Shrine to Sir Bobby Robson taken down

Aug 11 2009 by Amy Hunt, The Journal

IT HAS been a place for quiet reflection where fans have crossed the football divide in tribute.

But after 11 days, the St James’ Park shrine to the late Sir Bobby Robson was taken down.

Volunteers gave up their time and Newcastle United staff worked for free, carefully moving the flowers, shirts, scarves and other tributes left at the Leazes End.

Bouquets and floral wreaths left in memory of the former Newcastle and England manager, who died aged 76 after a long battle with cancer, will be turned to compost and sold in his memory.

Meanwhile other tributes will be donated to charity and money raised for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

Cards and messages left to the great man have been given to his widow Lady Elsie.

Sir Bobby’s sons Mark and Paul, who visited the ground yesterday, thanked everyone who had gone to St James’ Park to pay their respects and all those who had given up their time to help.

Mark said: “We didn’t expect anything like this after Dad died, so we have been completely overwhelmed. We have been touched by the response from the supporters, of all different clubs and ages.

“People seemed to have a need and a desire to express their tributes, that has been so powerful.

“We would like to thank the volunteers and the club on behalf of the family and Mum, for all the goodwill they have shown.”