Rob Bell of The History Troupe tells the story of Patrick O’Connell who was born within the shadow of Croke Park, Dublin. He became a footballer with Belfast City, Sheffield Wednesday and played for Hull City 1912-14. After a controversial spell at Manchester United he made his name in Spain winning La Liga with Real Betis and then, became manager of FC Barcelona. Johann Cruyff considered Don Patricio as the Saviour of the club. This talk by. Rob traces the life of this fascinating man and takes us into the heart of the Spanish Civil War and explains just why he means so much to the Blau Grana.

This talk is in support of the International Brigade Memorial Trusts fund raising to erect a statue to commemorate those from Hull who served in the Spanish Civil War. The bucket will be passed round at the event.