Praise contines to flood in for Sir Bobby Robson

Mar 11 2009 by Paul Lorraine and Jo Butcher, The Journal

PRAISE and admiration continues to flood in for Sir Bobby Robson. Hundreds of people have left messages on our special “Dear Bobby” section of The Journal’s website, and many more have written in with their thoughts.

We invited people to log on to our site following the opening of the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre to express what they think of Sir Bobby.

And North business leaders have been quick to praise the former Newcastle United manager, who they say is an inspiration.

Paul Walker, chief executive of The Sage Group plc, wrote: “I think everybody in the region – and beyond – has been incredibly impressed and inspired by what Sir Bobby has achieved.

“Throughout his footballing career he was able to motivate those around him and now through The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation he has done the same, working selflessly for others to raise funds to research and beat cancer.

“The £1.2m raised in 10 months, largely from within the North East, will be of enormous help to many and I think the region is rightly proud of Sir Bobby’s involvement and leadership.”

Chairman of the Vardy Group, Sir Peter Vardy, said the 76-year-old is an example for us all.

“Sir Bobby epitomizes all that is great about this region,” he said. “He is a truly great man of the people who has a very strong work ethic and is loved and admired by everyone, passionate in all that he does and committed to giving back to the North East community.

“He has shown what can be done by channelling his drive and determination to make a difference for those suffering with cancer through creating his Foundation.

“When his original goal of £500,000 was surpassed, he didn’t give up, but kept the pressure on to achieve this amazing total. He has surrounded himself with great people and encouraged his peers to support him. What better example could there be for all of us in the North East?”