Sir Bobby Robson Statue Unveiled at St James Park
By Tyne-Talk
May 6 2012
Newcastle United have today unveiled at 9.5ft bronze statue of former manager Sir Bobby Robson, who sadly passed away three years ago at the age of 76, having fought his fifth battle with cancer. Former player Paul Gascoigne and current manager Alan Pardew lead the tributes and applause, accompanied by current and former players, including Lee Clark, Peter Beardsley, Steve Harper and Nikos Dabizas.
The unveiling of the statue, which can be found at the south west corner of the stadium, was witnessed by Lady Elsie, wife of the late Sir Bobby, who was also given a beautiful floral arrangement by Alan Pardew.
Managing Director of Newcastle United, Derek Llambias said at the ceremony;
"There are only a handful of names in the history of Newcastle United that command the respect and recognition that Sir Bobby did.
Throughout the world of football, he was respected for his achievements as a player and as a manager and is held in the highest regard by everybody associated with the game.
But here in the north-east, he was a Geordie icon who helped change the history of this club.
We are delighted to honour Sir Bobby Robson today. I'm sure you agree that this statue is a fitting tribute to a truly great man."
Whilst Lady Elsie, who was joined by her sons added;
"My husband often spoke of living a black-and-white life.
It took him from the darkness of Langley Park Colliery to the bright glare of the floodlights. Black and white were the shades that always clung to him.
When he left the north-east as a young man to pursue his football career, the north-east and Newcastle United never left him.
It feels fitting that we should be standing on the hill that Bob used to walk up with his father and brothers on a Saturday afternoon to watch Albert Stubbins and his other boyhood heroes.
It was here that Bob's great love affair with football began and he that he returned to proudly manage Newcastle. He helped them rebuild and eventually lifted them into Europe.
He would be thrilled with the way Newcastle have performed this season, which is testament to the hard work and dedication of Alan Pardew, his staff and players.
It was also Newcastle where Bobby built his final team, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, the charity he established to help people fighting with cancer, and that has now raised more than £4million.
Even from the depths of darkness, brightness can emerge. I would like to thank Newcastle United for this magnificent tribute to my husband and for their ongoing support for his charity."
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Sir Bobby is a legend
