Jack Charlton funeral: Hundreds line streets to pay final respects to England World Cup winner

Hundreds paid tribute ‘Big Jack’, who was an icon at Leeds United and with the Republic of Ireland

Jack Rathborn
Tuesday 21 July 2020 13:08 BST
Comments
World Cup winner Jack Charlton dies aged 85

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Hundreds have lined the streets of Ashington to pay their final respects for Jack Charlton.

The England World Cup winner passed away earlier this month, aged 85, leaving the football world devastated.

And the turnout in Northumberland has demonstrated the overwhelming affection towards ‘Big Jack’.

The funeral cortege, with members of the Charlton family, including Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton, departed on Tuesday morning from his home near Newcastle.

With hundreds displaying handmade signs and flags in tribute, with one reading: “Ashington’s favourite son”.

Well wishers line the streets to pay their respects to Big Jack
Well wishers line the streets to pay their respects to Big Jack (AFP)

Charlton became an icon at Leeds United, spending 19 years at Elland Road, with 762 appearances for the Yorkshire club.

He was also revered at Middlesbrough after guiding the club to the first division as champions.

His legacy as a manager was defined by his success in charge of Republic of Ireland.

Well wishers line the streets of Ashington to pay their respects
Well wishers line the streets of Ashington to pay their respects (Getty)

Irish fans were especially fond of ‘Big Jack’ following two successful World Cup campaigns in 1990 and 1994.

Following his death, a family statement read: “Jack died peacefully on Friday, July 10 at the age of 85. He was at home in Northumberland, with his family by his side.

“As well as a friend to many, he was a much-adored husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

A fan pays tribute to Jack Charlton in Ashington
A fan pays tribute to Jack Charlton in Ashington (AFP)

“We cannot express how proud we are of the extraordinary life he led and the pleasure he brought to so many people in different countries and from all walks of life.

“He was a thoroughly honest, kind, funny and genuine man who always had time for people.

“His loss will leave a huge hole in all our lives but we are thankful for a lifetime of happy memories.”

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in