Port Vale 1987-88

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After starting the 1987 – 1988 season well, John Rudge’s side struggled after the sale of prolific goal scorer Andy Jones to Charlton in September. Just as Rudge seemed to be struggling, the Vale earned a memorable 2-1 victory over top-flight Tottenham Hotspur at Vale Park in the FA Cup 4th Round.

Ground improvements increased Vale Park’s capacity, though a watered down pitch persuaded “Spurs” boss Terry Venables to leave star man Osvaldo Ardiles on the bench. Despite this, TV pundit Jimmy Greaves reckoned that “The only trouble Spurs will have at Port Vale, was finding the place.” As it happened 20,045turned up to witness the win with inspirational Ray Walker nailing a stunning 25 yard strike. In the league, the Valiants finished mid-table in 11th position.

During the 1987-1988 season, Moorland Pottery took over Studio Szeiler Ltd, and shortly after, the premises known as Chelsea Works on Moorland Road in Burslem. The company is renowned for producing customised and regionally themed mugs, coasters and tea pots.

Joseph Szeiler was born in South West Hungary in 1924 and travelled to Britain to work as a coal miner. He attended evening classes at the Burslem School of Art and increased his knowledge and reputation as a modeller, mould-maker and caster.

He originally bought the Burslem based works in 1955 as there was a need to expand production of his other premises on Lichfield Street in Hanley. Szeiler produced over a hundred different animal figures in various sizes as well as vases, table ware, money boxes and contemporary sweet dishes.