Here’s the first of my new series of blogs where I’ll be looking back on some of my favourite photographs during my forty-odd years snapping the Hammers. With Hammers legend Billy Bonds celebrating his 67th birthday this week, I guess we should start with one of my favourite photographs of all time.
Bonzo had been clattered during a match at Upton Park and as I was waiting in the corridor outside the old changing rooms, the great man appeared in his usual hurry to get away from the ground and down the Blackwall Tunnel to his home south of the Thames. Bill was well known for his quick escapes after matches and the rest of the lads used to joke that he was through the tunnel before anybody else had dried off after the post-match bath. I chased him down the corridor and despite his attempts to shake me off, I finally persuaded him to spare me a few seconds to take my picture. It wasn’t until I processed the image later that I noticed the trickle pf blood running down Bonzo’s nose.
I’m pleased to say that this image has been published many time over the years in various books and magazines.
Look out for more of my favourite photographs in the coming weeks.