Player #7 for Aston Villa, William Bernard Mason, known as Billy Mason played as a forward for the club.

Billy made his debut in the 1879-80 FA Cup campaign - Villa’s first entry into the competition but he was to remain active with the Villa for just that one season.

That only told part of the story however as Billy was a Founder Member of Aston Villa FC and was appointed Honorary Secretary of Villa from foundation in May 1874.

Billy had also played in Villa’s first ever game in February 1875 vs. Aston Park, he also played in Aston Villa’s second game on 13 March 1875, against Aston Brook St. Mary’s Rugby Club.

Billy was born in Birmingham, just 3 miles from the current Villa ground, in February 1855 and made his FA Cup debut as a 24 year old.

Villa had signed him from Moseley Grasshoppers but he was only to appear on two occasions in the FA Cup, both in the 1879-80 season.

He did however score twice in the 3-1 2nd Round victory over Stafford Road played at Villa’s than home ground in. Wellington Road, Perry Barr.

Billy’s second and final game came on 24 January 1880 just over a month after his debut on 13th December 1879. He then moved on to Wednesbury Town.

Billy played in the era when team selection was made by a Management Committee rather than the latter day more typical Manager role.

Billy passed away in Birmingham in September 1922 aged 67.