You never know what to expect when you arrive at the local golf club, and one day a few weeks ago was no exception. I was approached by Charles Freeman, a member of Kingsdown Golf Club, Box resident, and editor of the Box and Corsham magazine, who invited me to write an article titled ‘Box Person of the Month’ about Arthur Noble.

Arthur Thomas Noble was born on 15 March 1950 in a nursery home in Liverpool, to the delight of his Mother Dorothy (known as Dot), Father Sydney (known as Syd), and his sister Valerie, who was three years older.

Around the age of 12, Arthur developed a fascination with trains, particularly those travelling along the overhead railway track from Liverpool to Southport. He fondly recalls chatting with the ticket master and engaging in train spotting. The Liverpool Overhead Railway (LOR) and the Southport branch of the Lancashire & Yorkshire Railway (LYR) were elevated railway lines connecting Liverpool to Southport. The LOR, locally known as the ‘Dockers’ Umbrella,’ was the world’s first electrically operated elevated railway.

Sport has been a lifelong passion for Arthur, influenced no doubt by his father’s love of football and cricket, with the latter being enjoyed by the family as spectators over the weekends. Arthur’s father also supported Manchester United football team, while Arthur was a diehard Everton fan from day one, a rivalry that surely sparked lively debates at home. Arthur’s bedroom, adorned with football posters, was a constant reminder of his sporting dreams.

Arthur’s grandfather, Tommy Noble, was an amateur boxer and played football with Joe Mercer for Ellesmere Port. Both Tommy and Joe were invited to trial for Everton, but Tommy was deemed too small to succeed.

By age 10, Arthur was a regular supporter of Everton F.C., attending matches at Goodison Park whenever he could. His enthusiasm for sport carried over to school, where he excelled in football, playing right wing for his school teams and contributing significantly to their success. His school reports often noted that if he showed the same dedication to other subjects as he did to sport, he would have excelled academically. Still, he enjoyed maths, history, woodwork, and metalwork.

Arthur’s claim to fame during primary school was his appearance in a TV advert for Persil washing powder, filmed on Whitehedge Road, Liverpool. The scene featured schoolchildren crossing Whitehedge Road under the guidance of a lollipop lady in a gleaming white coat, with Arthur and another pupil eagerly running to catch up—likely to be imagining himself sprinting down a football pitch.

In his spare time, Arthur delivered newspapers and helped the milkman with deliveries using a horse and cart, earning pocket money. When not working, he played football with his friends, including Ian Caldwell and the twin sons Malcom and Dave of Billy Liddell, a Liverpool and Scotland football player. Arthur’s mother often struggled to differentiate between the twins when they visited and was therefore unable to advise Arthur who called to see him.

In 1958/59, the family acquired a television, and Arthur and his father would gather every Saturday to watch football scores and mark their Littlewoods football pools coupons, dreaming of a big win. His father also participated in ‘spot the ball’ contests, where he would guess the location of a ball marked by an X within a football scene photographic image cut out from a newspaper.

Arthur’s father worked as an electrician for the Merseyside and North Wales Electricity Board (MANWEB), while his mother was an office worker for Whitbread Breweries in Liverpool. His grandfather was a coachbuilder, and his grandmother owned a fish and chip shop, where Arthur often enjoyed free meals.

Arthur initially aspired to follow in his father’s footsteps as an electrician, but his father discouraged him, citing the dirty and physically demanding nature of the work. Taking on board his father’s advice Arthur recollects during his school holidays he would often cook a meal of beans or spaghetti on toast and thought he could do better than that and decided to train as a chef. He enrolled at a local college for a three-year program to gain professional qualifications.

Upon graduation, Arthur secured his first job as a chef aboard the Canadian Pacific Line’s passenger ship, the ‘Empress of Canada.’ Over two years, he enjoyed long working days, the thrill of ocean travel, and visits to Canada. After leaving the ship, Arthur worked in various restaurants in Liverpool, which allowed him to reconnect with his passion for Everton and football.

A highlight of Arthur’s culinary career was his five-year tenure as a chef at the St John’s Beacon in Liverpool, the city’s second tallest building. The restaurant’s revolving floor offered panoramic views, and while Arthur left before Freddie Mercury and Brian May of the Queens Rock band dined there, he had already made his mark.

In 1973, Arthur joined the Royal Air Force as a chef, beginning his service at Rudloe Manor near Box. Over the years, he was stationed in Germany, the UK, including Aldergrove Base camp in Northern Ireland, serving at Nordhorn, Berlin’s Gatow Airbase, and Henlow. After retiring from the RAF, Arthur worked for the Northern Ireland Prison Service as a chef officer, teaching prisoners’ culinary skills until his retirement in 2015. There’s no doubt his contribution to both military and public service is commendable.

Arthur’s partner, Jackie Leach, has lived in Box for over 45 years. Together, they have four children and 11 grandchildren. Family time is a cherished priority, and Arthur encourages his grandchildren to engage in sports like rugby and football.

Both Arthur and Jackie enjoy socializing at The Queens pub in Box, where they are active members of the boules team and Arthur also plays for the crib team and enjoys playing darts. Arthur also enjoys golf, soul and reggae music, and serving on the Seniors Committee at Kingsdown Golf Club as Trophy Master during which he ensures the upkeep of trophies. As Director of House, he organizes events for new members, general needs for the clubhouse maintenance and oversees the clubhouse’s bar and catering needs.

Arthur’s dedication to the club is deeply appreciated, as echoed in the words of fellow members:

Richard Talbot – Chairman Kingsdown Golf Club

“As Chairman of Kingsdown Golf Club, I would like to express the appreciation to Arthur for his service as a member of our senior section and the Director of House of our club. His commitment, and passion has played a part in the welcoming atmosphere and enhancing our facilities to benefit all members and visitors.”

Sasha A’Court – Bar & Catering Manager Kingsdown Golf Club

“As our Director of House, Arthur is a dedicated leader who works closely with our staff, fostering teamwork and a positive atmosphere. His strong leadership skills shine, particularly during our social events, which he attends regularly to engage with both staff and members. Arthur’s friendly and kind nature makes him highly popular, and his presence contributes greatly to the welcoming environment we strive for. We truly appreciate his support and look forward to continuing our collaboration with him for many years.”

Paul Steer – member of Kingsdown Golf Club

Arthur is a very loyal and trustworthy friend. He will willingly share your problems, help wherever he can and keep them to himself.

I organise several Golf Tours each year and Arthur always has the first invite. He enjoys life and is great company. I know that he has many Irish friends so he has mastered “ the craic” as they say. At the same time, I think one of his best qualities is in being a calming influence on those around him. Useful when we travel as a group.

From organising Golf trips, a day out or helping at the Golf Club Arthur ensures that he does his share in anything that he is involved in.

I also know that Arthur has a great fondness for Box. Often talking about his Boules and the local pub.

Steve Haresnape – Kingsdown Golf Club

“Arthur is a small man with a big heart and a big personality. I’ve known him for about 9 years now and he never fails to make me laugh and inspire me with his generosity. We share a passion for Everton FC and have needed to keep each other positive over the last few years. I’m very happy to count him amongst my best friends”.

In conclusion, Arthur, a Box resident and fellow golf club member, has a truly remarkable life story. It was an absolute pleasure to explore the fascinating details of his journey and arrange a portrait photo shoot. An experience that was not only immensely enjoyable but also engaging and full of good humour.

For Arthur:

Ah, an Everton supporter—loyal through the years, From the glory of Goodison to the roar and the cheers. A heart that beats in royal blue, Through triumphs and trials, ever true.

Whether it’s the Derby or a hard-fought draw, You stand steadfast, filled with awe. Dreams of silverware linger still, But your love for the Toffees never will chill.

For Evertonians, it’s more than a game, It’s history, pride, and a cherished name. From Dixie Dean to the modern day, You walk on together, come what may.

I hope readers of the Box and Corsham magazine find this article as engaging and enjoyable to read as it was for me to research and write.

Larry St Croix

12 February 2025