Legends leading campaign
WORLD Cup legends Sir Geoff Hurst and Gordon Banks OBE have teamed up again to take on a new formidable foe dementia.
And they are urging the public to join them as they revealed they are taking part in a tribute to three of their teammates from that glorious 1966 win who are now living with the condition.
The two heroes made an emotional return to the scene of their triumph, Wembley Stadium, in a new TV ad fronting the campaign, which will air for the first time today (Wednesday 26 April).
It will run for six weeks as part of the biggest campaign and fundraising push Alzheimer’s Society has ever undertaken and will see the pair sharing their experiences and fond memories of being a part of the victorious World Cup Squad which included Ashington brothers Jack and Bobby Charlton and Norman Hunter from Gateshead.
It will also see them reminisce about playing with fellow team mates Martin Peters, Nobby Styles and Ray Wilson, all of whom now live with dementia.
Gordon, whose brother David died with dementia in 2012, and Sir Geoff, are urging the British public to come together and unite against dementia, for the sake of urgently improving care, offering more support and understanding and finding a cure.
Talking about his support for Alzheimer’s Society Sir Geoff, who famously scored a hat-trick in England’s 4-2 win over West Germany, said: “It’s devastating to see Britain’s heroes – our World Cup colleagues and the people we grew up with – living with Alzheimer’s.
“I’ve found it incredibly difficult to see my former team-mate Martin Peters, who I’ve known since the age of 17 and grew up with at West Ham going through it. It has completely changed my understanding of dementia and how it affects people.
“I’m delighted to be backing this campaign and raising awareness and vital funds for a cause incredibly close to my heart. It’s so important for the nation to unite and support Alzheimer’s Society – not just for our heroes and friends, but for the hundreds of thousands of people affected by this cruel condition. By donating, people can help fund