MUNICH AIR DISASTER 60TH ANNIVERSARY REMEMBERED AT OLD TRAFFORD

Ironically the weather today seemed to echo the events of that fateful day as snow started to fall on the approach to Old Trafford.

Many supporters gathered outside the Munich Memorial Plaque to lay wreaths, scarves, photographs, football shirts and even an old-style football in memory of their fallen heroes.

United had opened the East Stand which I still call the Scoreboard End for fans to attend the service which was led by club’s chaplain, the Rev John Boyers.

The Manchester United Foundation Choir, sang, "I watch The Sunrise" as the players past and present were warmly welcomed by the crowd as they made their way to their seats.

Executive director Michael Edelson and Ferguson gave short readings before the Roll of Honour were solemnly read out by John Boyers, followed by a minutes silence which was impeccably held. 

An exceptionally poignant moment,  was looking across at the crash survivors, Harry Gregg and Sir Bobby Charlton it was sad to see the sorrow on their faces, whilst around me, grown men openly wept.

Salford's own Pete Martin sang the Manchester United anthem, The Flowers of Manchester and you could have heard a pin drop such was the silence around the stadium.

Wreaths were laid by Michael Carrick and Jose Mourhino as the brass band played, Abide With Me, however, my gaze was drawn to Gregg and Charlton, both very dignified men and great servants to the club' God knows how they held it together under the circumstances.

The players left the ground to rapturous applause with players waving their appreciation to the crowd, the highlight for me was seeing Sir Alex Ferguson punching the air with clenched fists.

All in all a sad day but a journey each United fan should try and make, it really is an emotional day which shows the love that people still have for the beautiful boys who perished 60 years ago.

God BlessThe Busby Babes.