[2][3][4] Born in Arlesey,[1] Kitchener began his career as an apprentice with West Ham United after leaving school.
He finally made his Hammers' debut in a First Division away game against Nottingham Forest on 18 March 1967.
He won an extended run in the first team, making 11 appearances for West Ham, before leaving in December 1967 to become Torquay's record signing.
[5] He immediately established himself in the side, taking Bobby Baxter's place at left-back, though also played in the centre of defence when required.
Outside of football he had joined the Devon & Cornwall Police Force whilst with Torquay, and was later stationed at Burley in the New Forest for many years.