Bernard started his career in the youth ranks at his local team Shrewsbury Town before joining Stoke City in 1965 after impressing in a youth team match between the two sides. He made his debut during the 1965–66 season and became a regular in Tony Waddington's first team by 1967–68. He became useful player who was able to play at full back and in midfield and was a member of Stoke's 1972 League Cup winning squad. Bernard then became the first member of the squad to leave as after making 178 appearances he was sold to Everton in April 1972 for a then club record £140,000.