Westbury remembers legendary captain Billy Pearce in wartime exhibition

THE latest exhibition at Westbury Museum shines a light on a local Westbury United FC legend, Billy Pearce. 

Billy was captain of Westbury United in the 1930s and a key player for the Wiltshire County team who made the ultimate sacrifice for his country during the Second World War. 

A rare photograph of Billy in his Westbury kit is on display in the Westbury at War exhibition – now on at Westbury Museum. 

“A true leader on and off the pitch, Billy guided his team through one of their most successful eras, even captaining the Wiltshire County team throughout the decade. But Billy’s story is more than football – it’s one of courage and sacrifice,” said the Museum. “When WWII broke out, he answered the call to serve his country, ultimately sacrificing his life in a time of immense challenge. 

“This rare photograph captures Billy in his iconic striped football uniform, a reminder of his passion for the sport and his dedication to his team.” 

Billy’s name is one of 30 Westbury men whose names were added to the memorial in the Market Place when it was rededicated in 1947. 

You can discover more stories about Westbury during those war years at the WWII Wartime Westbury exhibition at Westbury Museum with free admission. The exhibition highlights stories from Westbury during the war years — from the only documented bombing in the town, when Mr Wheeler’s home in Leigh Road was struck in 1940, to the brave men and women who kept the home fires burning and made the ultimate sacrifice.