George was an inspiration to footballers
Tributes have been paid to a teacher who inspired a generation of footballers.
Charles Milburn, who has died at the age of 89, guided a team from West Southwick School to become town champions in 1966 and claim the Durham County Benevolent and Orphan Shield.
His sporting career got off to a less than auspicious start while playing for Sunderland Boys, as the goal keeper mistook his head for the ball during a spectacular save, which resulted in him being stretchered off to the horror of his proud mum, who had turned up for the first time to watch him play.
Trying his hand at boxing in the army proved no more successful, with Charles hanging up his gloves with the grand title of best loser, a fat nose and the last man’s prize of a five shilling special 1951 crown.
Sunderland AFC was his passion, as daughter Beverly recalls: “As a family we experienced the highs and lows of Sunderland football and I will remember with fondness my father’s allconsuming excitement at the Wembley cup final and going to London as a family for big day,” she said.
John Lathan, who would go on to to play for Sunderland, netted two goals in the 5-1 victory in front of 1,500 spectators at Wearmouth Colliery Welfare.
“I was extremely proud of all of the lads that day,” said Charles.
JohnLathansaid:“MrMilburn was a major influence in mylifeandcareer,andthefirst real-time coach who actually hadanimpactonmyplaying.”
Beverly added:“We would like to thank everybody for the kind words and thoughts over this last few weeks, and especially the memories from the West Southwick under 15’s team.”
Mr Milburn is survived by wife Verna. A funeral service will be held at Sunderland Crematorium at 11.30am tomorrow. Donations to the Kidney Foundation.