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CBE honour for Jimmy
FOOTBALL great Jimmy Armfield has received a few medals in his time, but few as grand as this.
The former England and Seasiders' captain was presented with the prestigious Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) honour by Her Majesty The Queen at Buckingham Palace.
The modest 74-year-old, who has fought a successful battle against cancer, said: "I'm very grateful for the award – and just grateful to be here!"
In 2000 Jimmy received the OBE for services to football. The CBE recognises his varied work in the community.
Glenn Bowley, chairman of Blackpool Supporters' Association, said: "It's fantastic and thoroughly deserved. Jimmy has become known because of his football career with Blackpool and England, but he's given so much back to the community.
"This award recognises all the community work he does and all the organisations he's involved in – Age Concern, Lancashire Partnership Against Crime, the hospice and hospitals. So many times you see him presenting someone with a prize or opening a new scheme. It's wonderful."
Jimmy won 43 caps for England between 1959 and 1966, and captained the country on 15 occasions. After hanging up his boots, Jimmy took on managerial positions before deciding to work in the media and taking on the role of match summariser for BBC Radio 5 Live.
Blackpool Supporters' Association is hoping to raise 100,000 to create a life-size statue of Jimmy. They have already hit the 10,000 mark and are planning fundraising events throughout the year.
The Seasiders' new South Stand, which will be opened on March 20, is named in his honour.
Mr Bowley added: "Blackpool gave him his chance and he has rewarded the town with his endless amounts of good work. The statue will be a fitting tribute to a great man."
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Weather for Blackpool
Friday 25 May 2012
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Temperature: 13 C to 24 C
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