Stars to shine for Sir Bobby (From The Northern Echo)

Stars to shine for Sir Bobby

6:28pm Sunday 17th February 2013 in News By Gavin Havery, Reporter (Derwentside & Tyneside)

STARS from the North-East and beyond will be out tomorrow (Monday, February 18) to celebrate what would have been the 80th birthday of one of the region’s best-loved sons.

Hosted by Jim Rosenthal and former Lindisfarne singer Billy Mitchell, Sir Bobby Robson – A Celebration features a star-studded line-up at a charity fundraiser at The Sage Gateshead.

Recently confirmed names from the entertainment world include opera star Russell Watson, Alistair McGowan and Paul Smith of Maximo Park.

Liz Luff, of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, the cancer charity he set up before he died of the disease, said: “Sir Bobby Robson’s extraordinary life in football is being celebrated by giants of the game, musical heroes and top comedians in a star-studded gala night.”

Acts include Peter Brewis of Field Music with The Cornshed Sisters, Ruby Turner, Faryl Smith, Scarlett Street and Ben Ottewell.

They are joining big name performers previously announced including Mark Knopfler, Joe McElderry, the Northern Sinfonia, Orchestra, The Unthanks, Simon Day and Paul Whitehouse.

Legendary England defender Stuart Pearce is recalling the night the national side nearly reached the Italia 90 World Cup final under Sir Bobby.

Pearce, who was known as ‘Psycho’ currently manages the England under-21’s and has replaced current England manager Roy Hodgson, who is unable to attend.

There will also be personal testimonies from Spurs manager Andre Villas-Boas, who knew Sir Bobby, from his time at Porto and Newcastle United’s coaching team, including John Carver.

Former players Steve Harper, Shola Ameobi and Steven Taylor will pay tribute to his influence at the club.

Ms Luff added: “It is an unmissable tribute to one of football’s greatest figures.

“This was a concert which was close to Sir Bobby’s heart who recorded his last ever interviews to be screened on the night.”

The former Newcastle and England manager died aged 76 in 2009 after his fifth battle against the disease.

VIP guests at the event, which is also raising money for the Alan Shearer Foundation for children and adults with disabilities, includes Sir Bobby’s family, Niall Quinn, Mick Mills, Steve Gibson, Martin O’Neill, Chris Ramsey, Alan Pardew, John Carver, NUFC players and Steve Harmison.

Sir Bobby's widow Lady Elsie said: “I’ve been quite overwhelmed by the help we’ve been given for this event.

“I know how hard everyone involved is working and I’m extremely grateful to everyone who has contributed in any way.”