NOTTINGHAM-born Mark Mellors joined City from Sheffield United in March 1909 for £350 – and immediately played his part in helping the club remain in Division One.

Bradford had to beat Manchester United in their final game of the season to stay up. They won 1-0, with Mellors proving the hero of the hour.

He was even knocked out when throwing himself in the way of a shot and had to be propped against the post as City defended the resulting corner.

At the final whistle, the crowd carried him shoulder high from the field.

Mellors made club history two seasons later with the run of eight clean sheets in a row between February 25 and April 1, 1911, including three on City's way to winning the FA Cup.

He conceded only once, in the second round against Norwich, during the seven games City played to lift the trophy for the only time in their history.

Mellors retired seven years later but remained in Bradford as a successful wool trader. He was a regular at Valley Parade until his death aged 81 near Guiseley in 1961.

My thanks to Bantamspast, the Bradford City museum, for their research.