Bernard Moore. 18th December 1923 – 20th July 2014.
Everyone at Kenilworth Road was saddened to learn of the recent death of Bernard Moore at the grand age of 90.
Born in Brighton, Bernard joined his local side during the early war years and was soon banging in goals for fun. After signing as a professional for Albion in 1945, service in the Far East seemed to cut short his career as by the time of his return two years later he struggled to win a settled place in the team.
Even so, it came as a surprise when he was sold to Hastings United for £200 in 1948. As if to prove everyone wrong he hit a phenomenal 138 goals in 121 games at Pilot Field before the Hatters paid a then Southern League record £4500 to take him to Kenilworth Road in January 1951.
Bernard scored on his Luton debut in a 2-2 home draw with Manchester City before hitting six in his next 12 games to help the Town to narrowly avoid relegation from the old Division Two (now the Championship).
cut back his appearances in 1951/52 but he was back to his best the following season, banging in 13 goals, many of them long range efforts, alongside Gordon Turner and Jesse Pye. By now 30 and seeing his first team appearances dwindling Bernard was pleased to accept a move back to where it all started, with Brighton paying £3000 for ‘the one that got away’ in March 1954.
In November 1955, and now at the veteran stage, Bernard joined Bedford, just in time to take part in the Eagles epic FA Cup run when they took mighty Arsenal to a replay.
After retirement, Bernard lived in Putnoe and was a welcome guest at the Kenilworth Road centenary celebrations in 2005.
Our condolences go out to Bernard’s family and friends on their sad loss.