THE family of football's legendary clown prince of soccer, Len Shackleton, took part in an emotional unveiling of a tribute portrait and plaque yesterday.
Len's wife Marjorie, son Roger, and other family members unveiled the 3ft portrait at Sunderland's Stadium of Light, the club where he made his name. The event took place before Sunderland's home match against Bradford City, in private out of respect for the family's wishes.
The final location of the portrait is yet to be decided, but it will displayed somewhere in the stadium. A replica of the picture and plaque was hung in the West Stand, next to the Len Shackleton bar, for supporters to see before the game.
The portrait shows the North-East legend in action and the plaque pays tribute to Len's skills on the pitch.
It reads: "Len Shackleton: The Clown Prince of Soccer known simply as Shack - the greatest crowd pleaser in Sunderland AFC's long and proud history and one of the greatest talents England has ever produced.
"A player of unique skill and inventiveness, Shack scored 101 goals in 348 games Sunderland between 1948 and 1957 and entertained millions of supporters providing memories that will never dim."
Club chairman Bob Murray said: "I am honoured to welcome Len Shackleton's family to the Stadium of Light so we can all pay tribute to this wonderful man.
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