'champions' Sculpture Unveiled

The roads around West Ham United's Boleyn Ground came to a standstill at 10.30am on Monday morning, as Prince Andrew, HRH The Duke of York, in his capacity as the President of The Football Association, unveiled the 'Champions' sculpture depicting England's 1966 World Cup victory.

The four tonne sculpture of football legends Sir Geoff Hurst MBE, Martin Peters MBE and Ray Wilson MBE holding aloft former England captain Bobby Moore OBE as he proudly displays the Jules Rimet World Cup trophy, is located just yards from the stadium, at the junction of Barking Road and Green Street in Newham, East London.

Bobby Moore, Sir Geoff Hurst and Martin Peters were, of course, all West Ham United players at the time and the sculpture, by renowned British artist Philip Jackson, is a joint project between Newham Council and the Hammers.

Bobby was the England captain on that famous day in July 1966, Geoff Hurst scored his legendary hat-trick and Martin Peters scored England's vital second goal in the 4-2 victory.

West Ham United Chairman Terence Brown said: "The image of Bobby Moore and his team-mates holding the World Cup in ingrained in the nation's memory. It was a defining moment in both England's and West Ham United's history and is an inspiration to us all."

Newham's Mayor, Sir Robin Wales, said: "Winning the World Cup in 1966 was a momentous achievement for the whole of England. This sculpture is a truly fantastic tribute to a team and three West Ham United players in particular, who are respected throughout the world and have a very strong connection with Newham."

Sculptor, Philip Jackson, who also crafted the famous Sir Matt Busby sculpture at Old Trafford, said: "It has been a pleasure working with such a progressive council as Newham and also with such a friendly and forward-thinking club as West Ham United."

After the unveiling ceremony, Prince Andrew visited the Club's Museum and spent some time looking at the Champions collection of medals, caps, shirts and awards won by Moore, Hurst and Peters during their Hammers and England careers.

On his departure, Prince Andrew, wished the Club well in their battle to stay in the Premiership.