Ken Hale RIP (18/09/1939 – 05/01/2015)

We are sad to report that former Sky Blues inside forward Ken Hale is reported to have passed away on Monday evening aged 75.

Born in Blyth, Ken trialled briefly with Everton before signing for Newcastle United in the mid 1950s, understudying Ivor Allchurch and George Eastham for much of his time at St James Park. He was also a successful footballer with the Army during his national service.

One of the earlier Jimmy Hill signings (for £10k) in December 1962 Ken played a big part in Hill’s Sky Blue Revolution winning a Division Three Championship medal. Ken made 99 appearances for CCFC between 1962 and 1966 scoring 27 goals after joining City from Newcastle United. He left Highfield Road to join Oxford United from 1966-68 where he scored 13 goals in his 66 league appearances.

Ken returned his native North-East to play for Darlington FC from 1968-72 (173 league apps:25 goals), made over 50 league appearances for Halifax Town as player-coach (1972-4) and then managed Hartlepool United from 1974 to 1976 before retiring to Seaburn. He later ran a newsagents on Wearside and also worked for the local health authority.

CCFPA sends sincere condolences to Ken’s family and friends. We will pass on details of funeral arrangements when we hear of them.