just 2 months the Suez Canal crisis temporarily robbed Gresley of his services.
He then signed for Chesterfield but after 1 season he went back to Burton Albion.
Brian Clough brought a full-strength side for John's testimonial on 23rd April 1968.
Gresley lost 2-1.
