Another Hawks legend has been lost when Bert Bassett passed away peacefully on 31st January 2024, aged 88. Born Bryan Bassett, but known as Bert, he was a commanding figure everywhere on the field. 

Bert played as a centre half or centre forward, as well as famously a whole game in goal against Selsey in 1967, when regular keepers Micky Ince and Ray Allcorn were both injured.

Bert made his Hawks debut at centre half after leaving the armed forces as a 19-year-old in the opening game of the 55-56 season, a 6-0 home win over Southwick. Hawks scored three times in the first five minutes of the season – quite a start for Bert.

He had a season at Three Bridges before returning to the Enclosed Ground, being used mainly used as a striker. Powerful in the air, legend has it that he once scored with his head from inside his own half. He scored the third goal with a brave header in a 3-1 Brighton Charity Cup final win over Brighton & Hove Albion at the Goldstone in 1960, as well as 4 times in a 5-1 win at East Grinstead Town the following season. Alternating between the first team and the reserves, he was in double figures for goals in both the 67-68 and 68-69 seasons.

Bert was a much loved husband to Dee, a loving Dad to Diane, and Grandad to George and Charlotte, as well as a Great Grandad to Indy and Siena. He will be sadly missed by all his family and many friends.

Bert’s funeral service will be held at Woodvale Crematorium, South Chapel on 21st February, at 10:30am (gathering beforehand from 10.15am).

Players in 67-68 team photo at top of page:

Back row: Bert Bassett, Frankie Tribe, Dick Corrigan, John Marchant, Ken Powell

Front row: Derek Pullen, Alf Ford, Maurice ‘Eric’ Barker, Ian Muzio, Johnny Cager and Colin Banks