Tribute unveiled to World Cup hero

7:17pm Wednesday 12th March 2008

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A striking portrait of Blackpool football legend Alan Ball has been unveiled by his two children at Bloomfield Road.

The World Cup winning midfielder began his illustrious career with Blackpool and after his sudden death last April, the Blackpool Supporters Association organised a lasting tribute to the player.

The picture was fittingly created by Blackpool fan Scott Rimmer, 22, who captured the teenage Ball at the beginning of his career with the Tangerines.

Ball's children and sister, Keeley, Jimmy and Carol, were joined at the unveiling by Lawrie McMenemy, who managed him during his time at Southampton, the opposition team on Saturday.

Glenn Bowley, of Blackpool Supporters Association, said: "We waited until the Southampton game because they are another club where he is a legend.

"We think it is a fitting tribute to one of our greatest players."