Sir Bobby Charlton: A Legend Remembered
The recent public commemoration service to mark the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton was a global event. You could tell by the number of TV crews present, both at Manchester Cathedral and Old Trafford. The stature of the people who turned up, including Prince William, England manager Gareth Southgate, and Aleksander Ceferin, president of European football’s governing body Uefa, also reflected the enormity of the occasion.
But what truly spoke volumes was the presence of ‘ordinary folk’ who turned out on a blustery, grey north-west day to pay their respects. It was a testament to the impact of the man who, until relatively recently, held the record for the most goals scored for Manchester United and England, and who, along with long-time team-mate Nobby Stiles, remains one of only two Englishmen to have started – and won – World Cup and European Cup finals.
The commemoration booklet depicted two sides of Charlton. On the front, he appeared as the statesman and ambassador, while the back showed a younger Charlton in the red and white kit synonymous with his playing career. However, it was the inside of the booklet that revealed Charlton the family man, captured with his wife Norma and children Suzanne and Andrea after receiving his OBE at Buckingham Palace in 1969.
This personal side of Charlton played a significant role in the final public chapter of his extraordinary life. Norma, wishing for a private event, ensured that there were no cameras inside the Cathedral. The moving tribute by Charlton’s grandson, William Balderston, painted a heartwarming picture of the real-life Charlton, away from the spotlight.
Charlton’s legacy goes beyond his achievements on the football pitch. His resilience, surviving the Munich air crash in 1958, and his remarkable career statistics speak volumes. However, it was his character off the field that truly set him apart. Described as a gentleman and a fierce competitor, Charlton embodied the best of the English game.
The tributes from former chief executive David Gill, Sir Alex Ferguson, and Manchester United Foundation chief executive John Shiels shed light on different facets of Charlton’s character. They spoke of his humility, professionalism, and impeccable manners, painting a picture of a thoroughly decent man.
In the end, it was Reverend Grace Thomas who encapsulated Charlton’s legacy best. She spoke of Charlton the humble family man, who never lost touch with his roots and never boasted about his on-field achievements. It is this side of Charlton that will be remembered and cherished for years to come.
Sir Bobby Charlton, a legend in every sense of the word, may you rest in peace.