Tributes pour in for Sir Bobby Robson
Leading footballing figures today paid tribute to Sir Bobby Robson, who died this morning aged 76.
Newcastle United managing director Derek Llambias said: "Sir Bobby was one of the game's true footballing legends, a unique, passionate man who gave so much to the game.
"He will be enormously missed by the whole football community worldwide and we extend our sincere condolences to his wife, Elsie, and family.
"We may never see his like again."
Harpal Kumar, chief executive of Cancer Research UK, said: "We are very saddened to hear that Sir Bobby Robson has passed away.
"Sir Bobby was a hugely valued and strong supporter of Cancer Research UK over many years, particularly in his native North East.
"We are very grateful for all that he helped us with and for the impact this will have on cancer patients and their families in the future.
"He approached everything he did with enthusiasm and commitment, making a significant contribution to Cancer Research UK's work by supporting the charity's fundraising and awareness campaigns.
"In recent years Sir Bobby set himself a new goal. He launched the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation to support clinical trials of promising new treatments to tackle cancer.
"The first £500,000 raised by the Foundation is being used to fund dedicated research facilities at the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre in Newcastle upon Tyne, which will enable Cancer Research UK to undertake clinical trials of new treatments.
"But perhaps more than anything, Sir Bobby was a personal inspiration to anyone dealing with cancer.
"Throughout his treatment, he approached the disease with courage and determination.
"Sir Bobby once described those working to find a cure for cancer as 'heroes'.
"Today we have lost another hero, both on and off the pitch, and one who will be much missed by many."
Sir Bobby was a delight to work with for football writers, a sports writer said.
