RIP Hughie Cochrane

Margate FC are saddened to learn of the passing of former player Hughie Cochrane.

Hughie played over 120 times in midfield for Margate making his debut for The Gate in 1969 and staying at Hartsdown Park until 1971.

The Glasgow-born footballer began his career in Scottish junior football before joining Dundee. Hughie moved to Barnsley to forge a living in the Football League and made a number of appearances before signing for Wimbledon.

After this spell, Hughie made his move into Kent. Signing for Ashford, Hughe spent three seasons at the club and made a memorable impression playing against Margate by scoring the goal to knock The Blues out of the FA Cup during the 1965/66 season.

During the subsequent summer, Hughie signed for Margate in a deal which saw Gordan Burden exchanged for the Scotman's services at HDP.

Hughie soon dazzled in a Margate shirt. Pulling the strings in midfield, Hughie's quick-feet, visionary passing and incisive skill earnt him many plaudits. Hughie also made it onto the score sheet on a number of occassions contributing vital goals from his midfield positon.

Hughie departed Margate to join Essex-based side, Romford in the summer of 1971. Hughie's heart was clearly in Thanet as he soon returned to the area, signing for Margate's local rivals, Ramsgate. 

This was to prove Hughie's final spell in Kent as he left Ramsgate and returned home to Barnsley where he played and managed Wombwell in the Yorkshire League before finally retiring at the age of 40.

Football continued to play throughout his life and was enjoying the game twice a week, playing five-a-side during 2003. Alongside, Arthur Blackley who sadly passed this month too, Hughie enjoyed a visit back to HDP, invite to attend our Legends Day in 2014.

The pair - who both appeared for Margate and Ramsgate - will be remembered at this Saturday's Thanet Cup game between the two local rivals. 

With thanks to www.margatefootballclubhistory.com

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