The Story behind The Farrell Barrel
Back in 1982 a competition was started by Sussex County Hockey, offering Sussex Clubs a prize for the most goals scored in a season. By paying in 5p per player for a goal, with a maximum of 3 goals, the team was entered to win a small barrel of beer equivalent to 4.5 gallons (trade name a Firkin) at the end of the season if they scored the most goals.
The barrel of Harvey's Best Bitter was delivered by Frank Farrell, Sussex President. Rather than cart the barrel around the County, he arranged to buy at local hostelries. The year that Chichester Hockey Club won, Frank bought the 'barrel' from the Victoria Pub owned by John Guess. On arrival at Chichester Club House to present the prize, Frank was horrified to see a nine gallon barrel. When he asked why it was so large he was told "You ordered a barrel – that's what you got. If you wanted a small one you should have stipulated a firkin."
No further quibble: Frank paid up. This earned the scheme the sobriquet of the Farrell Barrel and went down in Chichester Hockey folklore.
The original Sussex Teams taking part were:
- Lewes
- Chichester
- Worthing
- Shoreham
- Seaford
- Newhaven
- South Saxons
In 1984 only Lewes and Chichester continued the scheme and Frank added a cup to the prize at the awards evening. He also often rounded up the total to the nearest £100
Frank Farrell was close to Chichester and followed with interest the progress of both Men's and Ladies Hockey. As Sussex President he was always keen to promote and support genuine talent in the game.
