FOOTBALLER

Situated in the Unconsecrated/East Section of Jesmond Old Cemetery.

Born in Ashton under Lyne in 1875, Lycurgus Burrows joined Royal Arsenal as an amateur in January 1892, but did not sign league forms until July the following year. The full back played once for Royal Arsenal before their induction to the Football League and appeared 21 times for the reserves. Interestingly, his amateur status meant that he was able to play four FA Cup matches for their arch rivals, Tottenham Hotspur, during his spell with the Gunners. Burrows struggled for first team opportunities when, now named Woolwich Arsenal, the Gunners entered the Second Division, playing only 10 times over three seasons. In 1895, he left to play for their North London rivals, making over 50 appearances for Tottenham Hotspur. 
In the 22nd April, 1896 edition of The Sketch, an article on football comments thus on Lycurgus: “Mr. Lycurgus Burrows is the well known full back of the Tottenham Hotspur F.C. and one of the smartest men to be found in that onerous position. Born at Ashton under Lyne on June 26nd 1875, Burrows commenced his football career in Govan, with the Melrose. Thence he went to Sheffield, playing there with his school team, St. John’s, until leaving for Woolwich, where he joined the local Polytechnic. Subsequently, he made a few appearances on behalf of the Woolwich Arsenal, and, as a matter of fact, assisted that professional team before he was 16 years of age. As a back, he is very strong and dashing, and has earned a great name in the Southern district. Burrows stands 5ft 9 inches, and weighs 12st 10lb.“