In a large pot over medium heat, cook bacon until crisp. Add onion and garlic; cook and stir until tender. Stir in flour until blended. Gradually stir in chicken broth. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
Stir in clams with juice, potatoes, thyme, bay leaf and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Stir in half-and-half cream; heat through (do not boil). Remove bay leaf before serving.