1922 - Football Pool Originates

Matthew Robson Pools Winner in 1957 – Won £75 000 For A Two Pence Stake On Vernons Pools. AOP

Inspired by the grand success of the tipping competitions, Birmingham resident John Jervis Barnard formulates his own competition. Tipsters could now bet on the outcome of football matches for an entry fee, thus contributing to a ‘betting pool.’ The winner could take home all the money pooled in minus a 10% kept aside to cover management costs. But the operations soon start fizzling out leaving Barnard struggling to earn profits. Nevertheless, this innovative idea excites workmates John Moores, Colin Askham and Bill Hughes who eventually meet up with him.