The Day I Met George Best
We are constantly amazed by the ammount of people who come to us with stories about the day they met George. If you have a story and maybe a photograph we would love to hear it.
The following story was submitted by Colin Rothwell, who has been an ardent fan of George's for many years. So much so that he flew to Belfast with his brother in November 2005 to be at George's funeral. Norman and I are delighted to have met Colin now on three occasions. The first time was in Manchester Cathedral on the 16th March 2006 at George's memorial service, and then again in Manchester on the 22nd May at the fundraising evening organized by MUST and IMUSA at Sam Platts just around the corner from Old Trafford. The last meeting (and hopefully not the final one) was in Manchester on 28th April at yet again another fundraising event which was carried out for the Foundation by FC United at Gigg Lane, Bury
Here is Colin's story.
I would like to share a story with you if I may. I was 17 years old and had paid a visit to Old Trafford one weekday. We had family on holiday from Australia so I took them to the ground to watch the grass grow as I often used to do.
Whilst at the ground, a man came through the player's entrance and asked me to tell the guy in the mini waiting at the top of the forecourt that George was ready. I asked "George who" to which he replied "Best" So I ran to the car to find Bobby McAlinden sat waiting and told him that George was ready. He then drove down the hill to the ground. I suddenly realized that I could miss seeing my one and only hero and ran like the wind back to the ground. I don't think I ever ran as fast in all of my life.
When I got there George came out of the entrance and I breathlessly asked for his autograph. Whilst doing this a photographer from the Daily Express appeared and started to take photographs. I asked if I could get one taken and knelt on the ground at the side of the car with George in the passenger seat. A couple of pictures were taken and then George was off. I asked the photographer which paper they would be in and he told me. He said I wouldn't be in the paper but he took my name and address and a few days later the photos arrived!!
The best one still adorns the wall in our house. I am now forty-six years of age and have four sons, one called Calum. All four of them play football. Most lads I know have many heroes but I only had, and still only have one. BESTIE.
Thanks for letting me share my story with you and good luck with the George Best Foundation
Best Regards,
Colin
And you haven't changed a bit, Colin!
