Fans gather for film honouring Bobby Robson screened at Ipswich’s Portman Road

PUBLISHED: 09:39 28 May 2018 | UPDATED: 09:40 28 May 2018

Amy Gibbons

Over 1,000 fans and VIPs gathered at Portman Road on Friday night to celebrate the life of Sir Bobby Robson – as guests were treated to an early screening of a film made in honour of the footballing giant.

Sir Bobby’s son, Mark Robson, and England legend Peter Shilton were among those present for the screening of ‘Bobby Robson: More Than A Manager’, co-directed by Gabriel Clarke and Torquil Jones.

Guests started to arrive from 5pm, before enjoying a sit-down dinner and live interviews with a star-studded panel featuring Town legends Terry Butcher, John Wark and Mick Mills – hosted by TV presenter Matt Lorenzo.

The three men, who were all managed by Sir Bobby, spoke about his value as a role model, mentor and friend.

Mr Butcher said: “He gave us the foundations to be who we wanted to be. He was funny when he didn’t mean to be – it was just the way he was.

“He was one of these guys where you forgave him for everything.”

Mr Wark added: “I lost my mum and dad at an early age, and he was a father figure.

“Everything he’s done for me – it’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

Reminiscing about their work together, Mr Mills said: “We were really good together – we really were. He was really approachable – he would almost change his mind on one or two things. As far as I was concerned, he backed me at a really young age, and I really do appreciate that.”

The film had previously received two special stadium screenings at St James’ Park, Newcastle on May 22, and Wembley Stadium, London on May 24.

It will later be released via digital download on June 1, and on DVD and Blu-Ray on June 4.

The documentary charts the Durham-born icon’s life and career – from early days as a player in the 50s, to illustrious managerial years with Ipswich Town, Barcelona, Newcastle United and the England national team, which he led to the semi-finals of the World Cup in 1990.

His establishment of cancer charity the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, a year before his death in 2009, also features in the film, which includes unseen archive footage.

According to Screen Daily, the documentary is funded by private investors, and made with the blessing of Sir Bobby’s family.