Walter Tull was born on the 28th of April 1888 in Folkestone, Kent. Walter had five brothers and sisters and was of mixed heritage. His father was from Barbados and his mother was from Kent.

When he was young his mother died from cancer. His father married again, but died two years later from heart disease. His stepmother couldn’t cope with six children, so Walter and his brother Edward were sent to a children’s home in London. Later, Edward was adopted and went to live in Glasgow, leaving Walter in London.

He left school when he was 14 and got a job. He was a talented footballer and joined Clapton FC in 1908, winning the FA Amateur Cup with them. He was spotted by Tottenham Hotspur and signed a professional contract, playing his first league game in September 1909.

He gained a reputation for being brave, courageous and professional. Sadly, he suffered racial abuse from fans while he played for Spurs. Once a reporter was so upset, the story made the headlines in the Football Star. Walter always remained strong and professional though, and in 1911 he joined to Northampton Town.

In 1914 the First World War began and Walter joined the army, becoming the first black officer in 1917.

There is a display about him in the National Football Museum because he is so important. During the war, his commanding officer recommended Tull for a Military Cross because of his bravery. But it was never given to him and today there is still a campaign to get him awarded the medal posthumously.

Because people have been determined to tell his story, he is now known as a courageous footballer and soldier. His life has been remembered in lots of ways, including a blue plaque, a memorial in Northampton and even in a set of stamps to mark the first world war.

In 2020, as part of Black History Month, a red post box in Glasgow was painted black and his photograph and story was printed on it.