Locally born, Peter played for Enfield and joined Spurs from the non-league outfit as an amateur in 1949. He was signed by Spurs as a professional in September 1952, getting an early taste of action in the first team before that season ended (18.04.1953 at Sunderland), but he had Alf Ramsey ahead of him in the pecking order. When Alf retired from playing and left to take up the manager's job at Ipswich Town, Baker might have expected to step into his boots, as he was highly regarded at the club. It was a surprise when Charlie Withers was chosen to fill the full back slot and Peter waited patiently for a chance, which came when he stood in for the injured Maurice Norman at full back. So well did Baker do in the big man's absence, that when Norman was fit again, he had to slot in at centre-half to get a game and became a regular there.
Baker's accurate passing and excellent fitness saw him give 90 minute performances every week and playing behind Danny Blanchflower at right back, he provided cover when his captain went on forays up-field and was happy to play short passes to Blanchflower and Dave Mackay for them to launch attacks.
Defender Johnny Hills vied for Baker's position in the 1957-58 season, but could not permanently displace him and Baker missed only four games in eight years after that, as his continued presence added a stability to the Spurs defence. His unruffled performances provided a comfort for Spurs fans, as even against the quickest wingers he could position his body to show them the way he wanted them to go and his deceptive pace made sure he could get back into position if needed.
As part of the back three of Henry, Norman and Baker, he performed to a high standard throughout the Double season and in the sides that won the FA Cup the following season and the European Cup Winners Cup the year after that. His distribution from the back sparked many a forward movement, with the speedy winger Cliff Jones in front of him and the skilful John White in midfield as a close ally.
Baker's level of play was consistent as he moved into the post Double team era, but when Cyril Knowles was signed by Bill Nicholson, it signalled the end of Baker's reign. After playing for Spurs, he moved to South Africa to play for Durban United, before coaching and then managing the team. On finishing with football, Baker concentrated on his office furniture and stationery business interests in South Africa, but often makes a return to his footballing home of White Hart Lane looking dapper in his trilby hat.
After an illness, Peter Baker died on 27th January 2016.