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munich58.co.ukIn memory of those who died in the munich air crash in February 1958 |
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munich58.co.ukIn memory of those who died in the munich air crash in February 1958 |
February 2007
Manchester United have unveiled plans for a permanent memorial to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Munich air disaster next year.
For the Old Trafford faithful, February 6th 1958 will always be remembered as the darkest day in the club's history, when the Busby Babes were decimated trying to fly back from their European Cup tie in Belgrade.
Icy conditions affected the take off after refuelling in Germany and eight players, Geoff Bent, Roger Byrne, Eddie Colman, Mark Jones, David Pegg, Tommy Taylor, Liam Whelan and Duncan Edwards lost their lives along with 15 other passengers.
Tributes are paid to the fallen each year and there is a clock and plaque already commemorating the events at Old Trafford, but the 50th anniversary has prompted club chief executive David Gill to reveal new plans for people to be able to pay their respects.
"The Munich air disaster is so much a part of the very fabric of Manchester United," said Gill.
"Everyone who works at the club and who follows the club knows the significance of this terrible tragedy and the impact it has had upon the history of United.
"Our job is to ensure that such a major milestone, as the 50th anniversary undoubtedly is, captures the importance of the event.
"We owe it to our young fans to keep fresh the memory of those who lost their lives in service to the club.
"It is right that this tribute will be both significant and easily accessible to all who visit the ground."
The announcement follows the club's decision to also honour legendary trio Denis Law, George Best and Bobby Charlton with a statue at the stadium.