THE LAST BUSBY BABE - SAMMY MCILROY WOWS CHARITY AUDIENCE IN IRLAM

Last night Carl and I ventured into Irlam, more specifically The Club House at Boysnope Wharf to see Manchester United legend Sammy McIlroy talking about his career at a charity bash for CLAPA (Cleft Lip and Palate Association).

We were the guests of Bill McLoughlin the ace photographer and Editor of The Local Mag and to be honest Carl and I had never attended a Sportsman Dinner so we were a tad apprehensive, at to what we would find.

We were met by Bill who sat us at table eight... more about that lucky table later... and we had a drink and dined on steak, chips and peas as we awaited the show to begin.

Sammy McIlroy stood up and told us some hilarious if not libellous stories about his career, he didn't hold back when talking about Ron Atkinson the United manager who moved Sammy on to Stoke City in 1982 for £350,000, Sammy wanted to finish his career at United and referred to Atkinson as, "big, fat Ron" amongst other things!

We heard tales of Sir Matt Busby and what an influence he was on the apprentice footballer, how George Best bought him a bottle of champagne for scoring on his debut against Manchester City and to his amazement it was still full when he handed it over, tales of World Cup 1982 when Northern Ireland beat Spain, he was the Captain, as they celebrated their win in a hotel local journalists placed empty bottles of beer and wine and their table, then took a photograph.

This was shown in the papers next day with a headline saying, "Spain beat by drunkards", he showed the paper to team mate Norman Whiteside who said, "that's rubbish we drank much more than that!" and when asked about the forthcoming FA Cup Final he showed his colours, Red! we know who Sammy will be cheering for once a Red always a Red.

Comedy was provided by, Big Lou Jones, proper old school, no excuses, near to the knuckle, laugh out comedy which had the audience in stitches, well crafted in the art of the one line killer put downs, the audience loved him... and he admitted supporting Everton!

Next up was the charity auction in which donated football items were auctioned off to the highest bidder, mainly signed Manchester United memorabilia and two items of Manchester City, of which only one sold and that was purchased by Big Lou Jones!

Finally the raffle, before the meal each person at their table put £10 in an envelop with your name on it, there were 10 people on our table, table eight which is important as you will see.

The compere pulled out signed envelopes and of the 12 prizes, seven were won by people sat at table eight including Carl who won a paint balling, go karting, archery day out... I came home empty handed... yet again.

We had a great time and caps doffed to Bill McLaughlin for inviting us along and we were more than happy to help the charity CLAPA, and what a lovely club house it has to be said, our first ever visit.