Before kicking off the season proper next week, the first objective for the Vamps is to retain the Goulding Cup, played for annually against Old Stationers since 1950. As trophies go, it is hardly imposing, barely six inches tall and need of a good polish. It bears a small plaque with the inscription: ‘Presented by the Mayor of Hornsey, Alderman S. G. Goulding J.P., 23rd September 1950’.

Sydney George Goulding lived in Hornsey all of his life. Born on 18 August 1884, his parents were George and Annie Goulding. Sydney followed his father into the building trade, beginning his working life as a bricklayer, before becoming a builder himself.

In 1914 he joined the Hornsey Special Constabulary, and during the First World War served in the London Scottish Regiment, before being transferred to the Royal Naval Air Service. It was in public service however, that he made the biggest contribution, having been first elected to the Council in 1920, and becoming an Alderman in 1939. He was a life-governor of Hornsey Central Hospital, and records show that he served on the Health Committee from at least 1929 until 1946. In 1932 he became Chairman of the Housing Committee, and this chairmanship was commemorated in the naming of ‘Goulding Court’, a block of council flats in Turnpike Lane. He was also chair of the Allotments Committee; a Justice of the Peace; and in his spare time was a noted judge and exhibitor of Airedale dogs. He passed away on 13 May 1977, aged 92 and a wealthy man, with effects valued at £62,256 (approaching £380,000 today).

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