Background
Born in Bushey, Bunce grew up in the local area, representing Hertfordshire as a schoolboy.
Born in Bushey, Bunce grew up in the local area, representing Hertfordshire as a schoolboy.
He played as a left winger in England and later South Africa. He briefly returned to England as a coach, but then emigrated to Australia, where he spent the remainder of his life. He joined Watford as an amateur in September 1955, turning professional later in the year.
His first competitive appearance came on 22 October 1955, in a 2–0 Football League Third Division South defeat at Southampton.
Bunce"s first goal came three days later, in a Southern Floodlit Cup fixture against Aldershot Town, and his first Football League goal on 29 October against Shrewsbury Town. Despite this early form, Bunce"s appearances in his first three seasons at Watford were limited.
He made twelve in 1955-1956, two in 1956-1957, and none in 1957-1958. Nonetheless, during this period Bunce became the first Watford player to play for England at youth level since Fred Fayers in 1910.
He followed this up with 32 appearances in 1959-1960, as Watford secured promotion from the Fourth Division.
He played in all of Watford"s remaining league games, finishing the season with 16 goals from 43 appearances. The club finished the season in 4th position, at the time their highest ever Football League placing. He followed this up with 11 goals from 51 appearances in 1961-1962.
Bunce emigrated to South Africa in February 1964, joining Highlands Park.
He then spent two years at Germiston Callies, before returning to England to coach Bedford Town in 1967. By 1969 he had emigrated to Australia, where he played for Whilmena and Ringwood.
He remained in the country after his retirement as a player, coaching youth players. Bunce died on 9 October 1991, aged 53.
Bunce established himself as a frequent member of the first team squad in 1958-1959, making 26 appearances in all competitions.