Region pays tribute to 'Big Jack' - World Cup winner, Newcastle and Middlesbrough manager, 'true son of the North East'
There has been an outpuring of affection from the world of North East football and beyond following the death of England World Cup winner and former Newcastle and Middlesbrough manager Jack Charlton.
'Big Jack', loved for his good humour as well as his footballing prowess, died surrounded by family at home in Northumberland on Friday.
His death was announced on Saturday morning. Charlton had been diagnosed with lymphoma and dementia. He was 85.
Former Newcastle striker Alan Shearer said: "we should celebrate his life, we should celebrate his career because it was an incredible career. We’ve lost a giant of football today."
A spokesman for Middlesbrough, where Jack started his managerial career in 1973, said: “Middlesbrough FC are saddened to hear the news. Jack was a true gentleman and was liked by everyone who met him.
“He had a great playing career and was a very successful manager, particularly at Middlesbrough, where he guided us to promotion in 1974.
“Our thoughts are with Jack’s family and friends. He was a great football man and he will be sorely missed.”
Jack and brother Bobby grew up in the coillery town of Ashington, Northumberland. The Newcastle legend Jackie Milburn was a cousin. Born to a school teacher and a miner, Jack never forgot his working class roots.
Ian Lavery, the Labour MP for Wansbeck, whose constituency includes Ashington, is calling on the government to award Charlton a posthumous knighthood.