Book to mark life of legend

Memories of Dudley’s famous footballer Duncan Edwards are being collected for a book marking the 50th anniversary of his death next year.

The vicar at St Francis’ Church on the Priory estate, where the footballer’s funeral was held, is compiling the book and wants to hear from people who lived in the same street, went to the same school or even played soccer with him.

A booklet was produced for the 40th anniversary of the Manchester United star’s death but the Rev Geoff Johnston wants to update it.

“People often tell me how they used to play football with Duncan Edwards and it would be nice to include these memories in the new book,” he said.

“The current booklet only gives details of the crash and and Duncan’s rise to fame. It is also out of date, for example there is no picture of the statue of Duncan which stands in the town centre.”

Mr Johnston said he would be getting in touch with Sir Bobby Charlton to invite him to an official unveiling of the new book.

The footballer died in hospital 15 days after the Munich air disaster on February 6 1958. His funeral was held at the church in Laurel Road on February 26.

To mark the anniversary there are also plans to stage a football tournament for young people on the Priory and Wrens Nest and Mr Johnston hopes schools and youth organisations will get involved.

Call 01384 350422 or mail geoff.johnston@blueyonder.co.uk