Bobby Charlton's hometown pays tribute to local 'hero' who became an icon

25 October 2023 , 17:24

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Bobby and Jack Charlton are cheered in their hometown after World Cup triumph in 1966 (Image: Mirrorpix)

Sir Bobby Charlton ’s hometown has paid tribute to its most famous son following his death on Saturday.

The tight-knit mining community of Ashington was a prolific producer of footballing talent, with the former Manchester United and England ace widely regarded as its finest. Sir Bobby is revered in his hometown alongside his late brother and fellow World Cup winner Jack and his second cousin, Newcastle United legend Jackie Milburn.

The Charltons’ mum Cissie’s four brothers, Jack, Stan, George and Jimmy, were all professionals too. But Bobby, born in the Northumberland town on October 11, 1937, became a global icon. Councillor Caroline Ball, who represents the Ashington Central ward, said: “For me, he was a hero.

Crowds cheer Bobby and Jack's World Cup win (Mirrorpix)

"To go from the Hirst Estate and go on to be top scorer for Manchester United and England for so many years, he will always be a footballing icon. For us in Ashington to produce so many people who played at the highest level, is just amazing. It should serve as an inspiration for all the young people playing football in the town – they can go on and do anything.”

Councillor Brian Gallacher described the loss as “devastating” adding: “He is one of our local heroes.” The town’s council added: “As one of Ashington’s most famous sons, Sir Bobby brought great pride and inspiration to our community through his outstanding football career. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time.

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“On behalf of the council and our community, we want to express our deepest admiration and gratitude for the incredible contributions Sir Bobby made to football. His journey from Ashington to becoming one of the greatest players of all time is inspirational. Rest in Peace Sir Bobby.”

The statue of Sir Bobby alongside Denis Law and George Best at Old Trafford is covered in tributes, scarves and flowers, with a minute’s silence observed before Manchester United’s 1-0 Champions League defeat of FC Copenhagen on Tuesday night.

Jeremy Armstrong