Northumberland born football legend Sir Bobby Charlton dies aged 86

It has been announced this afternoon former England and Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton passed away at the age of 86.

Born in Ashington, Northumberland, Charlton is a hugely respected figure within English football both within the North East and beyond.

Before joining Manchester United as a teenager in 1953, Charlton played for East Northumberland Schools during his time at Bedlington Grammar School where he was picked up by a scout and signed for the Old Trafford club.

He went on to make over 600 appearances in the North West, helping to forge the club into the institution we know them as today.

His mother’s cousin was also Newcastle United legend Jackie Milburn.

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England’s record goalscorer for over 40 years, his tally of 49 was only beaten in 2015 by Wayne Rooney.

A statement from the family of Sir Bobby said: “It is with great sadness that we share the news that Sir Bobby passed peacefully in the early hours of Saturday morning. He was surrounded by his family.

“His family would like to pass on their thanks to everyone who has contributed to his care and for the many people who have loved and supported him. We would request that the family’s privacy be respected at this time.”

Manchester United said they were mourning “one of the greatest and most beloved players in the history of our club.”

The pinnacle of his club career came in 1968, which Charlton’s Manchester United side won the European Cup ten years after the tragic Munich Air Disaster while his international career peaked as part of the iconic 1966 World Cup squad.