Former Hartlepool United forward Bobby 'five goal' Folland passes away after battling dementia

Former Hartlepool United forward Bobby Folland has sadly passed away at age 80 following a three year battle with dementia.
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Folland was born in Hartlepool on December 3, 1940 and joined his hometown club as a youngster from Newcastle United in 1960.

He went on to make 64 appearances for the club over the next three years, scoring 28 goals. His most notable achievement in blue and white came in a 5-1 home win over Oldham Athletic in which he scored all five goals.

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‘Five goal’ Folland’s feat has yet to be matched by a Pools player since and remains a club record for goals scored in a single Football League game by an individual player.

Bobby Folland (pictured back row, second from left) as part of the 1961-62 Hartlepools United squad at Victoria Park.Bobby Folland (pictured back row, second from left) as part of the 1961-62 Hartlepools United squad at Victoria Park.
Bobby Folland (pictured back row, second from left) as part of the 1961-62 Hartlepools United squad at Victoria Park.

After finishing playing, Folland went on to become a toolmaker until his retirement but would often recall fond memories of playing for Pools to his grandchildren.

The former United striker sadly passed away on New Year’s Day 2021. His funeral will take place at Stranton Crematorium on January 15.

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