Ray progressed through the junior ranks of Willington Quay Boys Club, which is now known as Wallsend, and later joined Preston North End at the age of 15. However, after a 3-year apprenticeship at Preston, he decided to return home. In his own words, Ray expressed, “The professional game wasn’t what I had envisioned football to be. One pro told me I had no friends on the training pitch and I had to want their shirt and they were after mine.” This disillusionment led him to sign for Evenwood Town in the Northern League, where he achieved great success, winning two Northern League Championship Trophies in just three seasons. His scoring prowess was evident as he netted 29 and 27 goals in his first two seasons.

Ray then had stints at Blyth Spartans, South Shields (for 3 years), Bishop Auckland, and Blue Star in the Wearside League. Notably, while playing for Blue Star, he returned to help out Blyth Spartans in their epic 1980 cup run against Hull City, where they narrowly lost 2-1 in a third match at Elland Road, Leeds https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xCA4gGfZUAM. Ray made a significant impact during this time, scoring a remarkable goal from 25 yards in the 2-2 draw at Croft Park, a moment immortalized on YouTube. He later experienced further FA Cup success with North Shields, beating Halifax 1-0 before eventually being knocked out by Walsall 3-0.

At the age of 40, Ray joined Marden O 40’s and enjoyed success as a player and manager, winning the Premier League and various cups. His versatility and skill on the pitch have contributed to his status as one of the club’s finest players. He now spends his time on the golf course.

To quote Arsene Wenger "Characteristics of the great players is they have time you know" Ray had lots of time

Never one to take himself to seriously Ray once said "I was never one to win at all costs. I was happy to play at a good standard. I've always gone to teams for the people and the social side"