The Topical Times Football Book 1961 - 62

Time machines come in many forms, but few are as evocative as the Topical Times Football Book 1961-62. This vintage annual, now a prized collector's item, offers a fascinating glimpse into what many consider the golden age of British football.
The book's physical presence alone tells a story. Bound in light grey boards that have weathered the decades remarkably well, its 126 pages capture a pivotal moment in football history. The dust jacket, despite a minor chip at the top right, has preserved its charm – featuring an unnamed goalkeeper on the front and Everton's George Thomson with his car on the back, a charming detail that speaks to an era when footballers were still remarkably accessible figures.
What makes this edition particularly special is its coverage of Tottenham Hotspur's legendary double-winning season. The team appears in glorious colour, a rare treat in an era dominated by black and white photography. The annual provides comprehensive coverage of teams from Arsenal to Sunderland, extending beyond British borders to include Real Madrid. 
The second edition's innovation of including an image index proves invaluable for both researchers and nostalgic fans seeking relatives who played professionally during this period. Team photos of champions across divisions – from Tottenham's First Division triumph to Peterborough United's Fourth Division success – provide a complete picture of the football pyramid of the time. The inclusion of Walthamstow Avenue, described as the "Amateur Kingpins of 1960/61," reminds us of an era when amateur football still commanded significant respect and attention.
What truly sets this annual apart is its immaculate preservation. The clean, tight contents and well-maintained dust jacket (though price-clipped) make this copy, currently valued at £45, a worthy addition to any serious football memorabilia collection. The book's mix of articles, quizzes, and illustrations – both colour and monochrome – creates a comprehensive guide to football as it was played and celebrated in the early 1960s.
For contemporary readers, the annual provides more than just a historical account; it offers a glimpse into a period when football underwent significant changes while maintaining its traditional essence. The attention given to both professional and amateur sides, the mix of Scottish and English coverage, and the careful balance of action photos and formal team portraits paint a picture of a sport deeply embedded in the fabric of British society.
This 1961-62 edition of the Topical Times Football Book isn't just a collectible – it's a preserved moment in football history, offering insights into how the beautiful game was documented, celebrated, and enjoyed over sixty years ago. For historians, collectors, and football enthusiasts alike, it remains an invaluable resource and a tangible connection to football's past. The edition now protected with Archival Dust Jacket Protection