Whenever anybody mentions Chelsea I remember my great uncle Sir Jarvis Cheyne-Wibble who lived just off the Kings Road in that borough. He proudly served his country in the Great War but remained modest about his award of the Victoria Cross and never boasted about his achievements.
After the war he took up sports and had a remarkable record. His name is on the wall at Lords to mark the century he scored against Australia. He won Wimbledon and was mentor to the great Fred Perry. On the football pitch he captained his local Chelsea side and won 85 England caps. He is said to be the inspiration for Roy of the Rovers.
Later in life he brought his incredible intellect to the world of politics. He was a pioneer; advocating public housing, educational reform, social inclusivity and the creation of a national health service.
He earned his knighthood for services to literature, truly a Renaissance man. After his death his memory is honoured by a modest bronze statue in Cadogan Square, the good burghers of Chelsea mark each anniversary of his death with floral tributes, the women wail and rend their garments, the men mark his memory by removing their hats and observing a moment of quiet contemplation.
For that reason alone I hope Chelsea smash whatever team they happen to be playing tomorrow.
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