Hrh Duke Of York To Unveil 'champions' Sculpture

West Ham United and the Newham Council are delighted to announce the unveiling of 'The Champions' sculpture, by HRH The Duke of York on Monday, March 24, 2003.

The sculpture, by renowned British artist Philip Jackson, celebrates England's 1966 World Cup triumph and the life of the late Bobby Moore OBE, who sadly died of bowel cancer 10 years ago today (24th February) at the age of 51.

A joint project between Newham Council and West Ham United, the four ton bronze, 'Champions' sculpture, captures the historic sporting moment when Sir Geoff Hurst, Martin Peters and Ray Wilson held the former captain of England aloft, as he proudly displays the famous 1966 Jules Rimet trophy.

The sculpture will be located close to the West Ham United Stadium, opposite the Boleyn Pub at the junction of Barking Road and Green Street in Newham.

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

The unveiling will also be a very proud moment for Terence Brown, Chairman of West Ham United, who said: "The image of Bobby Moore and his team-mates holding the World Cup is 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."

The 'Champions' sculpture, standing at over four metres high, is the largest of its kind in Europe and is expected to become a mecca not only for Hammers supporters, but all football fans from this country and abroad.

The artist Philp Jackson also produced the famous Sir Matt Busby Sculpture at Manchester United's Old Trafford Stadium.