Alan Shearer receives honorary degree from Newcastle University

Dec 8 2009 by Nicola Juncar, The Journal

Portrait of a legend on sale today

AN oil painting of Sir Bobby Robson, originally commissioned for a charity event, is to be auctioned today.

The portrait was commissioned from Newcastle football and sporting artist Mark Scorer for the Prince’s Trust.

It was one of the star lots in a football memorabilia auction two years ago as part of a series of sporting events in the North East.

Proceeds from the Prince’s Trust Challenge Trophy 2007 went to the trust to help young disadvantaged people in the region. The painting went on offer after a match at St James’ Park between the Duke of Northumberland’s XI and a side managed by Jack Charlton for the Earl of Durham.

The games featured ex-Newcastle United stars John Beresford, Peter Beardsley, Scott Sellars, Warren Barton, Lee Clark, Marc Hottiger, Darren Peacock, Philippe Albert, Paul Gascoigne and Ruel Fox.

Golf and cricket events were also part of the series.

The painting will be sold today by Newcastle auctioneers Anderson & Garland and is estimated at £800-£1,200.

The painting is signed “best wishes, Bobby Robson” in silver pen.

The vendor, who does not wish to be named, said: “I met Sir Bobby several times and it is a fantastic portrait which captures everything about him, including that wry look he often had.

“I have been really torn about selling it but I have moved to a smaller home.”

Tony Henderson