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Incredible life of British army's first black officer who gave up football career with Tottenham to fight and died leading his men in First World War is remembered in new book

The tale of Britain's first black army officer who gave up his football career before dying in combat has been remembered in a new book.

Walter Tull overcame adversity early on in life - he was orphaned as a child and grew up in a children's home - to make his name as a professional footballer.

Walter, whose late father was from the West Indies, endured racist abuse from crowds during matches.

His career was cut short at the outbreak of the First World War when he joined the newly-formed 17th (Football) Battalion, Middlesex Regiment.

Walter in his Tottenham Hotspur kit
Walter Tull (shown during his time with Tottenham Hotspur, left) gave up his football career to join the British Army (shown right)
Walter Tull in uniform
Walter playing for Tottenham (in white) against Manchester United during the 1909/10 season
Walter playing for Tottenham (in white) against Manchester United during the 1909/10 season
Walter bucked this trend and became the first black combat officer in the British Army (pictured with fellow officers)
Walter bucked this trend and became the first black combat officer in the British Army (pictured with fellow officers)

The regiment was part of the army's 'Pals Battalion' and was made up of more than 120 professional footballers.