2021 Crystal Calendar

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The supporters have generously agreed to meet the cost of cleaning the grave to make sure it will be in tip-top condition for their visit to Prudhoe. Callender was originally from Prudhoe in Northumberland and worked as a miner in his teenage years. He first played football for Wylam Primitive Methodist Church Club, before progressing to Prudhoe Castle FC in his teens. Cllr Angie Scott, who represents Prudhoe North on Northumberland County Council, has worked alongside the history project in making sure the visit happens, and was full of praise for the team of volunteers.

Life-long Eagles fan James Wright, a former teacher at Cumnor House School, on Pampisford Road, South Croydon, has heavily researched Callender’s life and published ‘The Sad Story of Billy Callender’ in November 2011. Billy Callender (5 January 1903 [1] – 26 July 1932) was an English professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper. He made 202 Football League appearances for Crystal Palace between 1923 and 1932. [1]Billy's tragic story was immoratlised b lifelong Palace fan James Wright ten years ago in a mini-book titled The Sad Story of Billy Callender, where Wright pays tribute to his kindness and devotion, especially in Ella’s last days when she was bed-ridden. He tragically took his own life after the death of his beloved fiance in 1932, and is now buried at the Edgewell Cemetery in Prudhoe, overlooking the Tyne Valley. Brett was tragically killed in action by an Improvised Explosive Device on 23 May 2011. As the 10-year anniversary of Brett’s passing approached, Life on the Line was asked by one of Brett's close friends and fellow commandos to commemorate the day. We have done so by creating this special podcast, a celebration of his life. Alex Lloyd spoke with family, friends and colleagues of Brett - from those who knew him personally to those who served alongside him and marvelled at his professionalism. Billy Callender made 225 appearances for the Crystal Palace between 1923 and 1932 and was a crowd favourite. My response was “Yes – why wouldn’t you?” To which he replied that he doesn’t work on his own. Despite his initial hesitation, he accepted the award. On the day of the ceremony we travelled to the base – my two daughters and their partners, and my mother as well. Two commandos were awarded that day. The other medal recipient had the first seat, then Brett, Elvi, myself and the rest of my family, and Iain.

The calendar also contains four Crystal Art projects for you to enjoy and complete for each season. Edgewell Road Cemetery in Prudhoe, Northumberland, where Billy Callender was laid to rest (Image: Google Streetview)A great part of my career and loving great design means that buying architectural magazines and watching shows like Grand Designs can be counted as ‘working’!” she enthused.