Memoribilia of George Best's First Match.

Image by Sarah Quinn Armitt via Flickr

 I went to an antiques fair on Sunday and it was nearing the end of the day and an elderly gentleman, like my self, was selling stuff off for any offer. I had glanced at a 1964 Manchester United v Birmingham City programme which he wanted £4 for. I offered him two pounds and he accepted and said that he had a few other Manchester United bits and pieces that he would throw in.
 Much to my surprise it included a letter dated 22 September 1963 from a Mr. R. Best at 16 Burren Way, Belfast and read:-

"Dear Mr. Drury,
                         Many thanks for your kind letter and enclosed newspaper article. Your courtesy speaks highly of our press.
 I note you remarks on George's promotion and your wishes for his success in his career are much appreciated by myself and family.
 The boy himself has been football mad from when he could toddle and if keenness means anything he has that, and we hope he performs with credit as well as distinction on the playing field.
 Once again many thanks and best wishes to you in your own field, and may success attend you."

 The letter was obviously in response to an article that Reg Drury, who was at the start of a very distinguished career in football journalism, had published following Gerge Best's first appearance for Manchester United on 14 September 1963 against West Bromwich Albion.

Reg Drury was sadly killed by a motor car, aged 73, in 2003 and "Dickie" Best died in 2008.

George Best, an enormous talent that should be celebrated.