Norwich City’s Arsenal giant-killer Ron Hansell dies, aged 82

Ron Hansell, one of the Norwich City giant-killers who toppled mighty Arsenal in the FA Cup in the 1950s, has died at the age of 82.

Norwich-born Hansell played inside-right for the Canaries as they beat the Gunners 2-1 at Highbury in a fourth round tie on January 30, 1954, in front of a crowd of 55,767.

Norman Low’s City team were in Division Three South at the time, while Arsenal were the reigning Football League champions, but two goals from Tommy Johnston gave them one of their most famous victories.

Hansell played again in round five, when City were beaten 2-1 at home by Leicester.

Beginning his football days with Wensum View Youth Club and Norwich St Barnabas, he signed professional for the Canaries in June 1950.

He scored after just 22 minutes of his Football League debut against Leyton Orient in November 1953, and in all he made 36 first-team appearances for City, scoring 10 goals.

Hansell moved to Chester in June 1956 and scored nine times in 38 games, but had to retire from the professional game because of injury, giving years of good service to Yarmouth Town as player and coach.

He also played cricket for Lowestoft and Anglians.

After football, he had a long and successful career in the car sales industry, and lived at Caister.

He leaves a widow, Lorna, and daughters Sue and Sally. The funeral service will be held at Gorleston Crematorium on Wednesday, February 13 (10.40am).