sir bobby robson foundation

MONSTER ROCK CHALLENGE FOR SIR BOBBY ROBSON FOUNDATION

2012-01-26T14:04:00.000-08:00

A mighty challenge entitled Monsters of Rock is being laid before fans of North East rock music.

The marathon gig of nine straight hours of live music will feature 10 bands ranging from popular up and coming acts to well known names on the regional rock circuit. They will be playing a raucous mix of original material and cover versions at Shildon Civic Hall on Saturday 25th February.

The event is in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and is being organised by musician Russ Tippins in memory of live music enthusiast Ronnie Patchett - the man Russ describes as having been the ‘constant face in the crowd.’

Russ explains: “I had the idea for this tribute on the day of Ronnie’s funeral. He used to say to me ‘I wonder what kind of gigs there’ll be after I’m gone’ and I wanted to do something in his memory and which would also help other people fighting cancer.

“He was a huge supporter of live music and Ronnie and his wife Sue were practically permanent fixtures at any rock gig locally. We’re holding this event on the first anniversary of the day we lost him as a tribute.

“The bands will appeal to anyone one enjoys live rock music and we’re laying down a challenge to true rock enthusiasts to support us for the full nine hours. There’s a bar and diner at the hall to help fuel those brave enough to attempt it.”

Ronnie Patchett, from Ferryhill, worked for the Coal Board for many years and died from bowel cancer aged just 54. He was diagnosed in November 2009 and was given the opportunity to trial a new drug at the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre.

As well as being a great fan of live music Ronnie also enjoyed spending time outdoors and was very active in his local community, becoming a school governor as well as a Councillor for Ferryhill and later for the Borough of Sedgefield.

Ronnie’s wife of 34 years, Sue, and daughter Amy will be attending the Monsters of Rock, while son Marc will be taking an active role in proceedings by opening the event with his band Guards of Eden.

Sue is looking forward to the event and believes it will be an emotional occasion for everyone who knew Ronnie.

Sue says: “It’s very hard for us all without Ronnie. He had two young granddaughters and we’d just started taking long haul holidays and visited India, China and Brazil. It was like the next part of his life had begun and Russ had even inspired him to learn to play guitar.

“He’d just begun to spread his wings and when we had the cancer diagnosis it was a terrible blow. It was too late to try standard cancer treatment so we leapt at the chance to try a new drug through the Sir Bobby Robson Centre.

“He was only 54 when he died but he packed an awful lot into those 54 years. He was full of life and an inspiration to his family.

“When Russ explained what he wanted to do to raise money for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation I thought it was a very appropriate way to remember Ronnie.

“He received excellent care at the Sir Bobby Centre and found the staff there really supportive.

“The Monsters of Rock event will be a great occasion for rock music fans and I know Ronnie would’ve loved it.”

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation was launched by Sir Bobby and Lady Elsie in March 2008 to help find more effective treatments for cancer including the clinical trials of new drugs within the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care, Freeman Hospital in Newcastle.

Over 1,000 patients have been treated on clinical trials since the Sir Bobby Robson Centre opened in February 2009 and an additional 1,000 patients have been enrolled in other research studies, studying the biology and genetics of cancer to help develop and improve treatments.

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation funds projects within the Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which directly benefit cancer patients from across the north east and Cumbria and contribute significantly into wider research into the disease.

It has equipped the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre and funded a specialist clinical research nurse and research doctor within it.

Most recently the Foundation made a record contribution of £625,000 to fund an ultra-compact ABT Molecular Imaging Biomarker Generator, which is only the second of its type in the world and the first in Europe. The Biomarker Generator uses radioactive tracers to help with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and will be installed and ready to treat patients by the summer.

Monsters of Rock is taking place on Saturday 25th February at Shildon Civic Hall and will include a raffle and auction. It will feature The Force, Black Rose, Sabbatica, The Russ Tippins Electric Band, The Last Fakers, The Karma Heart, Presence, Big River, Guards of Eden and The Silence.

Doors open 2.30pm and close at 12.30am. Tickets cost £10 and are available in advance from the venue and online at www.ronington.co.uk.

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND THANK YOU FROM EVERYBODY AT THE SIR BOBBY ROBSON FOUNDATION

2011-12-23T01:07:00.001-08:00

By Tom Chaplin, Writer in Residence

I'll be honest - I'd never seen or even heard of a Biomarker Generator or an ultra compact cyclotron as it is sometimes known, and I certainly didn't know how they work! I didn't know its complex radioactive shield weighed a colossal nine tonnes and I wasn't aware that buying and installing one would cost you the best part of £1.2m.

But this Christmas the Foundation are getting ready to unwrap a pretty special Christmas present to itself and its partners working in cancer care in the North East and Cumbria. This piece of truly cutting edge, specialist equipment will benefit many fighting cancer and amazingly is only the second of its type in the world and the first in Europe.

With its largest single investment to date the Foundation was able to contribute £625,000 to the purchase of the machine with a further, equally large contribution coming from Newcastle University.

The Foundation's contribution was only possible as a result of the hard work, generosity, passion and courage of patients, their families, fundraisers and supporters and it is to you that we would like to say thank you and wish you a very special, merry Christmas.

Sir Bobby's family and everyone connected to the Foundation is and always has been moved by the lengths fundraisers young and old are prepared to go to: from cake sales to Charity Balls, Great North runners to fancy dress days, you do a wonderful job and make us all so proud. Please, keep doing what you are doing - it is truly remarkable, incredibly worthwhile and very very much appreciated.

We hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year!

GENEROUS CHRISTMAS GIFT FROM FUND-RAISERS

2011-12-22T09:01:00.000-08:00

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation received a very generous Christmas present this week when volunteer fund-raiser Gina Long presented a cheque for £102,112, bringing the total raised for the cancer charity to over £3.9 million.

Gina was the driving force behind Sir Bobby’s Breakthrough Auction, the hugely successful online auction and charity ball organised jointly in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

She travelled from her home in Suffolk to the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre in Newcastle upon Tyne to officially present Lady Elsie Robson with the money raised.

Accompanied by her husband Andrew, Adam Clark and Clare Morley, who were part of the team of volunteers that delivered Sir Bobby’s Breakthrough Auction, presenting the cheque was a moving occasion for Gina who organised the auction in memory of Sir Bobby and breast cancer campaigner Sally Balch.

She says: “Thankfully Sir Bobby’s Breakthrough Auction became a massive success with support from all over the world.

“That’s because my dear friends Sir Bobby and Sally, who I was so privileged to have enjoyed special times with over many years, were both extraordinary people. They both lived their lives inspiring those around them and certainly made the world a better place.

“Along with thanking the brilliant auction committee, I want to thank the donors of the magnificent prizes, the bidders and all our incredible sponsors who helped make this event such an amazing success.

“We are looking forward to having another Sir Bobby’s Auction and Ball in October 2013 and we hope it will be even bigger than the first!”

Over £50,000 was raised at Sir Bobby’s Breakthrough Ball, which was held in Bury St Edmunds in October and attended by Lady Elsie and Sir Bobby Robson Foundation Patrons Mick Mills and Delia Smith.

All other funds were raised through the online auction which featured 188 incredible lots including television, driving and sporting experiences, sports memorabilia, luxury treats and holidays. It was supported by all of Sir Bobby’s former teams, all the Premier League clubs, Celtic, Rangers and representatives from the world of rugby, horse racing, snooker, tennis, cricket and more.

Gary Lineker, Ant and Dec, Katherine Jenkins, Graeme Swann, Sir Alex Ferguson, Arsene Wenger, Denise Welch, Andre Villas-Boas, Harry Redknapp and Fabio Capello are just some of the high profile names who donated very special prizes and helped make the auction such a success.

The star lot was Jose Mourinho`s `FIFA Ballon D`Or` World Coach of the Year Award trophy, which raised a staggering £26,000.

Other prizes included:

• FC Barcelona experience with personal presentation by Josep `Pep` Guardiola
• David Beckham signed shirt and ball
• Middlesbrough FC, Newcastle United FC and Sunderland AFC VIP match day experiences
• Watching an England training session with Fabio Capello and signed shirt presentation
• Silver replica of the cup ‘Taca de Portugal’, won by FC Porto under management of Sir Bobby
• Two tickets to the final of Britain`s Got Talent 2012
• Tickets to Katherine Jenkins Daydream tour and a meet and greet after the show
• Behind the scenes tour of the BBC Match of the Day studios with Gary Lineker
• Ipswich Town FC experience playing on the Portman Road turf
• A Loose Women ‘experience’ as guests of Denise Welch

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation was launched by Sir Bobby and Lady Elsie in March 2008 to help find more effective treatments for cancer including the clinical trials of new drugs within the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care, Freeman Hospital in Newcastle.

Over 1,000 patients have been treated on clinical trials since the Sir Bobby Centre opened in February 2009 and an additional 1,000 patients have been enrolled in other research studies, studying the biology and genetics of cancer to help develop and improve treatments.

Last week (13th December) the charity announced delivery of a cutting-edge piece of cancer treatment and research equipment purchased through a record £625,000 contribution from the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

The ultra-compact ABT Molecular Imaging Biomarker Generator is only the second of its type in the world and the first in Europe and will help with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and other serious diseases including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

It is being installed within Newcastle University, which has invested a further £600,000, to create a specialist environment in the School of Chemistry to house the new equipment.

Lady Elsie says: “This has been a very positive year for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and I hope everyone who has helped out in any way shares my pride at our achievements together.

“My family and I greatly appreciate the support we continue to receive and getting together with Gina and the team behind Sir Bobby’s Breakthrough Auction is a wonderful way to round off 2011.

“They have worked so hard, and on a voluntary basis, to help us raise money and I’m extremely grateful to them all. To have raised over £200,000 for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and Breakthrough Breast Cancer is an absolutely magnificent achievement.”

2012 YORKSHIRE CHARITY FARMHOUSE BIG BREAKFAST

2011-12-20T07:35:00.000-08:00

The countdown has begun to Yorkshire’s annual charity Farmhouse Big Breakfast in the New Year.

Hosting the three-day fund-raiser in 2012 are John and Mary Pearson, who run award-winning Lovesome Hill Farm B&B, Northallerton, with help from fellow members of Herriot Farm Stay Group. Farm Stay UK is Britain’s biggest network of farm-based accommodation providers.

Big Breakfast will return on January 24 to 26, with morning and afternoon sittings catering for up to 150 Big Breakfast guests.

Three charities will benefit from each day’s proceeds - the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, the Farm Crisis Network, which supports problem-hit farming people and families, and Northallerton-based Herriot Hospice Homecare, which serves patients with life limiting illness throughout Hambleton and Richmondshire.

Over the years, Yorkshire Farm Stay members have hosted and raised thousands of pounds for charity through the annual Big Breakfast beano. Once again, hearty Yorkshire farmhouse breakfasts will be served up at Lovesome Hill Farm, with all food sourced on the doorstep in support of local suppliers.

Local businesses and food suppliers have already offered to support the event through sponsorship and product donations. They include Barclays Bank, Darlington, Lloyds TSB Agriculture, Cummins Young Accountants, Thirsk, fellow Farm Stay member Crakehall Water Mill, Stamfrey Farm, Northallerton, Acorn Dairy, Archdeacon Newton, Spring House Farm Shop, Scruton, JM & S Greengrocers, Northallerton, Beavers Butchers, Masham, Yorkshire Dales Meat Co, Patrick Brompton, and Shortridge in Topcliffe.

Big Breakfast sittings on all three days will be held from 10.00-11.30am and 1.00-2.30pm. Tickets, priced at £15, are available from Mary Pearson on 01609 772311, e-mail lovesomehillfarm@btinternet.com

“The 2012 event is already creating a great deal of advance interest. We are now open for Big Breakfast bookings, while other offers of sponsorship and food donations will also be welcome,” said Mrs Pearson.

Lovesome Hill, which received a ‘Flavours of Hambleton’ accolade in the 2007 Breakfast of the Year Awards, is a mixed beef and sheep farm, rearing Aberdeen Angus beef cattle, along with Mule and Masham sheep, and Hampshire-cross pigs on behalf of a neighbouring farmer.

“Some of their bacon will be on the Big Breakfast menu, so you can’t get more local than that!” added Mrs Pearson.

FAMILY'S CHARITY EVENT RAISES £4,500

2011-12-19T03:42:00.000-08:00

A North East businessman’s charity night involving family and friends has raised over £4,500 for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. Chris Lines, a director of PR and marketing agency Press Ahead, arranged the event at Sedgefield Racecourse in memory of his mother Margaret Lines, who died of cancer two years ago.

Over 130 people turned up to the fundraiser, where they were entertained by leading North East band the Emerald Thieves. Hundreds more people bought tickets for a special raffle that was linked to the event, with a line up of sporting prizes donated by David Beckham, Andy Murray, Steve Cram, Sir Chris Bonington, Newcastle Racecourse, Durham County Cricket Club, Berghaus, Sunderland AFC, Pulman Volkswagen and many others.

All proceeds from ticket sales for the event and raffle have been donated to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. On Friday, Chris, accompanied by his 92-year-old grandmother Lillian Smith, his father Peter Lines and sister Kate English, presented a cheque to Lady Elsie Robson.

During the last two years, Chris and Kate have committed themselves to raising money for the charity. Following two Great North Runs, the recent event and raffle were the latest initiatives in an ongoing fundraising effort. Margaret Lines was cared for at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care in Freeman Hospital, which is also the home of the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre.

Lady Elsie says: "It was a great pleasure to meet Margaret’s family. They’re doing a wonderful job of raising money for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and I’m very grateful for their support. I have no doubt Margaret would be very proud of their efforts in helping other people fighting cancer."

Chris adds: “I was delighted with the outcome of my event and raffle and am really grateful for the support I received from family, friends and colleagues. In the greater scheme of things, £4,500 might not seem to be a huge amount, but it’s a bigger total than I expected and I know that it will be put to excellent use by the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. The money that we raised will play its role in helping to improve the early detection and treatment of cancer – knowing that fact makes all of the hard work involved feel more than worthwhile.”

‘FIRST IN EUROPE’ CANCER EQUIPMENT DELIVERED

2011-12-14T02:40:00.001-08:00

A cutting-edge piece of cancer treatment and research equipment purchased through a record £625,000 contribution from the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation is being installed this week in Newcastle upon Tyne.

The ultra-compact ABT Molecular Imaging Biomarker Generator is only the second of its type in the world and the first in Europe and will help with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and other serious diseases including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

It is being installed within Newcastle University, which has invested a further £600,000, to create a ‘specialist environment’ in the School of Chemistry to house the new equipment.

The Biomarker Generator will play a significant role in the development of new cancer treatments and its delivery is a very proud day for everyone involved with the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

Lady Elsie says: “It’s wonderful to see this piece of equipment actually becoming a reality and being prepared for use.

“We rely on the cancer expertise of our medical trustees who are always looking for promising new treatments which could make a real difference to people currently fighting cancer as well as helping with research into the disease. And when they explained the benefits of the Biomarker Generator to my family and I we shared their enthusiasm.

“It’s a very significant investment for our charity, the largest we’ve made so far, and something we simply couldn’t have done without the incredible support we receive.

"It's truly humbling when you think about the many thousands of donations and fund-raising events which have gone into making this happen.

“We’re extremely grateful to every fund-raiser and every single person who makes a donation and will continue to ensure the money is invested in the very best possible way.

“I’m very proud that the charity which my husband launched is continuing to make such a difference for other people fighting cancer. He would share my fervent hope that this equipment helps to save lives.”

The Biomarker Generator creates radioactive tracers which are given to patients who then undergo scans, which is also known as imaging. The information collected through this imaging helps doctors understand where the disease is in each patient, how serious the disease is, and the underlying processes and pathways that are sustaining the illness. The tracers can also be used to see whether a new drug has penetrated a tumour and whether a new treatment is damaging the tumour cells and stopping them growing.

Herbie Newell, Professor of Cancer Therapeutics at the Newcastle Cancer Centre at the Northern Institute for Cancer Research, Newcastle University, says: “The Biomarker Generator is cutting-edge technology that will allow us to make sure that we deliver the best possible care for each patient we treat, whilst learning at the same time as much as possible about our new drugs.”

Tom Welch, President and CEO of ABT Molecular Imaging, Inc., producer of the Biomarker Generator, says: “ABT is honoured to be associated with the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and is excited to be a collaborative partner of Newcastle University in their efforts to advance cancer research.”

Funding for the Biomarker Generator was made possible thanks to fantastic ongoing support for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, the cancer charity Sir Bobby Robson launched in 2008.

It is continuing to fulfil Sir Bobby’s ambition to help find more effective treatments for cancer and to focus on new treatments which directly benefit people currently fighting the disease as well playing an important role in wider research into the disease.

LEE NELSON WINNING BIIDDER FOR SAFC VIP BOX

2011-12-07T02:39:00.000-08:00

Congratulations and thanks to Lee Nelson of Wearside Interiors Ltd for his winning bid of £600 to enjoy Martin O’Neill’s managerial debut at the Stadium of Light in a VIP box.

Lee will be taking his family to the Sunderland AFC v Blackburn Rovers game on Sunday as a festive treat.

Sunderland kindly donated the Stadium of Light VIP experience for this weekend’s game to Sir Bobby’s Breakthrough Auction, the online auction which recently raised over £200,000 for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

However, due to unforeseen circumstances the original winner of the lot was unable to attend the game so it was auctioned again at very short notice.

The VIP match experience includes a private box and balcony for 10 people for Sunderland v Blackburn Rovers a buffet meal served in the box before kick-off, use of the Magic Moments Bar pre and post match (drinks not included), a match day programme per person and two car park passes for the fixture.

Thanks again to Lee and to Sunderland AFC for their generosity.

Since Sir Bobby and Lady Elsie launched the charity in 2008, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has raised over £3.5 million to help find more effective treatments for cancer.

It funds projects within the Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which directly benefit cancer patients from across the north east and Cumbria, including the clinical trials of drugs at the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre.

DONATIONS MADE IN MEMORY OF GARY SPEED

2011-12-06T04:25:00.000-08:00

Ahead of Gary Speed’s private funeral service on Friday, Louise Speed has asked for any donations made in his memory to come to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation or the John Hartson Foundation – two cancer charities which Gary strongly supported.

Last year Gary took on a new challenge and raised over £7,500 for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation by running the London Marathon. He also attended the Foundation’s golf day in April at Rockliffe Hall, Darlington.

Lady Elsie Robson commented: “I’m extremely touched by the request for donations in Gary’s memory to come to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation or John Hartson Foundation.

“To be thinking about other people like that at such a difficult time is incredible and I understand Louise believes it’s what Gary would have wanted.

“I’m very grateful and my thoughts will very much be with Gary’s family and friends on Friday.”

More information and donations to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation can be made at www.sirbobbyrobsonfoundation.org.uk and www.johnhartsonfoundation.com for the John Harston Foundation.

Gary Speed

2011-11-27T07:02:00.000-08:00

Commenting on the tragic death of Gary Speed, Lady Elsie Robson said “I’m very shocked and very sad.

“Gary was a lovely boy and Bob thought a lot about him as a player and as a person.

“He regarded him with great respect and he was such an important part of the team Bob had at Newcastle.

“He was a wonderful and generous supporter of our charity and seemed to have a bright future ahead of him.

“I hope those who loved him don’t suffer too much.”

Gary most recently supported the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation by attending the charity’s golf day in April and he also undertook the London Marathon to help raise funds.

He will be a great miss.

BORO FANS BACKING SIR BOBBY AND FIGHTING CANCER

2011-11-10T06:28:00.000-08:00

Generous Middlesbrough fans have raised an incredible £13,416.36 to fight cancer by playing football at the Riverside Stadium.

The charity match was the third organised in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation by Andy Clark, a national fuel manager from Billingham, bringing the total raised for the north east cancer charity to over £28,000.

Organised through the website of popular Middlesbrough fanzine Fly Me To The Moon, the game in May included ex Boro players Bernie Slaven, Craig Hignett, Colin Cooper, Marlon Beresford, Neil Maddison and Nicky Mohan. It attracted an enthusiastic crowd of family and friends who generated a lively atmosphere and went on to enjoy a post match celebration in the club’s Legend’s Lounge.

The match was strongly contested and the score after 90 minutes stood at 2-2 with goals from Neil Maddison and Eddie Woodall for the home side with Paul Kell and Johnathon Gallagher scoring for the away side.

The home side won the match on penalties after scoring an injury time equaliser after a dubious penalty decision threatened to leave them on the losing side, a fitting end to a keenly contested match.

Andy says: “it was a fantastic night that will live long in the memory of those involved thanks to the ex Boro players who came along to support the cause and the Boro fans groups Twe12th Man and Red Faction who gave fanatical vocal support from the stands.

“Last years’ match was a great success but this years’ match managed to top it and even beat total raised despite the current tough economic climate.

“Thanks must also go to Janice Foley for holding an art auction which helped boost the fundraising total by around £2,000 and local producer Nick Small who produced a commemorative DVD of the evening which raised several hundred pounds. Plans are already afoot to organise one final match to go out with a flourish!"

Andy and Rob Nichols, editor of Fly Me to the Moon, met with Middlesbrough FC chairman Steve Gibson to officially present the money raised.

Steve is a Patron of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, which directly benefits cancer patients from across the north east and Cumbria.

Steve Gibson says: “Once again, this was a fantastic effort by a big-hearted group of Boro supporters.

"I was deeply touched when I was asked to be a patron of Sir Bobby's Foundation and I'm delighted Middlesbrough FC's involvement is already making a real difference in raising funds for such a wonderful cause."

SIR BOBBY'S BREAKTHROUGH AUCTION RAISES £202,774 TO FIGHT CANCER

2011-10-24T06:32:00.000-07:00

Sir Bobby's Breakthrough Auction ended last night (Sunday 23 October) and raised an incredible £202,774 for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

The auction, and a ball in Suffolk held on Thursday (20th October), were organised by volunteer fund-raiser Gina Long in memory of Sir Bobby Robson and her friend breast cancer campaigner Sally Balch.

Gina is rightly proud of what has been achieved and says: "Sir Bobby's Breakthrough Auction and Ball has been a magnificent success.

"This has all been made possible because of the enormous love and respect for Sir Bobby Robson, who I was privileged to call a great friend.

"So many football clubs wanted to do their bit to honour Sir Bobby and the support from auction prize donors, sponsors, individuals, companies and the generous bidders have helped make it a huge success and way beyond our wildest dreams.

"I did this in memory of Sir Bobby and my beautiful friend Sally Balch who lost her battle with breast cancer. I hope the fantastic auction committee, who have worked so hard, have done them justice."

Over £50,000 was raised at Sir Bobby's Breakthrough Ball, which was held in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, and attended by Lady Elsie Robson and Sir Bobby Robson Foundation Patrons Mick Mills and Delia Smith.

All other funds were raised through the two week online auction which featured 188 incredible lots including television, driving and sporting experiences, sports memorabilia, luxury treats, dining, jewellery, clothing and holidays. It was supported by Sir Bobby's former teams, football clubs as far away as Oregon, USA, and representatives from the world of rugby, horse racing, golf, snooker, tennis, cricket and more.

Sir Alex Ferguson, Gary Lineker, Ant and Dec, Katherine Jenkins, Graeme Swann, Josep ‘Pep’ Guardiola, Arsene Wenger, Denise Welch, Andre Villas-Boas, Harry Redknapp and Fabio Capello are just some of the high profile names who donated very special prizes and helped make the auction such a success.

The star lot was Jose Mourinho's FIFA Ballon D'Or World Coach of the Year Award 2010 trophy, which raised a staggering £26,000.

Other prizes included:

• FC Barcelona experience with personal presentation by Josep ‘Pep’ Guardiola
• Two match tickets and hospitality at 2012 UEFA Champions League final
• David Beckham signed shirt and ball
• Wimbledon Centre Court tickets to the 2012 Championship
• Watch England training session with Fabio Capello and signed shirt presentation
• A silver replica of the cup ‘Taca de Portugal,’ won by FC Porto under the management of Sir Bobby
• Ipswich Town FC experience to play on the Portman Road turf and be coached by legendary player
• Two tickets to the final of Britain`s Got Talent 2012
• Red Arrows VIP day at RAF Scampton
• England rugby shirt and tickets to a 6 nations game
• Customised vintage Milner safe, professionally restored with a Newcastle United legends theme
• Tickets to Katherine Jenkins Daydream tour and a meet and greet after the show
• Behind the scenes tour of the BBC Match of the Day studios with Gary Lineker
• Create your own genuine Branston Pickle experience
• Tea for two and a tour of the House of Commons
• Luxury Grand Bahama island holiday
• A Loose Women TV experience as guests of Denise Welch
• Luxury three bedroom villa holiday in Carvoeiro, Western Algarve, Portugal
• VIP football experiences at Rangers, Celtic, Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Doncaster Rovers, Hull City, Cardiff City, Swansea, Millwall, Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, Queens Park Rangers, Crystal Palace, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest, Coventry City, Blackburn Rovers, West Ham United, Colchester United, Burnley, Fulham, Ipswich Town, West Bromwich Albion, Birmingham City, Bolton, Wigan, Sheffield United, Bristol City, Watford, Norwich City, Derby County, Liverpool, Everton, Leicester City, Middlesbrough, Newcastle United, Sunderland AFC, Porto, PSV Eindhoven, Sporting Lisbon, and Portland Timbers (Oregon, USA) football clubs

Lady Elsie Robson says: "Sir Bobby's Breakthrough Auction has taken a tremendous amount of effort. My family and I are extremely grateful to Gina for her vision, hard work and enthusiasm in creating this ambitious charity venture.

"We're also very appreciative of all the many people who have pitched in and helped by volunteering their time, expertise and incredible auction prizes.

"When my husband and I launched our charity in 2008 Bob said he felt like he was at the helm of a team again. What he called his last and greatest team and taking on a challenge far greater than any football match.

"We began with the aim to equip a centre to trial new cancer drugs and we've been able to fulfil that ambition and do so much more.

"Our medical trustees are always looking for the next breakthrough, the next promising investment into cancer equipment or training. Always looking to fulfil Bob's ambition to provide truly world class facilities for others fighting cancer.

"Sadly cancer affects us all in one way or another, but with us all pulling together, one day we will beat it."

DELIA SMITH BECOMES A PATRON OF THE SIR BOBBY ROBSON FOUNDATION

2011-10-20T00:19:00.000-07:00

Delia Smith CBE, Britain's best selling cookery writer and joint majority shareholder in Norwich City Football Club, will tonight (20th October) be announced as a Patron of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation at a dinner to raise funds for the charity.

Sir Bobby’s Breakthrough Ball at The Apex in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, will also raise money for Breakthrough Breast Cancer and Lady Elsie Robson is taking the opportunity to announce Delia’s new role.

Lady Elsie says: “After my husband died I asked a small group of friends if they would help support our ongoing efforts fighting cancer through the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

“Delia was one of those people and, very kindly, she immediately agreed. Since then we’ve been waiting for an appropriate occasion to announce her support.

“It’s taken a bit longer than any of us had planned and I’m happy that we’re finally in a position to thank Delia publicly for her behind the scenes support. Sir Bobby’s Breakthrough Ball will be a wonderful event and a very fitting occasion to welcome Delia formally as a Patron of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.”

Sir Bobby and Lady Elsie launched the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation in March 2008 to help find more effective ways to treat and diagnose cancer. It funds projects which directly benefit cancer patients including the clinical trials of new drugs at the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre in Newcastle upon Tyne.

Delia joins a select group of high profile supporters as a Patron of the charity. Sir Bobby’s Ipswich Town captain Mick Mills, Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer, Sunderland AFC’s Niall Quinn and Middlesbrough FC chairman Steve Gibson all generously contribute in that role.

Delia says: “Sir Bobby was a great friend and inspiration to me for many years, and it is a privilege to help continue the magnificent work he and Elsie started in any way I can.

“Cancer knows no boundaries, and it is wonderful that this is one struggle in which all football clubs have united. This evening is just one step towards the ultimate aim – of eradicating the scourge of this disease.

“It will happen, and by supporting Sir Bobby’s Breakthrough Auction and Ball we can make it happen sooner rather than later. I look forward to a record-breaking evening.”

Sir Bobby’s Breakthrough Ball and Sir Bobby’s Breakthrough Auction aim to raise £250,000 for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

The online auction has attracted 160 lots which include unforgettable sporting and television experiences, unique memorabilia donated by some of the biggest names in football and incredible luxury holidays.

Football clubs across the UK, and as far away as the USA, have donated genuinely ‘money can’t buy’ prizes and the auction has the support of all of Sir Bobby’s teams.

Lady Elsie adds: “One of the greatest strengths of our charity, and something I know my husband was immensely proud of, is the way football clubs have joined together to back our cause.

“In his last book, Bob wrote that cancer takes no account of your team, your age or anything else and the wonderful support we’re receiving from football clubs all over the world reflects that. We’re extremely grateful to Delia and all the football clubs and fans who are contributing to our fight against cancer.”

Norwich City is generously contributing to Sir Bobby’s Breakthrough Auction by offering the opportunity to present the Anglian Home Improvements Player of the Month Award on the pitch at Carrow Road. The prize also includes two tickets to the Premier League fixture between Norwich City and Sir Bobby’s former club Newcastle United on Saturday 10th December and a meal at the Gunn Club.

For more details on Sir Bobby’s Breakthrough Auction or to make a donation please go to www.sirbobbysbreakthroughauction.com or follow via Twitter @sirbobbyauction.

The majority of auction lots end on Sunday 23rd October although a small number will be completed at the Ball tonight.

SIR BOBBY'S BREAKTHROUGH AUCTION KICKS OFF

2011-10-08T00:41:00.000-07:00

A fantastic online auction with over 130 fantastic prizes that aims to raise £250,000 for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and Breakthrough Breast Cancer officially begins on Saturday 8 October.

An array of priceless sporting memorabilia donated by luminaries at home and abroad head the fabulous auction which runs for two weeks at www.sirbobbysbreakthroughauction.com.

The likes of Brazil legend Pele, Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola and the great Sir Alex Ferguson and other football royalty have donated auction items – highlighting the impact Sir Bobby had on the world game.

His former clubs, Newcastle and Ipswich Town, have also donated fantastic prizes. Jose Mourinho, the Real Madrid coach who worked with Sir Bobby, has donated the most significant personal trophy he has landed so far in his phenomenal career - his FIFA Ballon D’Or World Coach of the Year trophy.

But fantastic sporting memorabilia from the likes of Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas, a host of Premier League clubs and sporting stars such as Lewis Hamilton and Graeme Swann are just the tip of the iceberg for an auction which has more than 130 items going under the virtual hammer.

Also on offer is a true once in a lifetime opportunity for two people to watch training at FC Barcelona, arguably one of the greatest teams ever. Meet and greet with the superstar players and receive a first team signed shirt presented by their manager Pep Guardiola himself. Plus two tickets for a FC Barcelona home match at the Nou Camp, one of the world's truly great stadiums.

Pep Guardiola said “I encourage everybody to take part in this charity initiative for Sir Bobby Robson. For us as a club and for myself it is an honour to participate and to have the opportunity to invite two persons to come and visit our training session, attend a game at our stadium and receive a signed shirt from our players. I encourage everybody in England and around the world to contribute in this and to fight against cancer by supporting Sir Bobby’s Breakthrough Auction.”

Mr Guardiola was interviewed about why FC Barcelona are supporting the auction on the club's website here.

Further prizes include a 24-hour supercar experience, a week at a luxury resort in the Bahamas and a personal tour of Alnwick Castle given by the Duchess of Northumberland are other highlights.

The auction, and an associated lavish fundraising ball, was the brainchild of Gina Long, a friend of the Robson family, who wanted to organise a fundraising event to truly honour Sir Bobby and also Breakthrough Breast Cancer, which she is a passionate supporter of and Chair of The West Suffolk Group.

Gina Long, Founder, added: “I have been truly touched and overwhelmed by the generosity of every single donation of an auction item and messages of goodwill and support.

“We set out to raise as much money as possible for these two wonderful charities and as we launch this wonderful auction, I know we are heading in the right direction.

“I would now ask everyone to take a look at the wonderful auction list as there really is something for everyone. Please offer what you can to help make a difference to people suffering from this wretched disease. You can also help make a big difference by simply texting SBBA11 £3 to 70070.”

Mark Robson, Sir Bobby’s son and part of the Auction Organising Committee, said: “We are hugely appreciative of every single individual or organisation which has donated something for the auction or offered their support.

“My dad would have been so proud at the way everyone has pulled together by contributing such incredible prizes.”

The auction is being held in memory of Sir Bobby and breast cancer fundraiser Sally Balch.

It will run on-line for two weeks from this Saturday 8th October until Sunday 23rd October – and aims, alongside the fundraising ball, to raise £250,000 for both charities. You can register to bid from Saturday on the website and the full list of superb prizes can be found at www.sirbobbysbreakthroughauction.com.

Adam Clark, Project Manager, said “It is an incredible campaign. Every day we hear from someone who wants to help or has something to donate. The support for what we are doing has been amazing. The quantity, breadth and quality of the items donated to the auction lies testament to the combined reach of Breakthrough Breast Cancer and The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.”

The auction is being supported by HRH the Prince of Wales, Prime Minister David Cameron, culinary legend Delia Smith, John McCarthy and former Ipswich Town stars George Burley, Alan Brazil and Mick Mills MBE.

David Sheepshanks, a member of the organising committee, said: “Sir Bobby Robson was loved across the entire football world.

“He touched so many people’s lives and it is only fitting that so many people across football, sport and beyond have got behind this wonderful auction.

“I now urge everyone to start bidding to help raise as much money as possible for these two wonderful charities.”

For more details on the fundraiser or to make a donation or for more information go to: www.sirbobbysbreakthroughauction.com or follow via Twitter @sirbobbyauction

SOLO ALPS CHALLENGE FOR SIR BOBBY

2011-09-29T01:51:00.001-07:00

Wendy Taylor, the head of Media at Newcastle United, has given herself a mountain to climb. In fact, she has given herself several. Beginning this Saturday (1 October), Wendy is embarking on a solo 180km trek around the Alps, an extraordinary challenge which she is undertaking to raise vital funds for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

A keen amateur climber in her rare moments of free time away from running the press office of the club Sir Bobby both supported and managed, Wendy will travel through three countries - France, Italy and Switzerland - climbing a total elevation gain of 28,500ft, close to the height of Mount Everest, during her seven-day adventure.

Setting off from Les Houches, France, Wendy is tackling a more taxing variation of the Tour du Mont Blanc, which circles the Mont Blanc Massif, the highest mountain in the European Union. To make the task even more arduous, she is attempting to complete the trek inside seven days rather than the more traditional 11 or 12 and is doing it on her own.

There will be few creature comforts; no hotels, no gourmet meals, not even a tent. "I'll be carrying a bivvy bag on my back and camping under the stars," says Wendy, who joined Newcastle in the summer of 2010 after a spell in a similar role at Newcastle Airport. "I'll have food for seven days with me: cereal bars, energy gels for lunch, dehydrated survival-style packet meals for dinner.

"It gets dark at around 7.20pm at the moment, so I'll be setting off before sunrise every morning. Being by myself for so long will be one of the hardest tests, so I'm hoping to stay in touch with the outside world through my mobile phone and Twitter. I'll have seven spare batteries for my Blackberry weighing down my backpack!"

While Wendy was raised as a Sheffield Wednesday supporter (her granddad was former Wednesday manager, Eric Taylor), she was always aware of Sir Bobby's contribution to football, in the North East and beyond. When she arrived at St James' Park, she quickly came to appreciate his lingering influence at all levels of the club, as well as the important work carried out in his name by the Foundation.

"Working at Newcastle, it felt right to me to support a charity close to the heart of the club and the people connected to it," Wendy says. "There's a portrait of Sir Bobby in the manager's office at the training ground and there's a natural synergy there.

"I always admired him for his management, his time with England, but I didn't know so much about what he had done here and what he meant to people. I certainly do now. When you speak to fans, to people who worked with him or played for him, they all talk about him in such high terms. You mention his name and people want to sit down and talk about their memories."

Wendy's day-to-day work involves dealing with media enquiries, responding to stories, both positive and negative, handling press conferences, organising player interviews and taking managerial charge of Newcastle's matchday programme, website and nufc.tv. It is a relentless endeavour, magnified by global fascination with the Premier League.

"Sir Bobby seems to be universally missed and universally adored," she adds. "To be able to do something like this to raise money for his Foundation feels like a real privilege as well as a challenge and I'm sure it'll be that which keeps me going."

Since its launch in 2008, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has raised over £3.5 million to help find more effective treatments for cancer.

It funds projects within the Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which directly benefit cancer patients from across the north east and Cumbria, including the clinical trials of drugs at the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre.

Wendy will be providing regular updates on her progress through her Twitter page. You can follow and offer her encouragement at @wendytaylor13 and please contribute to her fundraising efforts at www.justgiving.com/wendynufc.

SPECIAL SUPPORT FROM THE 'SPECIAL ONE'

2011-09-19T03:49:00.000-07:00

Jose Mourinho is donating the most prestigious personal trophy of his glittering career to a charity auction in memory of Sir Bobby Robson, his mentor at Sporting Lisbon, Porto and Barcelona.

Real Madrid's Portuguese manager, 48, was award Fifa’s Ballon D’Or World Coach of the Year award in 2010, the year he won the Champions’ League with Inter Milan. He beat off competition from World Cup winner Vicente Del Bosque and rivals including Carlo Ancelotti, Pep Guardiola and Sir Alex Ferguson to pick up the award.

Now he is donating the trophy he received to become a lot in Sir Bobby's Breakthrough Auction, which runs online from 8-23 October. The auction, and a charity ball next month in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, will jointly raise funds for the Sir Bobby Foundation and Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

Mourinho has recognised the part Sir Bobby played in his own football development by giving the wonderful money-can’t-buy prize – to the delight of organisers and the Robson family alike.

Sir Bobby’s son, Mark, says: "The entire family is completely astounded by this generous gift from Mr Mourinho. We are thrilled and so thankful to him. My Dad would have been so proud by the way all the different clubs and football managers around the world are pulling together by contributing such incredible prizes."

The auction has attracted over 100 prizes and is also being supported by HRH the Prince of Wales and Prime Minister David Cameron.

Auction founder Gina Long adds: "When I started planning the auction, I could only have dreamt that I would get support from such magnificent people and great companies.

"But now that has been turned into reality, it can only help us achieve our goal of raising more than £250,000 for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and Breakthrough Breast Cancer."

Other 'money can't by' auction prizes include:

Join Fabio Capello at an England Senior Men’s training session
Attend the Professional Footballers’ Association Awards ceremony
VIP Manchester United tickets donated by Sir Alex Ferguson
A morning on Newmarket Heath with ten times Champion Trainer Sir Michael Stoute
A personal tour of Alnwick Castle given by the Duchess of Northumberland
Tickets to Centre Court at Wimbledon
Tickets to The Masters snooker final in 2012, with the chance to meet the players
A personally addressed and signed replica helmet, donated by Lewis Hamilton
A rare limited edition of Pele’s autobiography, signed by the man himself

For more information on how to bid or donate prizes please visit www.sirbobbysbreakthroughauction.com

GREAT RUNNERS GET TOGETHER FOR SIR BOBBY

2011-09-14T00:10:00.001-07:00

Fund-raisers registered with the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation to run the Great North Run were invited to an informal get-together at the Copthorne Hotel, Newcastle, last night (Tuesday 13th September).

It was an opportunity for Lady Elsie and representatives of the charity to meet and thank the runners who have been training hard ahead of Sunday. It was also a chance for Mark Allison, also known as Run Geordie Run, to talk about his experiences running across America for charity and to inspire runners in the final days before their half marathon challenge.

One of the runners with a very personal reason to support the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation is Sir Bobby’s youngest son Mark Robson.

This is the fourth year Mark and his partner Kim Jennings have tackled the Great North Run in aid of the charity and getting together with other fund-raisers ahead of the run was a very positive experience for him.

Mark says: “My family and I are very grateful to everyone who is undertaking the Great North Run in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and it was a pleasure to meet just some of the runners.

“No doubt there will be some very accomplished athletes raising funds for us but for some people the 13 miles will be a huge personal challenge. It means a great deal to us that they are taking on that challenge to raise money for Dad’s charity. In many cases I expect, like me, they have their own personal reasons for wanting to support a cancer charity.”

Sir Bobby Robson launched his charity in March 2008. He described it as his last and greatest team and was very proud of its achievements.

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation helps the experts find more effective ways to treat and diagnose cancer. It funds projects which directly benefit cancer patients including the clinical trials of drugs at the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre.

Mark adds: “I’ve done the Great North Run three times now and I’m always struck by the camaraderie and support along the route.

“In many ways it’s like the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. It’s a very big team effort and the sheer volume of people taking part adds up to something very special.

“I’d like to wish all the runners the very best of luck and to thank everyone who has sponsored a friend, colleague or family member for taking part. The money raised will be used very carefully helping people fighting cancer and in finding more effective treatments to beat this disease.”

Other Sir Bobby Robson Foundation Great North Runners include a team of doctors, nurses and administrators from the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre at the Freeman Hospital and Tom Chaplin, the charity’s official Writer in Residence.

The runners were inspired by the presence of Mark Allison who recently raised over £100,000 for the Children’s Foundation and St Benedict’s Hospice by running across America in just 100 days.

He spoke to the runners to help motivate them in their final training and gave useful advice about the physical and mental aspects of running long distances.

Mark says: “It was a huge honour to be asked to talk to the Great North Runners raising funds for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

“It was a pleasure to chat with them and to draw upon my recent experiences running 3,100 miles across the USA. I hope I have helped inspire them as they take on their own running challenge on Sunday.

"Both of my parents lost their battle against cancer. I know only too well just how valuable the treatment and research undertaken by the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation is in the ongoing fight that claims the lives of so many of our loved ones.

"I know from experience how motivating it can be running to raise funds for causes which mean a lot personally. I hope everyone doing the Great North Run for charity achieves their goals and I wish them all the very best of luck."

KEEGAN'S 'ENTERTAINERS' TICKETS

2011-09-09T02:28:00.000-07:00

Tickets are selling fast to watch Kevin Keegan's 'Entertainers' side take on Liverpool at the home of the Newcastle Falcons, Kingston Park on Sunday 9 October.

The game will benefit five charities, including the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, and will feature one of the charity's Patrons - Alan Shearer - as well as a host of well known players.

Liz Luff from the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation says: “Sir Bobby was thrilled when his Italia 90 World Cup squad reunited to play Germany in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

“I expect he would be equally enthusiastic about seeing Kevin Keegan’s Entertainers line up in black and white again too. The game is raising money for five wonderful charities and promises to be a fantastic night.

“We’re grateful to everyone involved in its organisation and particularly to Alan Shearer who will once again be wearing the iconic number 9 shirt. He does a wonderful job as a Patron of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and his commitment is much appreciated by Lady Elsie and Sir Bobby’s family.”

All ticket news, and information about the charity dinner on Saturday 8th October, can be found here www.theentertainersreunited.co.uk

A WINNER IS A WINNER IS A WINNER - TOM'S BLOG

2011-08-24T05:35:00.000-07:00

In preparation for my entry to this Great North Run in aid of the Foundation, I found myself running the streets of Newcastle this week, squeezing in some training between work commitments.

I had my route mapped out that included, naturally a trip past St James’ Park (avoiding The Strawberry pub on this occasion for obvious reasons) when I chanced upon the Sir Bobby Robson Memorial Garden.

I must confess I was on holiday when the garden was unveiled earlier in the year so although I've visited it since with my son I missed the fanfare of the launch.

Well, trust Sir Bobby to provide a place for a sit down when I needed it most and a suitable spot for quiet contemplation (“13 miles? 13 miles? How am I going to make 13 miles?”). The garden, if you haven’t been, is nestled almost under the eves of the football ground, and even thought it’s hemmed in by the Metro station, busy Gallowgate and bustling Chinatown it manages to provide a place to rest a while and a chance to escape the daily grind.

As I was sat there exhausted (all I needed was a sweat-less vest and a tab to complete the image of “useless runner”) one crystal clear thought entered my mind. For all the talk of jovial Sir Bobby, of the glint in his eye, of clichés gone wrong, of mispronounced young footballer’s names, of the amiable, affable man from County Durham done good, for all that talk… one thing stands out at the garden. Sir Bobby Robson was an out and out winner.

As player with twenty England caps. In management at FC Barcelona, the greatest, most prestigious club in football. In Holland, the home of total football, and in Portugal where they mass-produce flair players (as he might have said) “for fun”. In England as well, with unfancied underdogs Ipswich Town.

And in life too – with a family to be proud of, a charity bearing his name that continues to do wonderful things and a scoreline against cancer that read Robson 4 v Cancer 0, prior to his final battle with the disease in 2009. Winning, quite simply, was what he was all about.

So I kept that with me as departed to complete my training circuit of the city and although I didn’t count the miles I did, I felt stronger for the experience and just a little bit more determined. I’m not going to win the Great North Run clearly, but I will like the thousands of runners alongside me on the day gain something on completing it, and that’s the knowledge that I can achieve something that I previously thought impossible. I guess too, that’s what Sir Bobby was striving for with the Foundation. Take on cancer… and do whatever it takes to win.

If you would like to support my run, your donation would be very gratefully received at:
http://www.justgiving.com/tomandphilsrun

CHARITY ‘FAN’S DERBY’ IN MEMORY OF JAMIE WRIGHT

2011-08-15T11:22:00.001-07:00

A very special charity football match took place on Sunday (14th August) with Newcastle United fans taking on Sunderland AFC fans at Harton Technology College, South Shields, to decide the ‘fans derby.’

The game was in memory of 22-year-old father of two, Jamie Wright from South Shields, who died suddenly last month of unknown causes.

Both teams wore their respective club kits and players donated money to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation in recognition of Jamie’s passion for football and Newcastle United – and on this occasion it was Sunderland AFC who won the match.

Players included Jamie’s brother Jordan Wright who says: “It’s a fitting tribute to my kid as he taught me to play football because our dad was ill.

“Jamie was a massive toon fan and even though he had agoraphobia he would try his best to get to games.

“I think giving all the proceeds to charity is what he would want as he was a giving and very caring person.”

The game came just six days before the official derby when Newcastle United travel to the Stadium of Light in the Premier League.

With local bragging rights up for grabs it was a very competitive match including a disallowed goal and two missed penalties. The Sunderland fans team eventually claimed the trophy winning 2 – 1 and the match raised over £500 for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

Before the game the players and crowd joined together for a minute’s applause to remember Jamie and it was officially kicked off by former Newcastle United player Olivier Bernard.

Liz Luff, from the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, says: “It was a fantastic match and a very special way to remember Jamie.

“It was wonderful to see players and fans in red and white and black and white uniting behind a common cause and the game was played in a very positive spirit.

“The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation funds projects which help people fighting cancer from all across our region and we’re very grateful to everyone who contributed at the fan’s derby for their support.”

Since its launch in March 2008, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has raised £3.5 million to help find more effective treatments for cancer. It funds projects within the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Foundation Trust, which directly benefit cancer patients from across the north east and Cumbria.

In addition to equipping the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care in Newcastle, the charity has also funded a specialist clinical research nurse and research doctor within the Sir Bobby Centre.

It has funded leukaemia laboratory research equipment and contributed to the Royal Victoria Infirmary’s teenage cancer unit in Newcastle.

It has also enhanced a children’s waiting area, jointly funded a patient ‘quiet and information area’ with help from Macmillan Cancer Support and part funded a complementary therapy programme providing symptom relief for cancer patients – all at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care.

It is also working with Newcastle University and has purchased an ultra-compact cyclotron which will help with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. The cyclotron costs in excess of £500,000 and is only the second of its type in the world and the first in Europe.

CHARITY FOOTBALL MATCH IN LONDON

2011-08-11T05:19:00.000-07:00

On a weekend when sadly football league games in London are at risk of cancellation, one game will definitely be going ahead in the capital.

On Saturday afternoon (1.30pm 13th Aug), a Sky Sports Fanzone team will be taking on Newcastle United Women’s (NUWFC) team in a charity MATCH to mark the start of the Premier League season.

Jointly in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and NUWFC, which is an amateur team and relies completely on donations and sponsorship, the match will be played at Imperial College Sports Ground, Harlington, London.

Sponsored by www.cdmrecruitment.com and www.alpha-omega-logistics.com, the match brings together the Fanzone commentators from a variety of different teams who provide the regular fan’s view on games broadcast by Sky Sports.

Darren Williams, the Newcastle United Fanzoner and event organiser, says: “Local rivalries and club commitments will be forgotten as we all come together as one to form Fanzone United.

“It will be a very special match and our charity choice was a no brainer really. Ask any Newcastle fan or any other football fan for that matter, who has been a gentleman and legend of the game and you will usually get the same answer... Sir Bobby Robson.

“We sadly lost Sir Bobby to cancer a few years ago, but his legacy lives on in the form of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation which is continuing the work Sir Bobby started and helping other people fighting cancer now.”

Since its launch in March 2008, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has raised £3.5 million to help find more effective treatments for cancer. It funds projects within the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Foundation Trust, which directly benefit cancer patients from across the north east and Cumbria.

Phil Eadon, chairman of NUWFC, adds: "The ladies are delighted to be taking part in the match and supporting the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

“NUWFC also needs help and support to enable them to continue to operate and I hope that Sir Bobby would have been proud of what they do and the way that they play their football. 'Bobby's Girls' are really looking forward to the match against the Sky Sports Fanzone United lads on Saturday and let the best team win!"

To support the event please donate to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation via the Fanzone United Just Giving website at www.justgiving.com/fanzone4sbr.

Or to donate to NUWFC please go to their website www.nuwfc.com where sponsors and donations will be gratefully received via their Paypal application.

SIR BOBBY'S BREAKTHROUGH AUCTION

2011-08-09T01:24:00.000-07:00

Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas is supporting Sir Bobby's Breakthrough Auction this October by donating a very special auction item.

Mr Villas-Boas has kindly offered to present a Chelsea shirt with 'Sir Bobby' on the back and signed by the whole team in person to whoever wins in the online charity auction.

And this week, Mr Villas-Boas also paid tribute to Sir Bobby, who had such a great impact on his own career in football, by saying: "Sir Bobby is a true legend of the game. He was a great man, a great manager and a real gentleman. I often think of him and the inspiration he gave me not only at Porto but throughout his life.

“Sir Bobby has influenced everyone who ever met him with his enthusiasm and knowledge of the game. The fact that so many fellow managers and clubs are supporting this campaign speaks more about his legacy than I ever could.

“That Bobby is fighting against cancer even now shows that even though he was taken from us his spirit will never die. I am proud to support the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and Sir Bobby’s Breakthrough Auction and I hope fans across the country and throughout the world will do the same.”

Gina Long, the auction founder, said: “Having Mr. Villas-Boas and Chelsea Football Club’s support for Sir Bobby’s Breakthrough Auction is very special indeed.

“Their auction prize truly is a ‘money can’t buy’ prize, it also reflects the amazing man Sir Bobby was.

“I have been lucky enough to spend many special times with Sir Bobby and Lady Elsie, seeing first-hand the time and kindness he gave to all who approached him – even when picking him up from Stansted Airport for Ipswich Town’s 25th celebration of winning the FA Cup – it took Bobby over two hours to walk through the airport, generously taking time and talking to all who stopped him.

“Sir Bobby gave so much, to so many, and Sir Bobby’s Breakthrough Auction is a spectacular way for the country to have the opportunity to give something back in Bobby’s memory helping Sir Bobby’s Foundation and Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

“We have been overwhelmed by the support from Premier League and Championship clubs and we want to encourage companies and individuals to get involved by donating an auction prize or by bidding in October or simply by making a donation – it really will make the biggest difference in raising crucial funds and achieving our goal of raising £250,000.”

Sir Bobby's Breakthrough Auction and Ball is endorsed and backed by the FA Chairman David Bernstein, the Robson family and Delia Smith, who will be attending the ball.

Former Ipswich stars, including Mick Mills, Ipswich captain for 10 years during Sir Bobby’s reign as manager and now a Patron of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, will also be attending.

For more information please visit www.sirbobbysbreakthroughauction.com

KEEGAN’S ENTERTAINERS CHANGE STADIUMS

2011-08-02T07:22:00.001-07:00

The charity football match between Kevin Keegan's 'Entertainers' and Liverpool's 'Spiceboys' on Sunday 9th October is now being staged on Tyneside.

The match will now be played at the Newcastle Falcon’s Kingston Park stadium instead of the Northern Echo Darlington Arena as originally advertised.

Event organiser, Steve Wraith, says: “We would like to wholeheartedly thank Darlington for offering to stage the match but it should be staged on Tyneside.

“I’m delighted that the fans will have the chance to see their heroes, such as Keegan and Shearer, one more time in Newcastle.”

Fans who have already bought tickets from Ticketmaster will be contacted and given first allocation at Kingston Park, which is now the point of contact for new ticket sales.

Former Newcastle favourites Ruel Fox and Brian Kilcline are also now confirmed in Keegan’s team.

Ruel says: “I had some great times on Tyneside. There was a feel good factor at the club in those days under Kevin Keegan and Terry Mac and it will be nice to experience that again.

“It's a big honour to be asked by Kevin to play for him one last time and I'm just as excited about pulling on the shirt and playing for those incredible fans again as I am seeing some old faces. Bring it on!”

With Phil Thompson heading up a Liverpool side, which now includes new confirmations Rob Jones and Stig Bjornebye, it promises to be a very special night. Fans are urged to buy their tickets now to avoid any disappointment.

Five charities - the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, NSPCC, Pathways, CHUF and the Alan Shearer Centre - will benefit from the game.

All information can be found on the website www.theentertainersreunited.co.uk.

ENDURING PULL OF SIR BOBBY

2011-07-31T01:44:00.001-07:00

On the second anniversary of Sir Bobby Robson’s death this new blog from Tom Chaplin, writer in residence with the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, feels particularly appropriate:

Wagers huh? They don’t half cause you problems sometimes. Like the one I made about competing (that is categorically not the right word for it but there we go) in the Great North Run if my Writer in Residence with the Foundation came together. As you know because you’re reading this, the residency DID come to together and so here I am fulfilling my end of the bet, preparing for the run.

Recently, another bet was made through the medium of twitter that has drawn a huge amount of interest in the last couple of days. If a certain player didn’t sign for Newcastle United one twitter user wagered, he would donate £100 to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. All fine there and very noble principles. But what happens if the donation goes unpaid?!

For those unused to twitter, a very brief guide. It is a site where you share your thoughts on the world. Share what you’re doing, where you’ve been or where you’re going and friends can thus keep track of what each other are up to. It’s a 21st century social thing, where your friends are “followers” and all that matters must fit into 140 characters, which is kind of barmy I know but that’s the way it goes.

A key player in the drama, twitter user @TaylorandBesty picks up the story: “Here was a guy who’d made a bet and lost (the player Gervinho signed for Arsenal instead) but didn’t make good on his promise. To me and others it was an ‘I am Spartacus’ moment. We thought, for a bit of laugh, if a hundred people donated a pound to the Foundation we would have honoured his promise on his behalf.”

#IAmColin was born. Users share topics with others by the use of a hashtag – i.e. people who might want to talk about North East football might search for and use the hashtags #nufc or #safc to follow discussion online about their team. What followed can only be described as a phenomenon.

By the time @TaylorandBesty went to bed on Thursday evening (28th July) the donation had been made – three times over. The hashtag had worked. And the giving didn’t stop. Football fans of all colours and crests donated, pressed into action by modern technology and the good old fashioned pull of Sir Bobby. Heart-felt £1 donations were made, sometimes £2 or £3 pounds, then tens and twenties, fifties even.

The money poured in. Some were moved by the laugh of it all, happy to part with cash to be involved with #IAmColin, others were more sensitive – if you owe Sir Bobby you should pay, went the thinking.

As Friday came to a close @TaylorandBesty was hoping for even more – “donations are heading £1500 which for something that started out as a bit of fun is fantastic”, and by way of an update he tweeted later “keep donating and get us to £2000 this weekend”. Absolutely fantastic.

So it’s a cautionary tale. 1) If you make a bet on the internet, pay up or face the music, and 2) If you think you owe Sir Bobby something, try your best to come through on your end of the bargain. Please?

All of which set me thinking. I owe Sir Bobby 13 miles of the Great North Run. I guess I’m just going to have to find a way of honouring the bet. See you in South Shields.

If you’d like to follow the progress of #IAmColin or donate, search for it on twitter – you’ll find it! Or, if you’d like to support my run, please do so at www.justgiving.com/tomandphilsrun

FANTASTIC NEW FUND-RAISING TOTAL

2011-07-30T02:10:00.000-07:00

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has reached a fantastic new fund-raising milestone and the total raised to fight cancer now stands at £3.5 million.

Pauline Buglass, head of fund-raising for the charity, says: "Everyone involved with the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation is mindful that the success of the charity ultimately belongs to one man.

"Without Sir Bobby Robson this charity, everything it has achieved and will go on to achieve, would not have happened.

"He always said we were a team and that everyone who made a donation or helped in any way was part of that team. But it was his complete commitment to this cause, and to helping other people fighting cancer, which has made the charity what it is today.

"We are very proud to continue under his name and to build on the legacy he has left us. I am sure he would be very proud and grateful to know how great the ongoing support for his charity is."

In the last year, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has funded a research doctor and research nurse specialising in clinical trials of new cancer drugs at the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre, Northern Centre for Cancer Care, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle.

Together with Macmillan, it has jointly funded a new patient ‘quiet and information area,’ also at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care, and is working with Newcastle University and has purchased an ultra-compact cyclotron, which will help with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

The cyclotron costs in excess of £500,000 and is only the second of its type in the world and the first in Europe and is expected to be in place from November this year.

None of this would be possible without the tremendous ongoing donations and support from fund-raisers. Sir Bobby's family and everyone involved with the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation are very grateful.

CANCER CHARITIES UNITE TO FUND NEW PATIENT ‘QUIET AREA’

2011-07-26T06:36:00.000-07:00

The mutual promise made between Sir Bobby Robson and his Newcastle United goalkeeper Shay Given to do something together in the fight against cancer is now being fulfilled.

During Sir Bobby’s final battle with the disease he was very active raising funds and awareness of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay, who recently signed for Aston Villa FC, is equally passionate about raising funds to help improve cancer treatment and is a Patron of Macmillan Cancer Support.

When the two men last met they discussed a joint project which sadly could not be achieved during Sir Bobby’s lifetime. With the launch of a new cancer facility jointly funded by the two charities and provided by the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Foundation Trust that promise has now been realised.

Launched today (Tuesday 26th July), the new quiet area will benefit visitors to the Northern Centre for Cancer Care, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle, who come from across the region for specialist treatment.

Tucked away in a peaceful corner of the hospital, it is now a comfortable space for visitors and patients to relax between appointments with books and a television. It is also stocked with useful information about cancer.

Lady Elsie Robson officially opened the quiet area alongside Maureen Rutter, Macmillan Cancer Support director, and Sir Leonard Fenwick, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust’s chief executive.

Lady Elsie says: “I’m very proud to see this wonderful new facility open. As someone who spent a great deal of time in various hospitals while my husband received treatment I can appreciate the value of quiet space such as this.

“Bob would be very proud to be working together with Shay and Macmillan to fund this new facility. I know Shay is disappointed not to be here but my husband would have understood his pre-season football commitments mean he has to be elsewhere.

“I hope the new quiet area provides a relaxing space for visitors to the hospital for many years to come.”

Tragically, Shay lost his mum Agnes to cancer when he was just five-years-old and he still has memories of the seemingly endless hospital stays.

Shay says: “It’s great to see Macmillan Cancer Support using the money raised from Fashion Kicks 2008 towards this fantastic, much needed facility.

“It is even more special for me because it has been made possible through collaboration with the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

“Sir Bobby was not just a great gaffer, but also a great friend. This new facility will operate just like Sir Bobby would want it to with the ‘door always open and everybody welcome to come in.’

“My wife Jane and I are really disappointed at not being able to attend the official opening due to work commitments. We hope this new quiet area will become a well-used place to relax within this busy hospital environment as well as providing visitors with useful information about cancer.”

Fashion Kicks is an annual charity fashion show which features Shay and his football team mates strutting their stuff alongside professional models. It began on Tyneside in 2004 and has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds to help fight cancer.

The new quiet area the Northern Centre for Cancer Care will potentially benefit tens of thousands of patients and visitors. Over 300 cancer patients visit the hospital every day for radiotherapy treatment alone.

Kevin Hayes, Macmillan Information and Support Service manager at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care, says: "I’m very grateful that Macmillan, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and Shay felt that this project was worthy of their support.

“Undoubtedly without it we would have been unable to make an idea into a reality. Thanks to their help we have been able to provide a comfortable, welcoming and relaxing area for our patients and visitors which I have no doubt will be well used and popular.”

TOM'S BLOG: THE NIGHT I MET SIR BOBBY

2011-07-18T06:14:00.000-07:00

As I was pounding the mean streets of Monkseaton today in my preparation for running the Great North Run in support of the Foundation, three questions came to mind:

1) Jeez, how on earth is my bionic knee going to manage 13 miles of this?

2) Am I really, NO REALLY, capable of cutting out all chocolate – as is necessary - between now and the race?

3) When, prior to him becoming the permanent personification of gentlemanly gracefulness and steely-eyed determination to me, did Sir Bobby Robson first enter my life?

Questions one and two were answered swiftly (“it quite possibly won’t” and “no, of course I’m not capable of that”, in case anyone was asking), but the third sent me on a wonderful trip - through time, my childhood and the football landscape as some like to call it, all during the course of a 30 minute run.

Of course, my first “meeting” with Sir Bobby wasn’t in 1999 when he took over as manager of Newcastle United, though his unique strength of character during that time sprung immediately to mind as the ‘sixty clicks’ generation of Kieron Dyer and Craig Bellamy tested his every skill, as must the backbiting and classless behaviour of the club’s board.

Neither was it, obviously, the time I stood high in the Gallowgate end of St. James’ Park with my son on one side and father on the other as I clapped until my arms were numb, with tears running unashamedly done my face, as Sir Bobby said one last goodbye before a charity match not long before his death. Beautifully sad times.

But then, the run now in full swing (ish), my memory finally kicked into gear as I effortlessly rolled back the Sir Bobby years – the spritely, tanned, relaxed Englishman abroad at Barcelona with the youthful Ronaldo in tow, the tactician supreme in Holland and that little jig at Italia 90. My mind raced – did I know of him when he took the England job in 1982? Nope, I was six. The Euros in ‘84? I have no idea! But then Mexico ‘86…. he must connect somewhere in my brain with the World Cup Finals in Mexico 1986, right? Er, no again. How is this possible I asked myself? But then for me – as a ten year old – that World Cup was about Gary Lineker’s hat trick, Peter Beardsley’s class, that cheating cheater Maradona and matches on telly in the middle of the night. The manager just didn’t play a part in that for me I’m afraid.

So then I flash forward to time where Sir Bobby most definitely was there in my conscious. Italia 90. A wonderful summer of English flair and despair, of New Order featuring John Barnes, of Pavarotti and…. Gazza. That’s it. Paul Gascoigne. My ultimate ball-playing, showboating hero. He created the “Meet Sir Bobby” moment for me. Not at the finals, where Sir Bobby’s contract situation, sweeper system debates and a roller coaster of gusty draws, epic wins and penalties (as ever) meant Sir Bobby was on the mind of everyone in the country, not just football-obsessed me.

I can now pinpoint – with the help of Google and Youtube that I was first aware of Sir Bobby Robson on the night of April 29th 1989. He and I were at Wembley together that night. I say together in perhaps the loosest possible sense of word, in that he was there as the manager of England, while I was on a school trip. We sat in the old Wembley on those bench-like seats beside the dog track from where no one could ever see any of the action. They were cheap - school trip friendly – seats. It was a World Cup qualifier with Albania. In the dying moments Sir Bobby brought Gazza on to see what he could do in an England shirt. The press, as always, had been on Sir Bobby’s back - this time clamouring for Gascoigne, believing he was the answer to England’s problems, though in reality he was far from a dead cert even as squad player for the World Cup. As it turned out, moments later Gazza picked up the ball in midfield, barged his way into the box with a trademark turn of pace and guided the ball into the far corner of the Albanian net. England 4, Albania 1. Gazza’s fate, tears and all, was sealed.

After the goal the TV cameras picked out a joyous Sir Bobby cheering the goal with that finger waggle of his. He can be seen mouthing the words “that’s the one” – widely believed to be the moment Sir Bobby realised he might just be able to rely on the combustible but brilliant Geordie lad. Looking back, that moment (and his relationship with Gazza that followed) was vintage Sir Bobby. Professional but passionate. Fiercely determined to be his own man. Compassionate and proud. Father-figure and leader. A winner, in sport and in life.

That was the night I met Sir Bobby. Maybe, this little jog of ours to South Shields in September isn’t going to be so hard after all.

If you would like to support my run, your donation would be very gratefully received at:
http://www.justgiving.com/tomandphilsrun

KEEGAN'S 'ENTERTAINERS' TAKE ON LIVERPOOL FOR CHARITY

2011-07-16T01:09:00.000-07:00

Former Newcastle United manager Kevin Keegan will return to the dugout when his ‘Entertainers’ team from the 1990s reform to play Liverpool FC’s ‘Spiceboys’ in a match in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and four other charities on Sunday 9th October.

Under the management of Kevin Keegan, a team boasting the likes of Les Ferdinand, Rob Lee and Pavel Srnicek, played a thrilling brand of football which won admirers all over the world and propelled the team to consecutive second place finishes in the English Premier League in 1996.

The ‘Entertainers’ are fondly remembered for their flamboyant attacking style and Sky Sports recently described Newcastle United’s 4-3 defeat by title rivals Liverpool as ‘the Premier League’s greatest ever match’ – now the ‘Entertainers’ are ready to put the record straight against a Liverpool team managed by Roy Evans and Phil Thompson.

Kevin Keegan says: “I'm really looking forward to seeing all the lads again and helping to raise a lot of money for the five charities. It's win, win all round.

“Let's see if the entertainers have got it within themselves to entertain a bit.”

Players already confirmed include Newcastle’s Pavel Srnicek, John Beresford and Robert Lee and Liverpool’s Ian Rush, Jason McAteer and Mark Wright.

Tickets for the match at the Northern Echo Arena, Darlington, will be priced at £10 for adults and £5 for children and are available at www.ticketmaster.co.uk from Thursday 21st July. Tickets are expected to be in high demand and to sell out quickly so it’s recommended the fans make early purchases.

The main event ‘The Match’ will provide an afternoon of spectacular family entertainment from two star studded line ups while raising funds for the NSPCC, CHUF, the Alan Shearer Centre, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and NE children’s charity Pathways.

On the eve of the match there will also be a celebratory black tie dinner, where legends from opposing teams will reunite to share their memories of the iconic 4-3 game.

The dinner will be held at Newcastle’s Civic Centre on Saturday 8th October and tickets are priced at £65 or £85 for the VIP area and are available by calling 0191 229 9631 or logging onto www.theentertainersreunited.co.uk. Corporate and sponsorship packages are also available.

TOM CHAPLIN WRITER IN RESIDENCE

2011-06-30T04:34:00.000-07:00

Hello, I’m Tom Chaplin the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation’s Writer in Residence. Over the following months and years I am going to be writing creatively on behalf of the Foundation – hopefully with patients, fundraisers and staff - to enrich the environment and output of the Foundation and allow those in contact with the Foundation to explore their creativity.

When the idea of a Writer in Residence project, which is funded through public Arts and Council sponsorship, was first discussed I decided that if the project got the green light I would run the Great North Run in aid of the Foundation. Well, the project did get the go ahead, so here I am facing a run that has challenged many more able and determined runners than little old me!

Having been a keen sportsman, a number of operations on a troublesome knee has left me doing less than I would have liked so the run (or walk if the worst comes to the worst!) is going to be a great challenge. My wife has also decided to run with me, so now it’s a real family affair. We’ll be running in memory of all the great people lost to the disease and hope to raise as much money for the Foundation as possible to support the amazing work it does.

Over the next couple of months I will be blogging about my experiences leading up to the run, hopefully getting hints and tips from talented runners and amazing fundraisers on how to enjoy the day and raise lots of money.

And the advice has actually already started coming in. On Thursday 23rd June, I was lucky enough to meet some amazing people as part of the Foundation’s regular Fundraiser’s sessions at Newcastle’s Copthorne Hotel, an old haunt of Sir Bobby himself. I received great inspiration from a range of fundraisers young and old who attended so that the Foundation and Lady Elsie could thank them in person for their efforts. The huge sums donated (and they were huge) will go a long way to supporting the Foundation’s aims and goals. Those fundraisers present were a credit to themselves and their families. Amongst others, those from Longhoughton Girls FC who raised £800 completing a sponsored dribble and young James McCutcheon who ran the Junior Great North Run in memory of his great aunt were of particular encouragement to me. Their determination stood out a mile (no pun intended).

Also in attendance was Paul Robinson, from Yarm, who’s herculean effort meant he made it across the UK’s C2C route from Whitehaven to Hartlepool - all on a 1980’s BMX! The bike was a gift from his late father, and Paul decided the ride would be a fitting tribute to his Dad and great fundraising opportunity. We agreed! He was kind enough to tell me all about the trip, what a challenge it was and how he battled the burning muscles and uncomfortable saddle. Inspiring stuff.

Now... Where are those running shoes?!

If you would like to support my run, your donation would be very gratefully received at:
http://www.justgiving.com/tomandphilsrun

SIR BOBBY'S BREAKTHROUGH AUCTION AND BALL

2011-06-28T03:30:00.000-07:00

A unique auction and ball in memory of former England football manager Sir Bobby Robson and breast cancer campaigner Sally Balch are being held this October. The event aims to raise a fantastic £250,000 for Breakthrough Breast Cancer and the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

The Sir Bobby Breakthrough Auction and Ball will be held 30 years after one of the legendary manager’s greatest achievements, winning the UEFA Cup with Ipswich Town in 1981. The auction will run for two weeks during Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, from 8-23 October 2011. The ball takes place at The Apex in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, on 20 October.

Sally Balch was a founding member of the Breakthrough Suffolk group and died of breast cancer in 2004. Sir Bobby died of cancer in 2009 following a long fight with the disease.

Gina Long, event founder and chair of Breakthrough Breast Cancer’s West Suffolk group, said: “We all loved Sally and Sir Bobby and so we wanted to hold an event to remember them by. This auction and ball is a spectacular way to raise money for the causes they were so passionate about.

“We have been overwhelmed by support and want to encourage companies and individuals to get involved with our very special Auction and Ball by generously becoming a sponsor or auction prize donor – it really will make the biggest difference in helping create hugely successful events that will do Sally and Sir Bobby proud.”

The event is endorsed and backed by the FA Chairman David Bernstein, the Robson family and Delia Smith, who will be attending the ball, as well as former Ipswich stars, including Mick Mills, Ipswich captain for 10 years during Sir Bobby’s reign as manager.

Mick Mills MBE, now a patron of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, said: “All of the players are delighted to support this wonderful auction and ball in memory of Sir Bobby. We are so pleased to celebrate his life here in Suffolk where he made his name. This event is a great way of reminding people of the way he made Ipswich into one of the best teams in Europe, while raising money for a good cause.”

The auction, organised by the respected auctioneers Lacy Scott & Knight, will have “money can’t buy prizes’. A host of sporting clubs, sporting stars, celebrities and companies will be providing auction prizes with details to be revealed in the run-up to October.

Former Ipswich Town chairman David Sheepshanks, who is also on the organising committee, said: “This promises to be a wonderful event in memory of a truly wonderful man and an extremely special lady.

“The auction and ball will raise tens of thousands of pounds for two charities that do an awful amount of good work.”

Chris Askew, Chief Executive of Breakthrough Breast Cancer, said: “Sir Bobby Robson and Sally Balch were two inspirational people and the memory of both has driven this remarkable fundraising effort. Everyone who supports this event can be sure their money will be spent trying to find new cancer treatments to fight this terrible disease. There is much more to be done but with the public’s support we can achieve a future free from the fear of breast cancer.”

Gina is delighted that invited key business leaders and highly regarded individuals, have joined the official committee to deliver the Auction and Ball: Between them they have created a platform to raise significant funds to support the work of Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

Members of the committee; Mark Robson (Chair), Gina Long (Founder), David Sheepshanks, Terry Hunt, Laura Hudson, Austin Cornish, Edward Crichton, Adam Clark, Richard Lindsey, Stephen Foster, Harry Berry, Matt Cable, Mick Mills MBE.

For more information on how to donate go to: www.sirbobbysbreakthroughauction.com

THE DAY I MET SIR BOBBY ROBSON

2011-06-25T05:49:00.001-07:00

Fantastic BBC 5live radio programme here with memories of Sir Bobby and featuring the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

Well worth a listen via BBC iPlayer The Day I Met Sir Bobby Robson

BEAUTIFULLY ORCHESTRATED SUPPORT

2011-06-05T20:42:00.001-07:00

Orchestra North East is increasing the tempo of preparations for its forthcoming concert at The Sage, Gateshead in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

The ambitious amateur orchestra is made up of people from across the region with a wide variety of day jobs ranging from doctors, civil engineers and accountants alongside those who make their living out of music.

Orchestra North East treasurer, Geoff Wright, says: “Our orchestra is made up of people from all walks of life but one thing we all have in common is a passion for music and a commitment to performing at a professional standard.

“We are thrilled to be performing within a world-class venue like The Sage and in aid of such a deserving regional charity. Unfortunately some of our members have been directly affected by cancer and indirectly we all have.

“It’s a pleasure to support a charity which is helping cancer patients in our region and working hard to find better treatments for this awful disease.”

The orchestra will be performing Grieg’s Peer Gynt Suite No 1, Mozart’s Horn Concerto No 4 and an orchestral symphony, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No 5 in E Minor, which was chosen by the general public as The North East’s Favourite (in a poll supported by The Journal).

Geoff adds: “Rather than dictate the programme for the evening we thought it would be an interesting exercise to find out what our audience would like to hear in advance.

“We’re extremely happy with the result which features a beautiful melody for solo horn. I imagine Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No 5 will be the highlight of the night.

“I have no doubts it will be a wonderful evening and this is a great opportunity to experience the power of feeling delivered by a full symphony orchestra right here in the north east.

“This is particularly poignant given the recent announcement by The Sage that there will be no visiting symphony orchestras in 2012, so I’d recommend joining us to enjoy the experience while you can and help to support a great local charity in the process.”

Orchestra North East is performing at The Sage, Gateshead, on Sunday 12 June at 7.30pm. Tickets are £20.00 (£16 concessions, £6 students with ID and children under 16 free with a paying adult) and are available from The Sage box office on 0191 443 4661 or www.thesagegateshead.org.

DURHAM’S INNER WHEEL CLUB TURNS TO SUPPORT THE SIR BOBBY ROBSON FOUNDATION

2011-06-01T10:00:00.000-07:00

Durham’s Inner Wheel Club held its annual Inter Club Meeting at Ramside Hall Hotel this week. It marked the first official civic engagement for the new Mayor of Durham, Councillor Les Thomson and Mayoress Lucille Thomson, who were guests of honour alongside Lady Elsie Robson.

The celebratory lunch was an opportunity for Inner Wheel Clubs from across the region to join the ladies from Durham along with other women’s organisations from the area including Tangent, the Women’s Institute and the Soroptimists.

Lady Robson was pleased to accept a cheque for £1,400 which was raised by the Inner Wheel Club of Durham over the last year for her husband’s cancer charity. A further £375 was raised on the day through a raffle for a beautiful hand-made quilt.

Vice President of Durham’s Inner Wheel Club, Doris Dobson, presented Lady Robson with the cheque on behalf of President Judith Turner who was sadly unable to attend due to bereavement. The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation was Judith’s chosen charity for the year.

Lady Robson said: “I’m very grateful to the ladies of Durham’s Inner Wheel Club for this wonderful donation.

“They were so hospitable and I was very interested to hear how they keep their charitable fund-raising going throughout the year. They have a fantastic feeling of belonging which is very worthwhile and I appreciate their efforts on our behalf.”

Since its launch in March 2008, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has raised £3.3 million to help find more effective treatments for cancer. The charity funds projects within the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Foundation Trust, which directly benefit cancer patients from across the north east and Cumbria.

Commenting on the Inter Club Meeting, Vice President Doris Dobson, said: “It was a very enjoyable afternoon and we were pleased to have so many ladies join us for our lunch. Our President, Judith Turner, was sadly missing due to bereavement but I think everyone coming together like that would have pleased her more than anything.

“We are proud to support the work of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and it was a pleasure to welcome Lady Robson and the new Mayor and Mayoress of Durham on their first civic engagement too.”

‘WHIRLWIND’ SUPPORT FOR THE SIR BOBBY ROBSON FOUNDATION...

2011-05-25T06:32:00.001-07:00

Snooker legend Jimmy ‘Whirlwind’ White will be in Newcastle this week to support the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation – exactly a year to the day after he said he would return.

Jimmy visited Newcastle to help the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation on 26 May last year and played eight frames of snooker at Westfield Social Club against the highest bidders in the room.

The event raised an incredible £5,000 for the regional cancer charity and Jimmy rounded off a hugely entertaining and successful evening by promising to come back again – and this time Tony Drago will be helping to wow the crowd with exhibition snooker.

Last year Jimmy, who has fought cancer himself, said: “For me to be able to help raise some money in Sir Bobby Robson’s name, that’s just fantastic. He was always doing things to help other people and it’s really an honour for me to be able to help out.

“I must have been to Newcastle hundreds of times. I’m a big Chelsea fan and I’ve seen maybe 15 or 20 games at St James’ Park. The atmosphere there is second to none.”

The charity snooker event is being held at Newcastle Labour Club on Leazes Park Road on Thursday 26 May and doors open at 6.30pm.

It includes five frames of exhibition snooker, presentation of the Newcastle and Gateshead Snooker League awards and then Jimmy and Tony will take on all-comers.

A limited number of tickets for this event remain available through organiser Michael Sheldon (tel 07905 816 288) or on the door and are priced £15.

CRAMLINGTON LADIES HIT BULLSEYE FOR CANCER CHARITIES

2011-05-12T08:09:00.000-07:00

Cramlington Village Club’s Ladies Darts Team hit a bullseye for two cancer charities this week by raising £2,400 to split between Macmillan Cancer Support and the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

The money was raised in memory of Dot Severn, a club regular and member of the darts team, through a 10 hour sponsored darts marathon and raffles within the club.

This is the second time the ladies darts team has raised money for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and Newcastle United players Fabricio Coloccini and Jose Enrique supported their efforts by posing for photographs with the charity cheques and meeting club members.

Tracey Duffy, captain of the Ladies Darts Team, says: “This really has been a team effort and we’ve had great support from the men’s darts team, the club committee at the club and the local shops who donated raffle prizes.

“We lost a good friend to cancer and she loved her football so this is our way of remembering Dot. She would have loved the idea that Jose and Fabricio came along to the club to support our efforts.”

Club members Lorraine and Mark Weatherson invited Fabricio and Jose to Cramlington Village Club after becoming friendly with them though work. The Newcastle United stars were very happy to help out and also donated signed football shirts for the charity raffles.

After meeting the Ladies Darts Team and signing autographs Fabricio and Jose joined regulars playing bingo but on this occasion failed to score.

Pauline Buglass, head of fund-raising for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, says: “It was a pleasure to come back to Cramlington Village Club.

“The ladies here are wonderful and enthusiastic fund-raisers and we really appreciate their efforts. It’s a lovely and very positive way to keep their friend Dot’s memory alive.”

QUESTOON OF SPORT CHARITY NIGHT RAISES THOUSANDS

2011-05-11T04:57:00.000-07:00

A charity night sponsored by NE FIT Magazine and Porsche/Bentley Newcastle and Go North East at St James Park has helped to raise thousands for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

The ‘Questoon of Sport’ charity night was a ‘Question of Sport’ themed quiz with the teams captained by former Newcastle United player John Beresford and boxer Bradley Saunders from Stockton.

ITV presenter Andy Kerr acted as quiz master on the evening and a closely fought battle was waged with John Beresford’s team emerging victorious.

Over 180 people attended the event with three lucky guests enjoying the chance to play as part of John and Bradley’s teams – the additional spot was filled by George Caulkin, a Patron of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and northern sports correspondent for The Times.

The highlight of the evening was the charity auction, with NE FIT magazine arranging prizes including a one to one training session with UFC fighter Ross Pearson, which brought £600.

Other lots included an exclusive golf day at Close House Hotel, a years’ worth of boot camp training with the Outdoor Fitness Company and teeth whitening from Bute Dental. Porsche Newcastle donated prizes including a day’s performance driving at Silverstone, which raised £500, as well as a tour of the Bentley factory.

The auction brought in over £2,000 overall and even managed to tempt a few bids from John Beresford himself.

Since its launch in March 2008, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has raised £3.3 million to help find more effective treatments for cancer. The charity funds projects within the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Trust, which directly benefits cancer patients from across the North East and Cumbria.

NE FIT Publisher Dan Pearson said: “It was a pleasure to be invited to sponsor this event. The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation is an example of what can be achieved locally when people are motivated to support great causes.

“The organization was excellent and a big thanks to the management team for making the event possible.”

NE FIT Magazine is the region’s first, and only, health and fitness title. Available from mid May in retailers across the North East. It features articles and columns from some of the North’s leading sports personalities and fitness experts.

FOOTBALL UNITES AND ‘SWINGS’ INTO ACTION

2011-04-29T01:53:00.001-07:00

Club allegiances were put to one side this week as football united to support a very special golf day in aid of cancer charity the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

The Sir Bobby Robson Celebrity Golf Day, sponsored by Goldchip, was supported by all of the charity’s high profile Patrons – Middlesbrough chairman Steve Gibson, Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer, Sunderland AFC chairman Niall Quinn and Sir Bobby’s Ipswich Town captain Mick Mills.

In addition, the charity event was generously supported by Hartlepool United, Sunderland AFC, Newcastle United, Leeds United and Middlesbrough football clubs who all entered teams into the golf which included players, former players and management.

As well as making The Sir Bobby Robson Celebrity Golf Day a truly regional event, their involvement ensured a strong competitive spirit out on the course as they competed alongside teams from local businesses for the trophy.

Lady Elsie Robson says: “I’m thrilled by the generous support from the region’s football clubs and Mick Mills coming all the way from Suffolk. We really appreciate all the efforts they’ve made to join us today.

“I’m also very grateful to everyone who has helped us by contributing auction prizes, buying tickets and raising awareness of The Sir Bobby Robson Celebrity Golf Day.

“The money raised will help fund the search for more effective treatments for cancer and will help those people who are currently fighting this terrible disease.

“I know my husband would be very proud to have this wonderful charity event staged in his name.”

In addition to the charity’s Patrons, footballers, former players, executives, managers and coaching staff involved included Sunderland’s Phil Bardsley, Lee Cattermole, Craig Gordon, Michael Turner and Steve Bruce - Middlesbrough’s Matthew Bates, Andrew Taylor, Jason Steele and Adam Johnston who travelled from Manchester to take part.

Hartlepool United’s team comprised Mick Wadsworth, Micky Barron, Ritchie Humphreys and Russ Green and Leeds United’s was made up of Alex Bruce, Billy Paynter, Paul Connolly and Ross McCormack.

In addition, Newcastle United was represented by Mick Martin, John Beresford, Gary Speed, Alan Pardew, John Carver, Steve Stone, Andy Woodman, Ryan Taylor, Alan Smith, Shefki Kuqi, Shola Ameobi, James Perch, Tim Krul, Peter Lovenkrands, Steven Taylor, Steve Harper and Joey Barton.

Steve Gibson, chairman of Middlesbrough and a Patron of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation said:
“Newcastle was Sir Bobby’s first love there’s no doubt about that but he had a great fondness for Middlesbrough and Sunderland and he loved North East football.

“We don’t want to rest on what’s been achieved. We’d rather focus on that which can still be achieved so that we can make funds available to those who have the ability to make cancer research better.”

Mick Wadsworth, manager of Hartlepool United, worked with Sir Bobby for England and Newcastle United. He said of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation: “He put so much effort into this along with Lady Elsie, his family and the people at the hospital.

“It became a massive thing for him. It’s going to be here for a long, long time and always well supported.”

Alan Shearer, Newcastle United legend and a Patron of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation said: “We’re at over £3 million now and that’s an incredible amount and an incredible achievement. It’s been a lot of hard work from a lot of people but that’s what everyone promised Sir Bobby before he left us.

“We’re going to continue working very hard and hopefully the money will keep coming in. I’m sure it will.”

Niall Quinn, Sunderland chairman and a Patron of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, said of Sir Bobby: “He’s about the only person I knew in my lifetime that can get Sunderland people, Newcastle people and Middlesbrough people to come out and pat each other on the back and say nice things to each other.

“And when you think about the good work which is coming out of it as well it’s incredible – a measure of the man.

“Sir Bobby spent a lot of time towards the end of his life going to Sunderland games and our boardroom. He’d have the salt and pepper and be moving them about as players and the winger would be the butter dish. And he was incredible.”

Newcastle goalkeeper Steve Harper is an active supporter of the charity and played under Sir Bobby. He said of him: “He would have loved to have been here today. Me and Alan Shearer played him and Charlie Woods at golf once and lost as Charlie’s just reminded me.

“It would’ve been nice to get our revenge today but it was just not to be.

“Sir Bobby promoted North East football. He went to watch Sunderland, Middlesbrough and Hartlepool and took a keen interest in supporting all the North East teams. Hence the turn out you see from those clubs here today.”

The winners of the first Sir Bobby Robson Celebrity Golf Day were Leeds United, Sunderland AFC were runners up with an NUFC team in third place.

After playing in the sell out golf day, guests went on to enjoy dinner at the stunning five-star Rockliffe Hall Hotel, including entertainment from comedian Paul Squires, a very special auction and live swing music from Cole Page.

Auction lots included a week’s stay in a luxury four bedroom villa in the Bahamas, rare limited edition and signed autobiographies by both George Best and Pele, tickets to see the sold-out Take That concert at the Stadium of Light and a painting by renowned County Durham pitman artist Tom Lamb entitled ‘From Darkness into Light’ created especially for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

FANTASTIC CHARITY AUCTION

2011-04-25T03:59:00.001-07:00

An opportunity to bid in advance for some of the fantastic items available in the auction at Wednesday's 'sold out' Sir Bobby Robson Celebrity Golf Day:

Charity Auction Info Link

Lots include a week’s stay in a luxury four bedroom villa in the Bahamas, rare limited edition and signed autobiographies by both George Best and Pele, tickets to see the sold-out Take That concert at the Stadium of Light and a painting by renowned County Durham pitman artist Tom Lamb entitled ‘From Darkness into Light’ created especially for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

For more information regarding dinner tickets or to bid on any of the auction items please contact Karen Thornton-Brown on 0778 2109 758 or email karen@connectvips.com.

STAR-STUDDED GOLF DAY ‘FORE’ THE SIR BOBBY ROBSON FOUNDATION

2011-04-21T03:31:00.000-07:00

The football community is uniting to support a very special, star-studded fund-raising event in aid of cancer charity the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation on Wednesday (27 April).

The Sir Bobby Robson Celebrity Golf Day and Dinner at beautiful Rockliffe Hall near Darlington is sponsored by Goldchip and marks the first time all of the charity’s high profile Patrons will be together to help raise funds and awareness of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation’s work.

Middlesbrough chairman Steve Gibson, Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer, Sunderland AFC chairman Niall Quinn and Sir Bobby’s Ipswich Town captain Mick Mills are all attending to help make the day an especially memorable one.

In addition, the charity event is being supported by Hartlepool United, Sunderland AFC, Newcastle United, Leeds United and Middlesbrough football clubs who are all entering teams into the golf which include players, former players and management.

As well as making The Sir Bobby Robson Celebrity Golf Day a truly regional event, their involvement will ensure a strong competitive spirit out on the course as they compete alongside teams from local businesses for the trophy.

Lady Elsie Robson says: “My family, friends and I have been very involved in organising this event and we’re looking forward to it.

“We’re very grateful to everyone who has bought tickets and contributed prizes and time to help make the day a success.

“I’m especially thankful for the wonderful support we’re receiving from the football community. To have our Patrons and the likes of Alan Pardew, Steve Bruce and Mick Wadsworth coming together like this would have made Bob’s day. He would be thrilled and very proud of their support for his charity.

“Sadly we’re all affected by cancer in one way or another and it really puts everything else, including football, into perspective. I’m touched that fans and players from so many different football clubs are joining in and supporting the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

“We hope to raise a good amount of money and awareness through this event and we hope it will be very enjoyable too.”

Since its launch in March 2008, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has raised £3.3 million to help find more effective treatments for cancer. The charity funds projects within the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Foundation Trust, which directly benefit cancer patients from across the north east and Cumbria.

Golf teams for The Sir Bobby Robson Celebrity Golf Day are sold out however a limited number of dinner tickets are still available at £75 per person. In addition to enjoying dinner at the stunning five-star Rockliffe Hall Hotel, tickets include entertainment from comedian Paul Squires, a very special auction and live swing music from Cole Page.

Bids for auction prizes can also be made in advance of the night. Lots include a week’s stay in a luxury four bedroom villa in the Bahamas, rare limited edition and signed autobiographies by both George Best and Pele, tickets to see the sold-out Take That concert at the Stadium of Light and a painting by renowned County Durham pitman artist Tom Lamb entitled ‘From Darkness into Light’ created especially for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

For more information regarding dinner tickets or to bid on any of the auction items please contact Karen Thornton-Brown on 0778 2109 758 or email karen@connectvips.com.

A ‘QUESTOON’ OF SPORT

2011-04-13T08:42:00.001-07:00

A group of Northumbria University students are laying down the sporting knowledge gauntlet by organising a ‘Question of Sport’ style quiz night in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

Hosted by television presenter Roger Tames, ‘A Questoon of Sport’ will feature sporting guests including former Newcastle United defender John Beresford and boxer Bradley Saunders from Stockton.

Guests at the event, which is being held at St James’ Park in Newcastle, will have the opportunity to win a place on John and Bradley’s teams and the audience will be challenged to beat the sports stars knowledge throughout the evening.

The seven Sports Management students who are organising the charity night are hoping to raise as much money as possible in aid of Sir Bobby’s cancer charity.

Team member, Adam Crawford, says: “We had the pleasure of meeting Lady Elsie when we were in the early stages of planning this event and she was very supportive. We don’t know how much money we will raise for the charity yet but it’s good to get involved with the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

“We’re planning what we hope will be a really lively night and tickets include a three course meal as well as the sporting quiz. There will be testing questions but we’ve no doubt the audience and John and Bradley’s teams will rise to the challenge.”

Team member, Liam Gill, adds: “Whilst all the team have worked really hard in ensuring everything is in place for an unforgettable night, a big thank you must go out to sponsors Go North East and headline sponsor Porsche and Bentley of Newcastle in particular who are providing five top of the range sports cars for the room.”

Since its launch in March 2008, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has raised £3.3 million to help find more effective treatments for cancer. The charity funds projects within the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Trust, which directly benefit cancer patients from across the north east and Cumbria.

Lady Elsie says: “The concept for this charity night is very original and the organisers seem very enthusiastic and motivated to succeed.

“As students they may only be in the north east for a relatively short time so it’s good to see them showing such initiative and helping out a regional charity.

“I wish them great success with their studies and this event in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. I’m sure it will be a wonderful night and I’m disappointed I can’t attend.”

Tickets for ‘A Questoon of Sport’ cost £30, which includes a three course meal, while a table of 10 is available for £250. The event starts at 7pm on Sunday 1st May. Please call 0781 248 3110 to book tickets or for more information.

There will be an auction on the night which will include two Porsche track days Croft, Darlington with a value of £1,000 each.

NIALL QUINN ‘BANKING’ ON BARCLAYS SUPPORT

2011-04-07T09:47:00.000-07:00

Sunderland AFC chairman Niall Quinn is supporting Barclays’ staff in Sunderland as they raise money for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

On a visit to the bank’s personal customer contact centre in Doxford Park he also announced that the cancer charity has smashed through the £3million fund-raising mark just three years after its launch in March 2008.

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, which helps find more effective treatments for cancer, directly benefits patients from across the north east and Cumbria.

Niall, a Patron of the charity, says: “It’s a great pleasure to meet with the Barclays’ team here at Doxford Park. And I think being surrounded by all these enthusiastic Sir Bobby Robson Foundation fund-raisers is a very appropriate place to announce we’ve broken through the £3million mark.

“I’m very proud to represent the charity as a Patron and I know Sir Bobby would also be very proud today knowing how much money has been raised. He was incredibly passionate about his charity and the benefits it brings for local people fighting cancer.

“Sir Bobby used to say when, and not if, when he talked about the experts finding a cure for this terrible disease. It’s that kind of positive thinking which really makes a difference.

“£3.3 million is a huge amount of money and thanks to the support of committed fund-raisers like the Barclays’ staff I’ve met today we can go on and do much more.”

In addition to chatting with Barclays’ fund-raisers, Niall also took time out to pick winning entries from the charity raffle and took a guided tour of the Tyne House contact centre which employs 500 staff.

Christine Allenson, head of Customer Service at Barclays Sunderland Contact Centre, says:
“Barclays encourages all its staff to give their time, skills and talent to the local communities where we live and work. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real and lasting difference and all the staff are delighted to adopt Sir Bobby’s Foundation for the coming year.”

Fund raising activities across the Contact Centre include raffles, quizzes, casual dress down days, bike rides, egg painting competitions and some staff are even entering the Great North Run.

Since its launch in March 2008, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has raised £3.3 million to help find more effective treatments for cancer. The charity funds projects within the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Trust, which directly benefit cancer patients from across the north east and Cumbria.

In addition to equipping the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care in Newcastle, the charity has funded a specialist research nurse and doctor and contributed to the Royal Victoria Infirmary’s teenage cancer unit.

It has also enhanced a children’s waiting area at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care and funded leukaemia laboratory research equipment.

It most recently announced that it is working with Newcastle University and has purchased an ultra-compact cyclotron which will help with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. The cyclotron costs in excess of £500,000 and is only the second of its type in the world and the first in Europe.

Sir Bobby’s family are committed to continuing the work of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation with the help of fund-raisers, donors and Patrons including Niall Quinn, Alan Shearer, Mick Mills and Steve Gibson.

EAST COAST NAMES TRAIN ‘SIR BOBBY ROBSON’

2011-03-29T08:27:00.000-07:00

East Coast today (Tuesday, 29 March 2011) named a Class 91 high-speed locomotive ‘Sir Bobby Robson’ in memory of the former England and ‘Toon’ football legend.

Sir Bobby’s widow, Lady Elsie Robson and former England and Newcastle United captain, Alan Shearer OBE, patron of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation charity, performed the train-naming along with Elaine Holt, Chairman of East Coast at Newcastle Central Station this morning.

The ‘Sir Bobby Robson’ Class 91 electric locomotive (number 91109) features specially-commissioned, cast-iron nameplates.

Speaking at the event, Elaine Holt, Chairman of East Coast said: “We are honoured to name the first of our prestigious locomotives ‘Sir Bobby Robson’ in memory of such a legendary and much-respected sporting figure.

“Sir Bobby was a regular train traveller between the North East and London, during his management career and beyond, as he worked tirelessly to raise funds and awareness for his Sir Bobby Robson Foundation charity. He was loved by many of our staff, particularly those at Durham and Newcastle stations who remember him with great affection.

“As it speeds through the North East on the East Coast route, this specially-named train will help to keep the memory of Sir Bobby Robson in people’s minds and we hope will raise further awareness of his enduring legacy and the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation for many years to come.”

East Coast is pledging its support for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, the cancer charity set up by Sir Bobby in 2008.

Newcastle and England striker Alan Shearer, a patron of the Foundation, spoke of his pride as the gleaming locomotive, bearing the name of the man still revered as a legend on Tyneside shone in the morning light at the city’s Central Station.

Alan said: “It is an absolute honour and pleasure to officially name a high-speed East Coast train ‘Sir Bobby Robson’. I’m sure that Sir Bobby would be very proud to see his name and legacy continued in this very fitting and special way.

“It is also fantastic news that East Coast have decided to support the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation as one of their chosen charities.”

Alan added: “I am a regular traveller to London on East Coast trains and I’m looking forward to the day when the locomotive on front of the train I’m on is the ‘Sir Bobby Robson’ locomotive...I think he would find it very amusing pulling Alan Shearer all the way to London at 125 miles per hour!”

Thanks to fantastic ongoing support, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has now raised well over £2.5 million to help find more effective treatments for cancer.

In addition to equipping and partially staffing the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care in Newcastle it has purchased an ultra-compact cyclotron which will help with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

The cyclotron costs in excess of £500,000 and is only the second of its type in the world and the first in Europe.

Lady Elsie said: “I think my husband would be surprised and thrilled to have this train named after him.

“He travelled frequently by train so I feel this is very appropriate and my family and I appreciate the gesture.

“We’re also very grateful for the fund-raising efforts East Coast are undertaking in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and we will ensure the money is put to the very best use fighting cancer.”

East Coast provides high speed, long distance rail services linking the North East to Scotland, Yorkshire, the East Midlands and London. It also manages 12 stations along the route including Newcastle, Durham and Darlington.

The North East will benefit from an exciting new timetable from 22 May, including a prestige ‘Flying Scotsman’ non-stop express from Newcastle to London, completing the journey in just two hours and 37 minutes.

From the same date, an additional three weekday and 11 weekend services will be introduced between Newcastle and London, whilst passengers will see the introduction of a new, improved on-board service, including complimentary meals and drinks served in First Class.

CRAMLINGTON JUNIORS BACKING THE SIR BOBBY ROBSON FOUNDATION

2011-03-16T01:21:00.000-07:00

Alan Shearer OBE recently took a trip down memory lane when he met up with fund-raisers for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation from Cramlington Juniors Football Club.

Alan, a patron of Sir Bobby’s cancer charity, is a former Cramlington player and met team manager Andrew Skelton and club secretary Norman Walmsely to receive a cheque for £1,200 raised through a charity football match.

As well as receiving the cheque and finding out how the money was raised, Alan took the opportunity to catch up on Cramlington’s current form.

Alan says: “I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Cramlington. I learned a lot playing junior football and it gave me a good grounding which served me well in my career.

“We’re lucky to have such a strong network of junior football clubs in the north east and they are essential to the future of the game.

“It was a pleasure to hear how well the club is getting on and to officially receive this cheque for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. We’re grateful for their efforts and the money will be very well used helping people fighting cancer in our region.”

Thanks to fantastic ongoing support, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has now raised over £2.5 million to help find more effective treatments for cancer.

In addition to equipping the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care in Newcastle, the charity has funded a specialist research nurse and doctor and contributed to the Royal Victoria Infirmary’s teenage cancer unit.

It recently announced that it is working with Newcastle University and has purchased an ultra-compact cyclotron which will help with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and other serious diseases. The cyclotron costs in excess of £500,000 and is only the second of its type in the world and the first in Europe.

Andrew Skelton, who organised the Cramlington Juniors charity match along with Paul Scott and Norman Walmsley, says: “We wanted to do our bit to help Sir Bobby’s charity and decided to invite some of our old boys to come back together again to play in a game against the current coaches and managers.

“It was a great occasion and a pleasure to see so many former players and supporters turning out to support this great cause.

“One of our most successful players is Andy Sinton who went on to play for Spurs and England. Andy’s dad Ken helped many players in the early years of Cramlington Juniors and sadly died last year so this game was a tribute to him.

“Andy played in the game as did former Blackpool striker Richie Bond and ex Blackburn striker Graham Fenton. He also kindly presented us with one of his England shirts to go up in our clubhouse.

“The score finished Ex Cramlington Players 5 v 2 Current Managers so it wasn’t really as close as the coaching team would’ve liked!

“We’re very proud to have raised so much money through the game and it seemed very fitting that we could hand this cheque over to the most famous Cramlington Juniors player who is now doing such a fantastic job as a patron of Sir Bobby’s charity.”

LADY ELSIE MEETS THE FAMILY OF CHRISTOPHER SCOTT

2011-02-21T13:51:00.000-08:00

Lady Elsie recently met the family of 33-year-old Christopher Scott from Wallsend who sadly died in December after a three year battle with cancer.

It was an opportunity for Lady Elsie to personally thank Christopher's mother Phyllis, sister Melanie and wife Donna for the money which was donated to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation in his memory.

The donations, which totalled more than £1,400, will help other people fighting cancer.

ICONIC FOOTBALL CREATED IN AID OF THE SIR BOBBY ROBSON FOUNDATION

2011-01-14T01:16:00.000-08:00

Top footballers today enjoy lavish lifestyles which are beyond the dreams of even their most famous and talented counterparts from the 1940s, 50s and 60s.

And while the likes of Middlesbrough’s Matthew Bates essentially play the same game as legendary players like Wilf Mannion the equipment they use is very different.

One key element which has changed completely is the ball and now The Old Fashioned Football Shirt Company (TOFFS) has created a replica of the old style laced leather footballs to celebrate the life of Sir Bobby Robson and in aid of his cancer charity.

TOFFS company secretary Michele Finch, who runs the business with her husband Alan, says: “Sir Bobby is usually remembered these days as a hugely successful manager but he was a gifted player too. Not only did he play 627 games of club football, he also proudly represented his country on 20 occasions.

“The game then was very different and the players had to contend with heavy pitches, boots and kit. That was nothing compared to the weight of the ball itself though. In wet weather and after it became caked with mud they became extremely heavy and difficult to control.

“Famously the leather footballs were also very painful when the player headed a strong ball and made contact with the lace stitching which held the whole thing together so they were not an ideal design.”

The TOFFS old style leather football celebrates both the professional managerial and playing career of Sir Bobby. All of his teams and the number of appearances he made are represented on the ball with a gold printed roll of honour.

It tells the story of Sir Bobby’s football life through England, Fulham and West Bromwich Albion, and as a manager for Fulham, Ipswich Town, England, overseas to PSV Eindhoven, Sporting CP, Porto, Barcelona and back home to his roots with Newcastle United.

Michele adds: “When we decided to raise funds for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation we came up with a host of ideas. We wanted to recreate a piece of history to celebrate the life of such a legend and help to raise funds and awareness for his cancer charity.

“It had to be something special though and throughout our 20 year history producing thousands of shirts which cover the eras in which Sir Bobby played and managed, we had never produced a ball.

“The leather laced up ball is now iconic and takes us back to another and very different age of football. It showcases the incredible football career of a great man and everyone at TOFFS is proud that by creating this football we are also helping a wonderful charity.”

Pauline Buglass, head of fundraising for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, says: “Sir Bobby would no doubt be fascinated by this football. I’m sure it would have brought back a lot of memories for him.

“His football career was remarkable and it’s incredible to think he played in an era when these heavy balls were used and then went on to manage in the very different world of today’s Premier League.

“Hopefully it will sell extremely well in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. We’re very grateful for the ongoing support we’re receiving so we can continue Sir Bobby’s wish to tackle cancer through new and more effective treatments.”

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation football retails at £49.95 and 20 per cent of the proceeds of the sale will go to the charity. It is available only from www.toffs.com or by calling 0191 4913500.

Thanks to fantastic ongoing support, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has now raised over £2.5 million to fight cancer.

In addition to equipping the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care in Newcastle, the charity has funded a specialist research nurse and doctor.

It recently announced that it is working with Newcastle University and has committed to buying a Biomarker Generator, an ultra-compact cyclotron which will help with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and other serious diseases and costing in excess of £500,000.

The cyclotron works by creating radioactive tracers which are given to patients who subsequently undergo scan to provide information on cancer and other diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The information collected from imaging radioactive tracers helps doctors to understand where the disease is in each patient, how serious the disease is, and the underlying processes and pathways that are sustaining the illness.

Sir Bobby’s family are committed to continuing the work of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation with the valued help of Patrons including Alan Shearer, Steve Gibson, Mick Mills and Niall Quinn.

OCEAN TO OCEAN CHARITY CYCLISTS

2011-01-10T06:28:00.000-08:00

An ambitious group of north east cyclists are undertaking a sponsored coast to coast ride with a difference by cycling from Chile’s Pacific coast to the Atlantic Ocean in Argentina. The 1,000 mile challenge includes crossing the Andes mountain range and cycling around 100 miles a day.

The six riders are funding the trip themselves and raising money in aid of cancer charity the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. They are Duncan Dollimore (Whitley Bay), Jimmy Logue (Benton), John O’Neil (Chester le Street), Kevin Waugh (Low Fell), Gary Riley (Felling) and Andrew Morland (Low Fell).

Their 12-day ride is now underway and they have already hit a major snag when one of their bikes failed to arrive at Satiago Airport, one of their main concerns before setting off. As a result the group are now taking turns riding what they describe as ‘Chilean boneshaker of a bike’.

Organiser Kevin Waugh says: “We planned everything in great detail but there will always be unexpected issues to resolve.

“Just after New Year an earthquake hit central Chile and destroyed a railway bridge which we were supposed to be crossing on our train journey to our starting point in Constitucion. This means we’ll have to lug all six bikes and equipment on to the replacement bus service so I’m sure we’ll be popular with other travellers.

“We’ve all trained really hard but it has been difficult due to the weather and the snow has affected our preparation. We’re very determined though and raising money in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation is really motivating.

“Our generation has too few heroes but Sir Bobby gave us hope that great men still appear from time to time. It seems unlikely to us that we'll see another man like him which makes it easy to dedicate the biggest trip of our lives to his charity.”

Kevin and his co-riders were seen off on their epic journey by Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer OBE who is an enthusiastic patron of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and no stranger to cycling himself.

In 2008 Alan and fellow television presenter Adrian Chiles cycled from Newcastle to London via West Bromwich in aid of the Sport Relief charity. They completed the 335 miles in just two days.

Alan says: “I really admire these guys and know from experience just how hard this will be for them.

“It is a real test of endurance and believe me the ride will take its toll on more than just their lungs and legs. Bike saddles are not the comfiest things to sit on for any great length of time as Adrian and I found out.

“They all sound very confident though which is good and they know they are doing all this for a great cause.

“It’s because of committed fund-raisers like these lads that we’re able to keep building on Sir Bobby’s legacy and continue to help local cancer patients.”

Lady Elsie, Sir Bobby’s widow, also sent the group a good luck message before they set off saying: "I would like to thank you and your families so much for all your efforts in training and organising your South American cycle ride.

“I hope you complete it safely and look forward to meeting up with you all upon your return."

The Ocean to Ocean Bike Ride begins at Constitucion, Chile, on January 9 and ends at Atlantic Beach in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on January 19. It takes in the Andes mountain range and one of the highest passes between Chile and Argentina. The group will cycle close to the crash site of Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571, which was the subject of film and book Alive.

More information, how to make a donation and regular updates from South America are available via the website www.aridetoremember.co.uk.

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation was launched by Sir Bobby in March 2008 and has gone on to raise more than £2.5 million to fight cancer.

It operates within the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Foundation Trust to provide services not yet available within the NHS and directly benefits patients across the north east and Cumbria

The charity recently announced it is working with Newcastle University and is jointly committed to buying a Biomarker Generator, an ultra-compact cyclotron which will help with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and other serious diseases. It is only the second of its type in the world and the first in Europe and costs more than £500,000.

SEASONAL GOOD WISHES AND THANKS!

2010-12-24T02:50:00.000-08:00

Sir Bobby's family would like to thank fund-raisers for their hard work and support during 2010.

Everyone connected with the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation is looking forward to another successful year in 2011 raising funds to fight cancer.

Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year!

A KNIGHT TO REMEMBER IN SO MANY WAYS...

2010-12-21T01:14:00.000-08:00

A dvd produced in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation last year has already raised over £95,000 for the cancer charity and is selling well ahead of this Christmas.

Directed and produced by Geoff Wonfor and Ray Laidlaw, ‘A Knight to Remember’ contains exclusive footage of Sir Bobby’s final interviews and features contributions from high profile names from sport and entertainment including Gary Lineker, Sir Bobby Charlton, Ant and Dec, Des Lynam, Brendan Foster, Shay Given, Sir Alex Ferguson, Malcolm Macdonald, Jack Charlton, Bob Moncur, Steve Cram and Paul Gascoigne.

It also includes an introduction from Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer OBE who was on hand to receive the cheque for the money raised so far in his capacity as a patron of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

Alan says: “I’m very impressed by the amount A Knight to Remember has already raised and hopefully the dvd will be in a few Christmas stockings this year too.

“It’s a fantastic tribute to a great man and something I was happy to help with. It’s very funny in parts and understandably emotional in others. Ray and Geoff have done a great job with it and the money raised will be well spent helping people in the north east and Cumbria fighting cancer.”

In addition to interviews and footage from Sir Bobby’s career and fund-raising efforts, ‘Auf Wiedersehen Pet’ stars Tim Healy, Kevin Whately and Jimmy Nail perform a very special version of the Blaydon Races especially for the dvd, while each of Sir Bobby’s three sons offers a very personal perspective of the man who was simply ‘Dad.’

Geoff says: “Conducting Sir Bobby's final TV interviews was a career highlight for us and we are thrilled that the DVD is raising significant funds for his foundation.”

A Knight to Remember is priced at £17 and is available from JG Windows, HMV shops, nufc.co.uk and all good DVD retailers.

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation was launched by Sir Bobby in March 2008 and has gone on to raise more than £2.5 million to fight cancer.

It operates within the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Foundation Trust to provide services not yet available within the NHS and directly benefits patients across the north east and Cumbria

The charity recently announced it is working with Newcastle University and has jointly committed to buying a Biomarker Generator, an ultra-compact cyclotron which will help with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and other serious diseases. It is only the second of its type in the world and the first in Europe and costs more than £500,000.

NEW CANCER EQUIPMENT IS FIRST OF ITS KIND IN EUROPE

2010-11-29T09:03:00.001-08:00

When Sir Bobby Robson launched his charity in 2008 it was his heartfelt ambition to help fund world class cancer research and treatment within the north east. Today marks another significant step forward in fulfilling his ambition as the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and Newcastle University announce major investment into cancer research equipment, which is the first of its kind in Europe.

Newcastle University and the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation have committed to buying a Biomarker Generator, an ultra-compact cyclotron from ABT Molecular Imaging, Inc. (Knoxville, Tennessee, US), which will help with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and other serious diseases.

Only the second of its type in the world, it will be the first in Europe, and will help in the development of new cancer treatments to save lives.

ABT sells the Biomarker Generator for close to £1,000,000 and its purchase has been made possible thanks to incredible support from fund-raisers and donations to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and it will directly benefit cancer patients from across the north east and Cumbria.

The Biomarker Generator works by creating radioactive tracers which are given to patients who subsequently undergo scans (also known as imaging)to provide information on cancer and other diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The information collected from imaging radioactive tracers helps doctors to understand where the disease is in each patient, how serious the disease is, and the underlying processes and pathways that are sustaining the illness.

Herbie Newell, Professor of Cancer Therapeutics at the Northern Institute for Cancer Research, Newcastle University, explained: “This is a piece of equipment which will help us enormously in our fight against cancer. It is a really powerful technology which will allow us to assess which patients are most likely to benefit from particular types of drug or radiation therapy, and whether the treatments are working. It will especially help us with our research into new and better ways of treating cancer.

“As well as being valuable in diagnosing certain cancers, neurological and cardiac diseases, it can also help to show where drugs are going in the body. For individual patients it will help us work out whether drugs are working or if a different approach to treatment might be better."

Announcing investment into the Biomarker Generator marks a proud day for Sir Bobby’s widow, Lady Elsie Robson, and for his family and supporters of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

Lady Elsie said: “My husband was whole hearted in everything he set out to do and when he launched this charity he wanted to help fund the very best in terms of cancer research and treatment.

“My family and I are incredibly proud to know that his legacy continues to grow with the funding of this equipment and I know he would be bursting with pride too.

“Bob described this charity as his last and greatest team and that’s what it continues to be.
“Every single penny raised in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation helps in the fight against this terrible disease and I am very grateful for the ongoing efforts of all our wonderful supporters. Each and every one of them is part of this fantastic achievement and with continued support we will find more effective treatments for cancer.”

Newcastle has invested heavily over recent years in the development of imaging facilities for both clinical and research use. The cyclotron builds on support from the Regional Development Agency ONE North East, Cancer Research UK, and the Engineering and Physical Sciences and Medical Research Councils.

The cyclotron will be housed in a newly built ‘specialist environment’ in the School of Chemistry at Newcastle University. The ‘specialist environment’ is a requirement when making agents that will be administered to patients, and the University is funding this aspect of the project. The Head of the School of Chemistry, Professor Mike Green commented: “The purchase of the Biomarker Generator is the last piece in the jigsaw, and when this facility opens in summer 2011 we will have a fully integrated imaging facility in Newcastle.”

“The facility will be run by an extremely talented radiochemist, Dr Mike Carroll.
The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation was launched by Sir Bobby in March 2008 and has gone on to raise more than £2.5 million to fight cancer.

MOUNT EVEREST CHALLENGE BEGINS AT NORTHUMBRIA UNIVERSITY

2010-11-26T08:57:00.001-08:00

In December a Newcastle councillor will be taking on the world’s highest mountain in aid of north east cancer charity the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

Dipu Ahad from Elswick is trekking to Everest base camp, which is more than 5,550m above sea level where acute mountain sickness (AMS) poses a serious risk.

Intense preparation for this tough physical challenge is vital and Dipu is undertaking a strenuous diet and fitness regime with advice from Northumbria University’s Sports Science experts.

Not only that, the university is now equipped to acclimatise him for the difficult environmental conditions he will face thanks to a new state-of-the-art environmental chamber which was installed this week.

Dr Glyn Howatson, exercise physiologist and Laboratory Director in the Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, explains: “MyPhD student Jamie Tallent and I have been putting Dipu through his paces to get him in peak condition for his trek to Everest Base Camp.

“And we can now help him even further using our new environmental chamber which is the only one of its kind in the North East and is able to simulate heat, cold, humidity and altitude environments.

“We’re thrilled to have it as it makes it possible for us to simulate almost any environment on the earth’s surface here in Newcastle.

“It will give the team an idea about how Dipu will respond to the challenge of ‘thinner air’ and how much time he will need to acclimatise to the dizzy heights of Everest. The harder he finds it now, the more time he will need to invest in his preparation.”

The new environmental chamber at Northumbria University will be used for projects including research into physical and mental response to occupational tasks in challenging environments, acclimatisation and support for teaching so students can experience at first-hand what it is like to conduct simple tasks in physically demanding conditions.

It also offers opportunities for research into medical conditions like respiratory diseases, testing equipment in extreme conditions and will provide the region’s athletes with a facility to acclimatise to heat, cold and altitude prior to competition.

Dipu says: “I’ll be fulfilling a personal ambition when I reach Everest Base Camp. The training is very hard as I have been undertaking a strict and strenuous training and diet regime but I’m very determined and Glyn and his team have been hugely helpful. This time last year my body fat was 31.3 per cent and now I’m down to 17.9 per cent,I know their training advice is definitely working for me.

“I will be taking the more difficult and dangerous route to the base camp via Gokyo Lakes which adds an extra three to four days than the normal trekking route. In December the weather will be colder than the normal peak trekking season – all of which adds to the challenge.

“I’m also committed to raising as much money in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation as possible through the trek. It’s an important charity to me personally and I will do anything I can to help fund research into cancer and to help patients in the north east is a privilege.

“Cancer is not a disease which is often openly discussed in the Asian community and I’d like to change that too. There needs to be more awareness with regards to cancer in these communities and that help and advice is readily available.”

Dipu is funding his trek himself, including flights, food and accommodation, and every penny of sponsorship will go directly to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. To sponsor Dipu please visit www.justgiving.com/trek2everest.

NIALL QUINN BECOMES A PATRON OF THE SIR BOBBY ROBSON FOUNDATION

2010-11-05T08:48:00.000-07:00

Sir Bobby Robson’s family is proud to announce today that Sunderland AFC chairman, Niall Quinn, has agreed to become a Patron of north east cancer charity the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

Niall joins Alan Shearer, Ipswich legend Mick Mills and Middlesbrough FC chairman Steve Gibson as official representatives of the charity, which benefits patients from across the whole region.

Sir Bobby was a frequent visitor to Sunderland’s Stadium of Light and often talked of the warm reception he received at the club. After he lost his hard fought battle with cancer last July Sunderland fans sang Sir Bobby’s name at a pre-season friendly against Celtic. It was a very touching expression of respect – particularly given Sir Bobby’s association with the club’s rivals Newcastle United.

Lady Elsie said: “My family and I are very happy that Niall has agreed to become a Patron of the charity. His involvement is greatly appreciated and we know Bob would have backed our decision to ask Niall for help to carry on the fund-raising work.

“Newcastle United was his first love but my husband wanted success for all the north east teams and we’ve always had wonderful support from Sunderland Football Club and its fans.

“When Newcastle were away from home Bob often enjoyed football at the Riverside or the Stadium of Light. He had great respect for Niall, Steve Bruce and everyone else at Sunderland and enjoyed their company very much.

“Some things go beyond football and anyone who has been through the pain of seeing a loved one fighting this terrible disease will know that.”

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation was launched by Sir Bobby in March 2008 and it has gone on to raise more than £2.5 million to fight cancer within the region. Its main focus is funding research into more effective cancer treatments and the clinical trials of new anti cancer drugs.

The charity operates within the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Foundation Trust to provide services not yet available within the NHS. Every project it funds benefits patients from across the north east and Cumbria.

Talking about his new role as a Patron of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, Niall said: "I remember the night this Foundation was launched, and today a thousand patients are receiving help from Sir Bobby's efforts. That is incredible.

"The absolute answer was yes when I was asked to become a Patron. In keeping with Sir Bobby's way of being loved everywhere he wanted the places he was revered most to be covered by Patrons.

"Alan, Steve, myself and Mick can't come near what Sir Bobby has done through football and his life, but we are determined to keep the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation moving forward."

Andrew Robson, Sir Bobby’s son, added: “When my dad launched his cancer charity I don’t think he realised quite how successful it would become. The ongoing support we receive from fund-raisers is incredible and very much appreciated.

“We recently passed the £2.5 million mark and every penny is being spent helping people fighting cancer in the north east and Cumbria.

“My mum, my brothers and I are all very committed to continuing the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation’s important work and we couldn’t do that without the help of our fantastic patrons who also include Mick Mills, Alan Shearer and Steve Gibson.

“I know my father would be very proud and grateful to know that his charity is represented by such well respected football men from Suffolk, Tyneside, Teesside and Wearside.

“We had hoped to make this announcement about Niall earlier in the year but were unable to do so due to the travel situation caused by the volcanic ash clouds.

“We’re very happy to be able to do so now and, on behalf of my family, it gave me enormous pleasure to express our thanks and to welcome Niall to his new role as a Patron of Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.”

‘GANNIN ALONG THE SCOTSWOOD ROAD’ FOR THE SIR BOBBY ROBSON FOUNDATION

2010-10-29T13:31:00.000-07:00

North east band The Longsands is following in the footsteps of Geordie legends Tim Healy, Jimmy Nail and Kevin Whately by recording their own version of the Blaydon Races in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

The popular five piece band from Cramlington will be performing the famous Geordie anthem on the pitch immediately before Sunday’s big derby game and they may already sound familiar to many Newcastle United fans.

Songwriter and guitarist, Ian Barnes, says: “We’re all big Newcastle fans and a while ago were given the opportunity to record our version of the Blaydon Races which is played before the team comes out on a match day.

“We’ve always been really proud hearing The Longsands’ version of the song booming out at St James’ Park and our fans have regularly asked if we would release it as a single.

“The Auf Wiedersehen Pet lads recorded the song for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation’s A Knight to Remember dvd which was launched this time last year and we all agreed we’d like to do something to help raise money for this great cause too.

“It’s a fantastic north east charity and even though St James’ Park will be divided into black and white and red and white on Sunday we can all agree on the importance of funding research into cancer which will help local people.”

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation was launched by Sir Bobby in March 2008 and has gone on to raise more than £2.5 million to fight cancer within the region. Its main focus is funding research into more effective cancer treatments and the clinical trials of new cancer drugs.

Bill Corcoran, a local culture and heritage enthusiast, believes the Blaydon Races is much more than just a traditional folk song and is as relevant today as the day it was written.

Bill says: “The Blaydon Races is not just a folk song written in 1862, it’s a living regional anthem, sung on football terraces and overfull bars as well as on concert stages. It’s a happy song sung by confident and enthusiastic people sure of their identity and proud of their home.

“One of the reasons why Tyneside is so special is the unity of its people. Black or white, especially black and white, rich or poor, home or away, the Geordie people have a special spirit characterised by courage and humour which is renowned in the world.

“In a time of globalised homogeneity such regional pride that does not seek to decry others is rare and precious. The song’s lyrics show that, even in 1862, everyone was included in our community – from ‘Coffee Johnny’ to ‘Paddy Fagan’ – and it even highlights ‘the lads and lasses there, all with smiling faces’ enjoying the usual Tyneside party spirit.

“The Toon Army belting out our song about our wonderful city and region shows that wherever we are in the world, we wouldn’t want to be anyone else and especially be from anywhere else. It means celebration in victory or defiance in defeat. It is the most perfect terrace anthem for a proud people and it will be sung for generations yet.”

The Longsands’ Blaydon Races is available from www.thelongsands.co.uk from Sunday and is available to pre-order now The Longsands. The special charity download will include two different versions of the Blaydon Races and also feature a track called Bully from the band’s debut album Meet Me In Spanish City.

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation operates within the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Foundation Trust to provide services not yet available within the NHS. Every project it funds benefits patients from across the north east and Cumbria.

SIR BOBBY ROBSON FOUNDATION BACKS LEUKAEMIA RESEARCH

2010-10-06T08:03:00.000-07:00

A £20,000 contribution from the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation is helping further research into leukaemia within the north east.

Funding from the charity to the Leukaemia Research Cytogenetics Group has purchased an Olympus BHX6 fluorescence microscope, which is connected to a highly sophisticated image analysis system.

Professor Christine Harrison says: “This top of the range microscope is an important piece of equipment for us.

“Although our research is focussed on leukaemia, the techniques we’re using, and the use of the microscope, will be of great value to other researchers within the Northern Institute for Cancer Research.

“We’re grateful to everyone who has raised money in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation for helping to make this purchase happen.”

The research of the Leukaemia Research Cytogenetics Group involves the study of chromosomes in the bone marrow cells of patients with leukaemia. Abnormalities of these chromosomes indicate the type of leukaemia that each patient has, and more importantly, they provide an indication of the how the patient will respond to treatment.

This feature helps form decisions regarding patient treatment according to their abnormality, which ensures that they are given the most appropriate therapy and increase survival rates.

Lady Elsie says: “It’s a pleasure meeting with Professor Harrison today and learning more about the excellent leukaemia research work being undertaken in Newcastle.

“My husband was keen to support research into leukaemia after the sad death of young Jordan Thompson who played for Newcastle United’s Academy. And we were pleased to contribute £30,000 to the new Teenage Cancer Unit at the Royal Victoria Infirmary for the same reason.

“It was good to meet with Jordan’s mum Andrea today. Like so many people, we both have personal reasons to support research into all forms of cancer and I wish her well with her own fund-raising for the Toma Fund.”

The strength of research into blood cancers in Newcastle was recently recognised by the charity Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research, which described the city as a centre of excellence. In 2005 Sir Bobby officially opened the Paul O’Gorman Building at the Northern Institute for Cancer Research.

Lady Elsie adds: “My family and I take great pride in the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and never more so than when we can see the benefits it can provide to local cancer experts.

“We’re very appreciative of all the hard work being undertaken to raise money in aid of the charity and were thrilled to pass the £2.5 million mark. I know Bob would be so proud to see his legacy continuing to help other people fighting cancer.”

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation is currently involved in detailed discussions regarding significant investment into ground-breaking research equipment, which will benefit cancer patients from across the north east and Cumbria. This is a lengthy process due to the scale of the investment and the charity hopes to be able to announce details in the coming months.

GLITTERING EMERALD EVENING FOR SIR BOBBY

2010-09-30T12:38:00.000-07:00

One of the highlights of this years’ Tyneside Irish Festival will be a lively ball at St James’ Park in aid of north east cancer charity the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

Sir Bobby’s widow, Lady Elsie Robson, will be one of the guests of honour at the Emerald Ball on Friday 15 October for what promises to be a sparkling evening of music and laughter.

Hosted by Cork City’s storyteller ‘Pat the Hat,’ the Emerald Ball will feature music from the Michael Muldoon Irish Show Band, Irish cabaret dancing, a four-course dinner and disco. The star auction prize is a beautiful emerald necklace donated by Richard Sinton Jewellers, which organiser Tony Corcoran hopes will help raise a substantial total for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

Tony, director of the Tyneside Irish Festival, says: “This is a chance for the Irish community on Tyneside to celebrate and show their appreciation of what The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has done for the region. We are also very much aware that many Irish patients also benefit from the pioneering work of our hospitals.

The Emerald Ball is just one of the events organised by the Tyneside Irish Society for its annual festival, which this year runs between 8 – 24 October. Now in its 24th year, other Tyneside Irish Festival events include visits by star performers such as the singer Frances Black, the original De Dannan and the Wildcats of Kilkenny as well as performances of a new drama ‘Fences’, by the Beg, Borrow, Steal Theatre Company.

The Tyneside Irish Festival was established in 1985 and is renowned as the UK's largest Irish Cultural Festival.

It is the perfect opportunity for audiences to extend their experience of Irish culture during the two week festival of traditional and country Irish music, drama, ceilis, talks, storytelling and poetry.

Lady Elsie says: “I’m looking forward to the Emerald Ball and I’ve no doubts it will be a wonderful evening.

“The emerald necklace donated by Richard Sinton is stunning and I hope it will create a great deal of interest in the charity auction.

“It is very good of the Tyneside Irish Society to choose to raise money for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. My family and I very grateful for the efforts of everyone involved.”

Tickets for the Emerald Ball are priced at £40 and are available from Tourist Information, Market Street, Newcastle upon Tyne. For more information please call: 0191 2220398 or logon to www.tynesideirish.com

BORO FANS BACKING SIR BOBBY

2010-09-28T05:39:00.000-07:00

Boro Chairman Steve Gibson has praised fans who raised £13,000 for Teesside cancer patients via a charity football match at the Riverside Stadium.

Organised through popular Middlesbrough fanzine Fly Me To The Moon, the game in May raised almost £13,000 for north east cancer charity the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

Gibson, the Teesside Patron for the Foundation, received the cheque on behalf of the charity from Boro supporter Andy Clark and Fly Me to the Moon editor Robert Nichols.

Lifelong Boro fan Andy Clark, a national fuel manager from Billingham, was the driving force behind the fund-raising.

Andy said: “Last year we arranged a charity game at Conyers School in Yarm. It was pulled together at really short notice but we had a great time and raised £2,500 for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

“We were lucky enough to present that cheque to Sir Bobby in person and this year I was determined to raise even more money to help local people fighting cancer.

“We asked Steve Gibson if we could use the Riverside this time round and he kindly said yes. The venue made a huge difference and it was a very special day for everyone involved.”

The two teams were made up of regular contributors to Fly Me To The Moon’s online football message boards and were joined by former Middlesbrough players Paul Kerr and Mark Proctor. They were cheered on by an enthusiastic crowd of family and friends with vocal backing from supporters’ group Red Faction.

After 90 minutes the score stood at 1–1 and, after a lively penalty shoot-out, the game finished 11-11. Players and supporters then enjoyed a post-match celebration in the club’s Legends Lounge.

Steve Gibson said: “I was deeply touched when I was asked to be a patron of Sir Bobby’s Foundation and I am delighted that Middlesbrough FC’s involvement is already making a tangible difference in raising funds for the charity.

“This was a magnificent effort by a big-hearted group of Boro supporters. It’s important that all Boro fans realise that the Foundation isn’t just for the benefit of people on Tyneside, but across Teesside too, so I hope even more of our fans give their support to the charity.”

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation was launched in March 2008 to help cancer patients in the north east and Cumbria. Its main focus is clinical trials of new cancer drugs within the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care, Freeman Hospital in Newcastle.

In its first year, over 600 new patients from across the region have been treated there. The Centre treats patients on clinical trials of new cancer drugs including early trials of laboratory tested drugs which are being used in patients for the first time as well as those which are further on in development and being compared to standard treatments for effectiveness.

The Centre was constructed by the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Trust and equipped by the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. Its’ specialist staff are funded through Newcastle University, the NHS Trust, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and Cancer Research UK.

BBC RADIO 5 LIVE BROADCAST FROM THE SIR BOBBY ROBSON CANCER TRIALS RESEARCH CENTRE

2010-09-18T03:19:00.000-07:00

By Tom Chaplin:

Snaking cables, endless wires, beeping machines, complicated equipment, fine expertise, giant personalities: the radio folk from London have come to town.

For one day only BBC Radio 5 live broadcasted Gabby Logan’s afternoon show live from the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care, Freeman Hospital on Thursday 16th September.

The great and the good were there, obviously. Then there were the utterly stupendous, the fabulously committed, the embarrassingly talented, and the unerringly brave. And then there was, er, me. To make up the numbers? Hoover up the sandwiches? (Midday kick off, what do you expect?) To mooch around taking it all in.

I watched as Ruth Plummer… you know Ruth Plummer, Clinical Professor of Experimental Cancer Medicine, ushered Alan Shearer into a cubby-hole kitchen to make him a cuppa (white no sugar, for fans of detail).

I witnessed warm small talk between the ever-delightful Lady Elsie Robson and many recognisable faces…. with Gabby Logan about cake (more on that later), with Shearer about his tan (procured via golf she was reliably informed) and with Newcastle United’s Steve Harper about his tan (yes, golf also), and with many fundraisers and others keen to share a word.

I gaffawed as I realised radio people really do tiptoe around, manically making “we’re all doomed” gestures with their hands when a problem arises. Acting like ducks someone suggested, though the lady from the BBC preferred to refer to herself as a swan.

I smiled warmly as Gabby interviewed three patients of the centre: Terry who wasn’t much into reflexology, Claire who detailed the challenges of radiotherapy to the nation with amazing poise and calm, and Ruth – 78 years young, all zip wires and life’s-for-living and still fundraising.

I listened as the infectious enthusiasm of Lee McQueen, Apprentice winner and former employee of “Sir Alan”, enthralled with tales of Scarfell Pike, blisters and fundraising in honour of a mates’ mate who’d lost his battle with pancreatic cancer last summer.

I tasted the offering of Carol, Professor Plummer’s friend of many years, and the Foundation’s official unofficial cake maker. It was, as you’d expect, fine cake.

I heard as Warrant Officer Angela Kelly retold the story of Stevie Campbell – a Sergeant and “excellent soldier” based at Pelton with 3 Rifles who’d lost his life to an IED in Afghanistan, and who’s son was today to receive a shirt and football signed freshly by Alan Shearer. I heard too of her utterly inspiring fundraising on behalf the Foundation that she does with her dog, “Alan Shearer” and tale of Shearer (the dog) being randomly sent No.9 out of a possible 3000+ Race for Life race numbers.

I stood by in awe as a member of nursing staff offered me… ME…. a cup of tea. Thank you, but no I said in voice struggling to hide my surprise. What had I, in the company of all these people, these wonderful, hardy, energetic, inspiring, tough as nails, generous, thoughtful, life saving, brilliant people, done to deserve a cup of tea? Nothing. I’d done absolutely nothing but pick at the cheese savoury and mooch.

Sadly, almost as quickly as it kicked off – as with all good parties – this one was over before anyone had time to notice. The two and half million pound fundraising milestone had been mentioned on air. The radio gear packed up. The snaps had been taken, the cake gone. Gabby was done and ready for the train. Alan had departed. Lady Elsie and her three doting sons Andrew, Mark and Paul were saying warm goodbyes to staff and patients.

And so… snaking cables, endless wires, beeping machines, complicated equipment, fine expertise, giant personalities: gradually the centre begins to return to normality. Patients sit quietly receiving treatment, staff busily go about their work. The hum of activity as a cure is sought. And the unmistakable, unbreakable aura of one man remains. Thanks for a lovely afternoon, Sir Bobby.

BBC RADIO 5 LIVE BROADCAST FROM THE SIR BOBBY ROBSON CANCER TRIALS RESEARCH CENTRE

2010-09-16T08:07:00.000-07:00

On the day (Thursday 16th September) when the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation broke through the £2.5 million fund-raising mark, BBC Radio 5 live broadcast live from the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre as part of its Septemberfest festival.

The two hour national radio show, hosted by Durham University graduate and Newcastle United fan Gabby Logan, focussed on the pioneering cancer research being done at the Sir Bobby Centre and the ongoing work of north east cancer charity - the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

Interviewees included Sir Bobby’s widow and sons – Lady Elsie, Paul, Andrew and Mark Robson – Alan Shearer OBE, who is a patron of Sir Bobby’s charity, and Newcastle United goal keeper Steve Harper. In addition, Peter Beardsley visited the Centre to be filmed discussing the great legacy Sir Bobby Robson has left for other people fighting cancer.

Sir Bobby Robson Centre patients, staff and fund-raisers for the Foundation also contributed to the programme which paid tribute to Sir Bobby and the incredible legacy he left for cancer patients in the north east and Cumbria through his charity.

Speaking from the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre, BBC 5 live’s Gabby Logan said: “What a truly inspiring and magical place and Sir Bobby Robson’s presence loomed large all afternoon.

“It was a joy to meet the patients, nurses and Professor Plummer here and I hope the Foundation’s fund-raising goes from strength to strength.”

Talking about the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, Lady Elsie said: “Bob’s football legacy was great. But I think this is much more important and I think it was to him in the end. The charity was something very different, something very special. It was something which kept him vibrant and kept him going.

“I do get strength from coming here to the Sir Bobby Centre and it’s also very moving. This morning I felt it as I entered the building. It’s just a great legacy and when you see his name up on the sign. It’s tremendous what he did and all in the last two years of his life.”

On announcing the £2.5 million fund-raising mark had been passed Alan Shearer commented: “It’s an incredible achievement and a result of so many people’s generosity and so many people’s hard work.

“If he’s looking down today Sir Bobby will be smiling and will say that’s because of me. And so he should, he should be proud – he was an incredible man.”

Talking about the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre Alan added: “When you walk in here you shouldn’t see people smiling because you know why they’re here and what their treatment is for. But you do see so many people smiling.

“This is a very, very special place. We’ve all had family and friends who have lost people to cancer and Sir Bobby wanted to get to the bottom of that. He’s left a tremendous legacy.”

BBC Radio 5 live's Septemberfest, the station's annual festival, is in Newcastle and Gateshead from Thursday 16th to Sunday 19th September. It brings together all the elements of the 5 Live mix – news, sport and entertainment – in front of live audiences and will include coverage of the Great North Run, full details at www.bbc.co.uk/5live.

The Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care, Freeman Hospital in Newcastle opened in February 2009. In its first year, over 600 new patients from the north east and Cumbria have been treated there.

The Centre treats patients on clinical trials of new cancer drugs. These include early trials of laboratory tested drugs which are being used in patients for the first time as well as those which are further on in development and being compared to standard treatments for effectiveness.

This means cancer patients from across the region can choose to participate in trials and have an opportunity to try new treatments as they emerge.

The Centre was constructed by the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Trust and equipped by the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. Its’ specialist staff are funded through Newcastle University, the NHS Trust, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and Cancer Research UK.

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation operates within the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Trust and a wider cancer research network to provide services not yet available within the NHS.

A FUNNY WAY TO RAISE MONEY FOR THE SIR BOBBY ROBSON FOUNDATION...

2010-08-24T08:38:00.000-07:00

Mention the name Sir Bobby Robson and people will often smile remembering one of his many entertaining post-match comments.

Now local comedians are putting on an evening at the Hyena Comedy Club to raise money for his charity and they are hoping it will prove just as memorable.

‘A Night of the Old, New, Borrowed and Blue’ on Sunday 29 August is the brainchild of 22-year-old Lewis Chambers from Westerhope.

Lewis, a bank manager, is also a talented amateur comedian and is looking forward to testing himself on the Hyena’s stage, which has been graced by big names like Peter Kaye, Ross Noble, Jimmy Carr.

He says: “Obviously I have to be very professional in my day job so I enjoy the opportunity to be a bit daft in the evening.

“Myself and two other young amateur comedians will be performing and there will be a band too so it should be a great night. The Hyena isn’t charging us for the venue so every penny will go straight to Sir Bobby’s charity.

“I’m a big fan of Sir Bobby and like most people I was upset when he passed away. I’ve been really lucky as I haven’t been directly affected by cancer myself but I have friends who were not so fortunate.

“Nobody goes through life without being touched by this terrible disease in some way and we’re pleased to be doing our bit to help. We’re hoping to make as much as £2,000.”

More than 100 tickets have already been sold for ‘A Night of the Old, New, Borrowed and Blue.’

Lewis will be joined on stage by comedians Chris Dobinson and Mickey ’40 Quid’ Laidler and local band Cedarway.

Tickets are still available at £7 each from the Hyena Comedy Club on Leazes Park Road in Newcastle. Doors open at 7pm and the first act will be on stage around 9pm. For further information call 0191 232 6030 or visit www.thehyena.com.

QUEENS OWN SUPPORT FOR THE SIR BOBBY ROBSON FOUNDATION

2010-08-23T03:27:00.000-07:00

With military precision, the Queens Own Yeomanry has raised almost £6,000 for north east cancer charity the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

D Squadron, based at Fenham Barracks in Newcastle, decided to raise the money after Staff Sergeant Peter Smith lost his wife to the disease in November.

Peter, from Seghill, is a civil enforcement officer for North Tyneside Council and has three children Toni, James and Jack.

He says: “My wife Angela was just 44 when she died through renal cancer and it all happened very suddenly.

“As a TA unit we’ve always done what we can to help north east charities and I was touched when Captain Ian Stobbs suggested we raise money for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation in Angela’s memory.

“I’m proud of my unit. It’s just like them to pull together like this to help other people.”

Peter’s unit underwent gruelling physical challenges known as the ‘triple six’ to raise the money for Sir Bobby’s charity. The ‘triple six’ consists of swimming six 100m lengths of the pool, a 6km bike ride and a six mile forced march with full kit weighing 25 kilos.

Sir Bobby’s son Andrew visited Fenham Barracks to say thank you in person for the D Squadron’s efforts. He says: “It was a real pleasure to meet such committed fund-raisers.

“Having lost dad only last year I can understand what Peter and his family are going through but it must be particularly hard to lose a loved one to cancer so suddenly.

“With so much happening with our armed forces overseas it speaks volumes that these men still have the drive to focus on helping a local charity like this. My family and I are very grateful for this donation and wish them all the very best for the future.”

SIR BOBBY ROBSON FOUNDATION BUS

2010-07-14T00:28:00.000-07:00

Lady Elsie Robson climbed on board Go North East’s X25 bus – which pays tribute to her late husband and former England manager, Sir Bobby Robson - to visit Langley Park Primary School in County Durham.

Go North East service X25 has been given a special livery which features a favourite family photo of Sir Bobby and promotes the work of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, which raises money for the early detection and treatment of cancer.

The four, X25 double deck buses run between Langley Park - where Sir Bobby lived as a youngster - and Newcastle city centre and carry details of the Foundation website on the outside of the bus as well as more photos of Sir Bobby and information on his career and the Foundation inside the bus.

Lady Elsie had been invited to travel on the bus by Go North East Managing Director Peter Huntley and saw first hand how the service is helping to spread the message of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation as well as boost donations by incorporating the donation website address into its livery.

Arriving at Langley Park Primary School, Lady Elsie and Peter Huntley were treated to a display of footballing skills by members of the young school football team and handed over a cheque for £500 to the team from Go North East’s Community Fund.

“Go North East is well-known for operating some of the most eye-catching buses in the region,” said Peter Huntley, “many designed to provide strong cultural links with the communities they serve. When it came to deciding on a design for service X25, we were honoured that we could commemorate Sir Bobby Robson and reflect the connection he had with the community of Langley Park. Wherever our bus travels, it is helping to encourage people to support the Bobby Robson Foundation.”

Pauline Buglass, head of fund-raising for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, says: "We appreciate Go Ahead choosing to promote the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation on the X25 bus.

"It seems particularly fitting given Sir Bobby's close connections to both Langley Park and Newcastle and will help us to maintain awareness of his charity."

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation operates within the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Trust to help patients across the north east and Cumbria. It focuses on the early detection and treatment of cancer and the clinical trials of new drugs that will eventually beat it.

The charity was launched in March 2008 and, thanks to tremendous generosity from donors and fund-raisers, has now raised more than £2.4 million to help fight cancer.

WARM UP TO THE WORLD CUP FINAL WITH SIR BOBBY ROBSON FOUNDATION FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT

2010-06-26T02:23:00.000-07:00

On Sunday 11th July the world’s best footballers will be playing in the biggest game of their careers when the World Cup final kicks off in South Africa.

Now local footballers have the opportunity to test their own skills on the same day at a charity five-a-side tournament in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation in Newcastle.

The ‘Robson Fives’ is being organised by Ian Carr and Neil Eddy at SoccerWorld on Westgate Road, Newcastle. The tournament has Junior’s, Men’s and Women’s sections and has already attracted teams from as far away as London.

Within the region, popular football fanzines for Sunderland, Newcastle United and Middlesbrough football clubs - A Love Supreme, True Faith and Fly Me To The Moon – are each entering sides ensuring strong local rivalry and a lively competition.

The Women’s section will be equally strong and Newcastle United Women’s Club and Chelsea Academy Ladies are just two of the teams taking part.

As well as being a fitting curtain raiser to the World Cup final, which will be screened in the bar following the tournament, players will also be helping to raise money for an important local cause.

Organiser Ian Carr, a call centre worker from Gateshead, says: “It seems appropriate to run this tournament on the same day as the World Cup final given how close Sir Bobby came to getting us there in 1990.

“We ran a similar five-a-side competition in aid of his charity last year and raised £535. This year we’re aiming to better that total and enjoy another day of competitive football in aid of a great cause.

“We’ve already attracted more teams and have opened the tournament up to women’s teams too. Newcastle United Women’s Club were one of the first teams to sign up and we appreciate their involvement.”

Thanks to incredible ongoing support the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has now raised over £2.4 million to fight cancer for the benefit of patients in the north east and Cumbria.

In addition to equipping the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre, the charity has funded a specialist research nurse and doctor and enhanced a children’s waiting area at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care.

It has also contributed £30,000 to the new Teenage Cancer Unit at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle and all of these projects benefit cancer patients from across the entire region.

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation operates within the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Trust and a wider cancer research network to provide services not currently funded by the NHS.

Ruth Sutcliffe from Jesmond, vice captain of Newcastle United Women’s Club, says: “My grandma had cancer so sadly, like most people, I’ve had personal experience of the disease.

“We’re proud to support community events like this and we all admire Sir Bobby. As a team we’re keen to do what we can to help his charity to fight cancer in the north east.”

Ian adds: “We’re all looking forward to the Robson Fives and will be making it an occasion for the whole family to enjoy with bouncy castles, face painting, balloons, karaoke and a barbecue. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy World Cup final day and do something to help Sir Bobby’s charity too.”

Anyone who would like to enter a team for any section of the tournament can still do so by calling SoccerWorld on 0191 241 7707 or by visiting www.bobbyrobsontournament-2010.co.uk

VIRGIN MEDIA SUPPORTS SIR BOBBY'S CHARITY

2010-05-26T00:49:00.000-07:00

To raise much-needed funds for the fight against cancer, twenty years after Sir Bobby Robson led England to the World Cup semi-finals, Virgin Media has pledged to make a donation to the charity set up in his name every time a visitor to this site watches any video clips.

www.wc2010.virginmedia.com

Virgin Media has pledged to give 20% of the revenue generated from all videos viewed - and if the England team goes one better in 2010 and wins the World Cup, we will give an extra 10% to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

So the more times the video clips are watched on this site, the more money will be given to help in the fight against cancer, an illness which Sir Bobby bravely fought five times.

Sir Bobby's son, Mark Robson, said: "We're very grateful that Virgin Media has offered their support with this tribute to my dad. It's a fantastic way to raise funds to help improve the lives of other people fighting cancer and to make people aware of his charity. The money raised will help fund clinical trials of new cancer drugs, which is something dad was passionate about.

"Italia 90 is remembered as one of the highlights of dad`s career. He was extremely proud to be manager of England and his team's achievements at Italia 90 were unforgettable. It was a very special tournament which inspired so many people in a way only the World Cup can."

‘WHIRLWIND’ SUPPORT FOR THE SIR BOBBY ROBSON FOUNDATION...

2010-05-20T01:45:00.000-07:00

Snooker legend Jimmy ‘Whirlwind’ White will be in Newcastle next week to support the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

Jimmy is the guest star at a sell out fund-raising event at Westfield Social Club on Westgate Road in Newcastle. He will be playing a frame of snooker against the highest bidders in an auction to benefit Sir Bobby’s cancer charity.

Jimmy, who has fought cancer himself, says: “For me to be able to help raise some money in Sir Bobby Robson’s name, that’s just fantastic. He was always doing things to help other people and it’s really an honour for me to be able to help out.

“I must have been to Newcastle hundreds of times. I’m a big Chelsea fan and I’ve seen maybe 15 or 20 games at St James’ Park. The atmosphere there is second to none.”

The event on Wednesday 26 May is being organised by Michael Sheldon from Westerhope and the members of the Westfield Snooker Team.

Michael is thrilled at the positive response from local snooker fans and says: “We sold out all 200 tickets for this night in no time at all. Everyone is excited to see Jimmy play at close quarters and a lucky few will also get the chance to match themselves against him.

“It will be a fantastic evening and we’re very proud to help support Sir Bobby’s cancer charity.”

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation operates within the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Trust to help patients across the north east and Cumbria. It focuses on the early detection and treatment of cancer and the clinical trials of new drugs that will eventually beat it.

The charity was launched in March 2008 and, thanks to tremendous generosity from donors and fund-raisers, has now raised more than £2.4 million to help fight cancer.

IPSWICH LEGEND MICK MILLS BECOMES SUFFOLK’S PATRON OF THE SIR BOBBY ROBSON FOUNDATION

2010-04-23T03:44:00.000-07:00

Sir Bobby Robson’s cancer charity receives fantastic ongoing support from fans of all of his former clubs – and outside the north east that support is undoubtedly strongest in Suffolk where fans of Ipswich Town continue to raise funds in his name.

Ipswich Town enjoyed a period of incredible success under 13 years of Sir Bobby’s management including winning both the FA and UEFA cups. As well as regular European football, the team finished league runners-up twice - and all this was accomplished relying largely on players brought up through the club’s youth programme.

For a relatively small club, the achievements of Ipswich Town during Sir Bobby’s reign were tremendous and prompted the Football Association to offer Sir Bobby the position of England manager.

In recognition of his influence at Ipswich Town Sir Bobby was honoured with the position of Honorary President and was granted the freedom of the town 30 years after that historic UEFA Cup win.

Now, in turn, Sir Bobby’s family would like to recognise the tremendous support given to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation by Ipswich Town and its fans and is proud to announce Mick Mills MBE, Sir Bobby’s club captain, has agreed to become a patron of the charity.

Lady Elsie Robson says: “When we launched the charity we were overwhelmed at the support and generous donations which flooded in from Suffolk. Bobby often used the word faithful and that is how he described that support.

“It’s touching that he is so well remembered in Suffolk. We enjoyed our time there a great deal and my family and I have very fond memories of Ipswich.

“Given the wonderful and ongoing support Bobby’s charity is receiving from Suffolk we felt it would be appropriate to have a Patron to officially represent the Foundation in the town. We couldn’t think of anyone better to ask than the man who led Bobby’s team to such great successes on the pitch and we were very pleased when Mick kindly agreed to help.

“Mick’s support is greatly appreciated as we continue to raise money to fight this terrible disease.”

After Sir Bobby lost his brave battle with cancer in July last year Ipswich Town named a stand at the club in his name. Lady Elsie and two of Sir Bobby’s sons officially renamed the stand on the day Newcastle United visited Portman Road in September last year and the occasion was also marked by the pre-match appearance of players from Sir Bobby’s legendary Ipswich side.

Both teams ran out special commemorative shirts bearing the logo of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, which were then auctioned off in aid of the charity.

Mick says: “Ipswich Town holds a very important chapter in Sir Bobby’s life and it was an honour to be part of the occasion when Newcastle came to Portman Road last September.

“It was very important for Ipswich Town to do something personal to remember Sir Bobby as his contribution to the club was immense. I think they did very well and it was a perfect day although obviously the result went against us. Now we have the Sir Bobby Robson Stand as well as the statue outside Portman Road and they are both very well deserved.

“What I think Bobby would have liked best of all though is the way he has linked these two football clubs. He was a Newcastle United supporter as a boy and you never forget that team. It was so special for him to go on and manage the club and he is a common denominator for fans of both teams.

“I was absolutely delighted to be asked by Sir Bobby’s family to become a patron for his charity. It means a lot to be well thought of by them and it’s nice that even though Bobby has gone I can continue my association with him.

“We both came through difficult times together and working hard with a very talented team went on to reap the rewards. We worked together for a long time as manager and captain and it was without question my most enjoyable period within football.”

Mick’s new role with the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation will be made official with a pre-match presentation to fans ahead of the Newcastle United versus Ipswich game on 24 April. This will also be an opportunity for Sir Bobby’s family to say thank you to both clubs and their fans for their tremendous ongoing support for the charity.

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has now raised over £2.4 million to fight cancer. Its main focus is the clinical trials of new anti-cancer drugs.

The charity has equipped and partially staffed the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care in Newcastle, which treated 560 patients in its first year. For many of these patients standard cancer treatment is no longer effective and they are prepared to take a chance on something new. Without the Sir Bobby Robson Centre they would probably not have the opportunity to do so.

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation operates within the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Trust and a wider cancer research network to provide services not currently funded by the NHS.

Lady Elsie receives Sir Bobby's FIFA Fair Play Award

2010-04-09T08:42:00.000-07:00

TRIBUTE TO “THE BEST PRESIDENT WE NEVER HAD”

2010-03-30T03:40:00.000-07:00

The Lord’s Taverners will celebrate the life of “the best President we never had” - Sir Bobby Robson - on Friday 14 May at the Royal Lancaster Hotel, London, with Sir Alex Ferguson and many of Sir Bobby's famous footballing friends paying tribute.

Sir Bobby loved cricket as well as football and was due to succeed Mike Gatting as President of The Lord’s Taverners in 2007. Sadly, ill health prevented him from doing so but he remained a big supporter. Now cricket’s favourite Charity is paying tribute to one of football’s favourite sons.

Hosted by Bob “The Cat” Bevan, the event is being hosted jointly in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and The Lord’s Taverners. Lady Elsie Robson and sons Andrew, Mark and Paul will be attending on the day.

Tickets cost £95 for members of The Lord's Taverners (£110 for Associates and Non Members) including pre-lunch drinks reception, three-course meal and half a bottle of wine per person. To book tickets please download the booking form or contact the Events Department on 020 7821 2828.

Glamorous Dinner Dance

2010-03-18T05:32:00.000-07:00

Seaham Hall is hosting a dinner dance in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation on Friday 30th April.

The night of glitz and glamour will commence at 7pm with arrival drinks and canapés followed by a five course dinner in the Ballroom.

Seaham Hall's talented chefs have created a menu to delight the palate and the evening’s entertainment will be provided by the fabulous Taylor Moon Band with dancing until the small hours.

Tickets are priced at £50 per person with £10 from each ticket sold being donated to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and further fundraising on the evening.

To book please call Seaham Hall on 0191 516 1400 or email kelly.beetham@seaham-hall.co.uk

ON YOUR FEET SOLDIER!

2010-03-16T08:11:00.001-07:00

Soldier Angela Kelly from Sacriston, County Durham, is organising a sponsored walk in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) Forces Help.

On Saturday 27 March Warrant Officer Kelly and her dog, Alan Shearer, will be walking the three miles from Sacriston, the birthplace of Sir Bobby Robson, to Langley Park where the football legend grew up.

She is appealing for people to join her and as well as the walk, other activities on the day include Beat the Goalie, Guess the Name of the Toy Soldier, face painting, a brass band and an aerobics warm up.

Angela, who is based at the Royal Centre for Defence Medicine at Selly Oak Hospital in Birmingham, says: “I’ve wanted to do this walk for some time because I really admire the hard work Sir Bobby put into his charity while he was so poorly himself.

“These are two charities which are very close to my heart because I love football and because of my role as a serving soldier.

“It won’t be anything like an army style march! This will be a fun day out for everyone who comes along and anyone like me who would like to bring their dogs is very welcome.”

The walk starts at 10.30am in Sacriston with registration from 9.45am. There is transport back to Sacriston after the walk where there will be a buffet and raffle and walkers will also receive a free goody bag.

Thanks to ongoing support, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has now raised over £2.2 million to fight cancer for the benefit of patients across the north east.

In addition to equipping the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre, the charity has funded a specialist research nurse and doctor and enhanced a children’s waiting area at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care.

It also recently contributed £30,000 to the new Teenage Cancer Unit at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle. The Foundation will be announcing a very significant investment into cancer research equipment early this year.

The charity operates within the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Trust and a wider cancer research network to provide services not currently funded by the NHS.

To make a donation, view messages of support, or for more information on the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, please visit www.sirbobbyrobsonfoundation.org.uk or donate by sending a cheque to Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, PO Box 307, Heaton NE7 7QG.

SSAFA Forces Help runs SSAFA Norton House, a 'home from home' for the families of injured servicemen and women who are being treated at Selly Oak Hospital. The charity also runs family support groups for those dealing with bereavement or life-changing injuries.

Anyone interested in taking part in the walk should contact WO Kelly on 0783 7021 914.

THE FIRST SIR BOBBY ROBSON ‘TRIBUTE SHIRTS’ ARRIVE IN AFRICA

2010-03-05T05:50:00.000-08:00

Football shirts left in tribute to Sir Bobby Robson after his death in July last year are now being received by children in some of the world’s poorest countries.

Around 6,000 football shirts, scarves and flags were left by fans at Sir Bobby’s former clubs - Newcastle United, Ipswich Town, West Bromwich Albion and Fulham – in an incredible outpouring of affection and respect for the former England manager.

Many feature touching personal messages regarding Sir Bobby and they are now being distributed by a number of charities - KitAid, the RAF’s Taking Football to Africa and Beyond Appeal, Coaches Across Continents and CAFOD – to benefit disadvantaged people in Eastern Europe, Asia, South America and Africa.

The first shirts distributed overseas have been delivered to Gambia where they are being used by The Association For Child Education (TAFCE) - an education and vocational skills project set up by local people in Kerewan.

A delivery has also been made to a project run by Don Bosco Homes, which helps street children in Liberia.

Sir Bobby’s youngest son, Mark Robson, recently helped the charity KitAid box up hundreds of the shirts ready for distribution overseas. He plans to visit Kenya later this year to see the benefits the shirts are bringing at first hand.

Mark says: “It’s truly amazing to hear the stories about how much a simple piece of football kit means to these children.

“I’m very much looking forward to helping deliver some of these tribute items so I can see for myself the difference it is making.

“As a family we were taken aback by the response to dad’s death – it was all on such an incredible scale. Tens of thousands of pounds was donated to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation in his memory and the scenes with all the football memorabilia at St James’ Park and in Ipswich were just incredible.

“We are very touched that so many people thought so highly of him. I’m sure my dad, above all people, would be very happy knowing these children are enjoying playing and following football because they have a football shirt of their own.”

Since its launch in 1998, KitAid has distributed 100,000 items of football kit to 35 different countries.

The charity’s founder, Derrick Williams, says: “We’re really pleased that the first shipment of Sir Bobby Robson shirts has arrived in Gambia and the reaction from the children who received them was superb.

“They love anything to do with football in the UK and they are now all following the English teams with even more interest.”

For further information regarding KitAid please visit www.veoliawater.co.uk/kitaid.

SIR BOBBY ROBSON CANCER TRIALS RESEARCH CENTRE CELEBRATES FIRST ANNIVERSARY

2010-02-19T09:37:00.000-08:00

The Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre is celebrating its first anniversary this week – a birthday it shares with the man who was so instrumental in raising the money required to equip it.

Sir Bobby Robson would have been 77-years-old this week (18th Feb) and a year ago he officially opened the cancer drugs trials centre at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care, Freeman Hospital in Newcastle.

Over the past year, the Centre has treated 560 patients from Cumbria, Northumberland, Teesside, Tyneside, Wearside and County Durham. It helps ensure people in the north east have early access to treatments for cancer, which are often so new that they are not yet available through the NHS.

Professor Ruth Plummer, director of the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre, says: “Opening this Centre a year ago has made a huge difference to the lives of people living with cancer in the north east.

“Patients here have tried standard cancer treatments which they have found are no longer effective and they’re prepared to try something new.

“It’s a wonderfully warm and positive place to work and I count myself very lucky to be part of the team here.”

Sir Bobby launched the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation after request for help from Professor Plummer.

She asked for help raising £500,000 to equip the cancer drugs trials unit and amazingly that initial target was reached in just seven weeks.

Professor Plummer adds: “It was an incredible occasion when we officially opened the Centre last year. We all sang happy birthday to Sir Bobby even though we had some very high profile guests including England manager Fabio Capello!

“Sadly Sir Bobby is not here to celebrate with us today. We couldn’t have achieved all we have for cancer patients in the north east without him. He’s a great miss and we’re very grateful for the incredible legacy he has left us.”

The Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre treats patients on clinical trials of new cancer drugs. These include early trials of drugs which are just starting to be used in people as well as those which are further on in development and being compared to standard treatments for effectiveness.

This means cancer patients from across the region can choose to participate in trials and have an opportunity to try new treatments as they emerge.

Thanks to ongoing support, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has now raised over £2.2 million to fight cancer in the north east.

In addition to equipping the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre, the charity has funded a specialist research nurse and doctor and enhanced a children’s waiting area at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care.

It also recently contributed £30,000 to the new Teenage Cancer Unit at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle and will be making a very significant investment into cancer research equipment early this year.

The charity operates within the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Trust and a wider cancer research network to provide services not currently funded by the NHS.

Lady Elsie says: “My husband was very proud that this Centre carried his name. He put so much into fund-raising for his Foundation and I think he enjoyed managing a team again.

“It certainly wasn’t easy for him given his own fight against cancer at that time, but he was determined to do what he could to help other cancer patients in the north east.

“My three sons and I are very committed to continuing fund-raising in Bobby’s name. We’re lucky to have the help of wonderful patrons like Alan Shearer and Steve Gibson and the football clubs in the north east and in Ipswich are all being very supportive of our efforts.

“Bobby said though that it was the man in the street who really made the difference. He was always so touched when strangers at the match would give him a £10 note to put in the Foundation with no thoughts of thanks or recognition.

“I’m very grateful to everyone who has contributed to my husband’s charity by fund-raising or donating money. With continued support we’ll keep going to help all those people who sadly have to go through the hard fight against cancer like Bobby did.

“Every day experts like Ruth move us closer to more effective treatments and one day we’ll beat this terrible disease.”

STEVE GIBSON BECOMES TEESSIDE PATRON OF THE SIR BOBBY ROBSON FOUNDATION

2010-02-15T12:06:00.001-08:00

Middlesbrough FC Chairman Steve Gibson hopes his new role as a patron of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation will help to increase fund-raising activities on Teesside.

Gibson has agreed to represent the north-east cancer charity as its Teesside patron and help to spread the word that it is for the benefit of patients from across the entire region.

The Boro Chairman, whose father died of cancer, was unveiled in his new role at a Riverside Stadium news conference attended by Sir Bobby’s widow, Lady Elsie, and his son Andrew.

Gibson said: “It was a privilege to get to know Bobby while he was manager of Newcastle. We became friendly and he continued to be a regular visitor to the Riverside and to our training ground at Rockliffe Park after that.

“He had affection for all the north-east clubs. He was a man of great dignity and well-loved by all fans, so it was an honour to be asked to be a patron for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

“My father died of cancer and there’s hardly a family that hasn’t been affected by it. We believe the Foundation can make great strides forwards in the advancement of treatment for cancer and hopefully find a solution to a complex problem.

“It’s important to stress that the Foundation isn’t just for the people of Newcastle, it’s for the north-east and stretches down to Teesside.

“Bobby wanted the benefits of his Foundation to extend across the north-east and it’s now my job to push the charity as much as I can especially here on Teesside.

“What we are striving to do now is to raise as much capital as possible towards research projects.

Sir Bobby Robson achieved incredible success at home and abroad during a football career that lasted more than 50 years and took him almost as far as a World Cup Final.

The former England player and manager began his professional football life at Fulham Football Club but it could so easily have begun on Teesside when he had a trial with Middlesbrough in 1948.

Sadly for Sir Bobby his trial was unsuccessful, and Middlesbrough’s loss was Fulham’s gain on that occasion, but he always maintained a great regard for the club.

It is therefore appropriate that Sir Bobby’s widow, Lady Elsie, should call upon Steve Gibson to represent Sir Bobby and to help continue the work of his cancer charity.

Lady Elsie said: “My family and I are committed to continuing the work Bobby began though his Foundation and Steve agreeing to help by becoming our Teesside Patron means a great deal to us.

“Bobby thought very highly of Steve and the set-up at Middlesbrough Football Club and I’m sure he would approve of his involvement in his charity.

“We’re very grateful to Steve for formally representing the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation as a Patron and for helping us to raise money to fight this terrible disease.”

Steve Gibson joins Alan Shearer as a Patron of the charity, which Sir Bobby launched in March 2008 following a request for help from his oncologist Professor Ruth Plummer.

So that it could be quickly and easily set up, the Foundation operates within the Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Charity. However, every penny raised for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation contributes to cancer services and projects which benefit patients from the entire north east region.

Thanks to incredible ongoing support, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has now raised over £2.2 million to fight cancer.

In addition to equipping the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre, the charity has funded a specialist research nurse and doctor and enhanced a children’s waiting area at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care. It also recently contributed £30,000 to the new Teenage Cancer Unit at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle.

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation operates within the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Trust and a wider cancer research network to provide services not currently funded by the NHS for the benefit of patients from across the north east.

These services include the clinical trials of drugs which are at such an early phase in their development that they are not yet licensed by the NHS.

STEVE GIBSON AND ANDREW ROBSON INTERVIEW

2010-02-14T02:04:00.001-08:00

Middlesbrough FC chairman Steve Gibson and Sir Bobby's son Andrew talk about Steve's new role as Teesside Patron of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

www.mfc.co.uk/articles/20100213/chairman-named-charity-patron_70639_1964636

FUND-RAISING DINNER AT BORO'S RIVERSIDE STADIUM

2010-01-26T10:36:00.000-08:00

With the support of Middlesbrough FC, the Mike Findley MND Fund is organising a fund-raising dinner for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation at the Riverside on 22 April.

The guest speaker is Sir Bobby’s Fulham team mate Alan Mullery and further guests will be announced shortly.

Tickets cost £45 and are available via mikefindley@ntlworld.com or by calling 0780 5764 212.

SIR BOBBY ROBSON FOUNDATION TWITTER

2010-01-25T06:53:00.000-08:00

You can now keep up to date with news from the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation via Twitter.

George Caulkin, journalist, author and a patron of the charity, will be tweeting regularly on our behalf.

You can follow the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation on Twitter at https://twitter.com/SBRFoundation

‘ROCKING ON’ IN THE FIGHT AGAINST CANCER

2010-01-25T06:35:00.000-08:00

Northumberland musicians are fighting cancer through rock music after a charity concert at an Amble pub raised £1,206 for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

The sell out event at the Wellwood Arms featured three local bands – Life Crisis, Mudsharks and The Range. 'Wellwoodstock' was organised by Tim Fairbridge and Ian Fairbairn and was such a success that the bands are planning to repeat it later this year.

Ian Fairbairn, who lives in Amble and works at Rio Tinto Alcan’s Lynemouth Power Station, says: “Putting this charity event on was an amazing experience for all of us.

“We wanted to put on an evening of live music and as we began planning it we thought it could help a local charity too. We’re all Newcastle United fans so the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation was an obvious choice.

“I actually shared the same birthday as Sir Bobby although he was born a long time before me. He’s a man we all admired and we were very sad when he passed away.

“We’re very proud to support his charity and help local people with cancer. It’s a disease which has affected people we know and sadly I don’t think many people go through life without being touched by it one way or another.

“When my employers Rio Tinto Alcan found out what we were doing they donated an extra £200 to boost the overall total which was great.”

The three Wellwoodstock bands recently came together again to meet with Sir Bobby’s youngest son, Mark Robson, at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care in Newcastle.

Mark says: “Dad loved live music but I’m not sure a rock night would have been his cup of tea!

“He would have been very appreciative of the efforts the bands and Wellwood Arms went to on behalf of his charity though.

“The money raised will be spent on cancer projects which will help patients from across the north east, including the clinical trials of new drugs.

“Often these drugs are at such an early stage in development that they are not yet licensed by the NHS. That’s where the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation is helping with funding.

“Events like Wellwoodstock are vital to the ongoing success of the charity and the fight against this terrible disease. We’re grateful to Ian and all the bands for thinking of us.”

Thanks to incredible ongoing support, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has raised over £2.1 million since its launch in March 2008.

In addition to equipping the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre, the charity has funded a specialist research nurse and doctor and enhanced a children’s waiting area at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care. It also recently announced a £30,000 contribution to the Teenage Cancer Unit at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle.

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation operates within the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Trust and a wider cancer research network to provide services not currently funded by the NHS for the benefit of patients from across the north east.

TEENAGE CANCER PATIENTS BENEFIT FROM SIR BOBBY ROBSON FOUNDATION DONATION

2010-01-16T05:45:00.000-08:00

Money donated to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation by Newcastle United will be used to benefit teenage cancer patients from across the region.

£30,000 raised by auctioning player’s shirts from the recent Ipswich v Newcastle match will go towards the new Teenage Cancer Unit in the Great North Children’s Hospital at the Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI) in Newcastle.

The specialist unit is being constructed by the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Trust in partnership with the Teenage Cancer Trust in the ‘penthouse’ of the new children’s hospital. It will provide teenage cancer patients with a home away from home when they require treatment and bridge the gap between existing services, which are designed for younger children or adult patients.

Kevin Nolan and Steve Harper were two of the Newcastle United players whose match shirts were auctioned. They came into the RVI with Pauline Buglass, head of fund-raising for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, to meet with 15-year-old patient Rebecca Johnson from Ashington.

Rebecca often faces time in hospital when she is receiving treatment for Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Currently that means staying with younger children within the paediatric wards with few distractions available for patients her age.

Rebecca says: “The nurses here are fantastic and really care but it can be hard being in a ward with so many younger patients.

“There are lots of arts and crafts and games for the children but not much for older kids. It’s not that you always want to be playing games or whatever but time here can really drag if you don’t have something to do.

“Nobody wants to be in hospital but when the Teenage Cancer Unit is finished there will be other patients my age who understand how I feel and more things for me and my friends to do when they come and visit.”

The contribution from the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation will help fund flat screen televisions and entertainment equipment in the new unit, which will treat teenage cancer patients from across the North East.

Pauline Buglass, head of fund-raising for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, says: “The overwhelming majority of money donated to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation is used to fund clinical trials into new cancer drugs not yet licensed by the NHS.

“However Sir Bobby was always committed to contributing to other cancer related projects when appropriate and his family felt this was one of those occasions.

“We’re very grateful to Newcastle United and to all the people who helped make this donation possible by bidding for the match worn shirts.”

Sir Bobby spent 13 successful years as manager of Ipswich Town and in recognition of his connection to both clubs match shirts were especially made for this game featuring the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation logo.

Newcastle won the match 4-0 including a hat-trick of goals from Kevin Nolan and his number 4 shirt alone raised an incredible £5,400.

Kevin says: "It was a real pleasure for myself and Steve to meet with Rebecca at the RVI. Being in hospital is difficult to deal with at any age but particularly so for teenage patients.

"The sum of money raised from the shirts we wore at the Ipswich game was phenomenal and it's terrific that it's being put to such a good cause through the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

"We hope that patients in the Teenage Cancer Unit benefit from it for years to come."

SIR BOBBY ROBSON FOUNDATION FUNDS SPECIALIST CANCER NURSE

2010-01-05T07:45:00.000-08:00

A specialist trainee research nurse is now part of the team at the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre – funded through the ongoing generosity of donors and fund-raisers to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

Chris Dobb, aged 51 from Newcastle, joins the team in the clinical trials unit in the Northern Centre for Cancer Care at the Freeman Hospital, Newcastle.

She qualified as a nurse over 20 years ago and has a wealth of experience in different areas including high dependency and school nursing. Two years ago she began work in clinical research and was so inspired she leapt at the opportunity to work at the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre.

Chris comments: “My main responsibility as a trainee research nurse is to learn from the experience of the cancer specialist nurses around me and to support them.

“This is a very supportive environment for patients and the medical staff. What hits you as soon as you start working here is the sense of a real team effort. The staff here are extremely professional and there is a mixture of different cancer specialities and the multi disciplinary approach is very effective.

“The patients who come here are dealing with extremely difficult issues and the way they handle that and go on with their lives as normal is incredible. The team here has a great deal of respect for them.

“I’m thoroughly enjoying my new role. I love the patient contact, getting to know them and their families and building a relationship with them.

“It’s a privilege being part of something this worthwhile. Looking at new ways to beat cancer and being part of such a dedicated team of medical specialists.”

The Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre was constructed by the Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Trust and equipped by the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. Its specialist staff are funded through Newcastle University, the NHS Trust, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and Cancer Research UK.

Patients from across the north east visit the centre for treatment and to participate in clinical trials of cancer drugs which are so new that they are not yet licensed by the NHS.

Professor Ruth Plummer, director of the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre, says: “Chris’ appointment is an investment in the long-term future both of this centre and cancer research in the north east.

“Sir Bobby was very proud of this Centre and the staff who are lucky enough to work here are proud of it too. It’s a very special and upbeat place to work and the patients who come here know that by taking part in clinical trials of new cancer drugs they are part of the larger fight against this disease.

“With incredible support from fund-raisers and donors we have achieved a great deal in a short time but there’s still so much we can do. We will be announcing a very significant investment into cancer research in the New Year and will continue to grow the legacy Sir Bobby kindly left us.”