National League North
Harry Coates on the attack for Harrogate Railway. Picture: Caught Light Photography
On the eve of their prestigious friendly with a Newcastle United X1, Bradford (Park Avenue) have confirmed former Harrogate Town defender Harry Coates as their ninth signing of the summer.
The 20-year-old appeared in the victory at Eccleshill United in midweek. Although registered with Harrogate, he spent the majority of the last two seasons at their neighbours Harrogate Railway.
Coates follows the captures of Andy McWilliams and Jack Ryan, along with the appointment of former Wolves defender Matt Hill as assistant head coach.
The visit of Newcastle tomorrow is in honour Donald Bell VC – the only professional footballer to be awarded the Victoria Cross. Bell played for both clubs.
Sunday July 10 2016 is the exact 100 year anniversary of the date Bell was gunned down during the Battle of the Somme.
More than 30 members of the family of First World War hero will cheer on his old clubs to mark the 100th anniversary of his death. The match will kick off at 3pm but on-field tributes to Bell will start from 2:30pm.
The day provides a rare chance to glimpse his actual Victoria Cross, owned by the Professional Footballers’ Association, which is normally housed at the Football Museum in Manchester. They bought it at auction for a record price in 2010.
Avenue expect a huge crowd with admission prices reduced to £5 for adults and just £2 for under 18s.