Legendary Black Cats boss Peter Reid has cause for triple celebration on return to Sunderland

“It may be the 30 year anniversary, but it still feels as fresh and almost touchable in my memory,” says former Black Cat boss Peter Reid as he prepares to return to Sunderland.

The local hero will have cause for a triple celebration when he returns to Sunderland on Saturday, June 6 for a special evening with supporters at the Roker Hotel.

The event will serve as Sunderland celebration ahead of Reid’s 70th birthday on June 20, bringing supporters together to reflect on a defining rebirth period in his career and in the history of Sunderland AFC.

As, alongside his upcoming birthday, Reid is also marking 30 years since Sunderland’s Division One title triumph, as well as his Manager of the Year award in 1996, voted for by his fellow managers, completing a remarkable trio of milestones from one unforgettable era.

It was exactly 30 years ago on April 29th, 1996, when Sunderland secured the Division One title at Roker Park following a 0–0 draw with West Bromwich Albion FC, sparking unforgettable scenes as players, staff and supporters celebrated together, parading the trophy around Roker Park in scenes of joy and emotion across the ground.

Reid said:“So many fans will instantly recall where they were that Saturday day and night — the place was truly rocking with joy and celebration.”

Reid recalled the moment with deep emotion:“It may be the 30 year anniversary, but it still feels as fresh and almost touchable in my memory.

“I remember fans in tears, my players and staff in tears — and my great pal and assistant Sacko (Bobby Saxton) breaking down through the sheer emotion of it all. We painted the town red and white that night, and the celebrations went on well beyond that Saturday evening.

“It was truly unforgettable. Myself and my captain Kevin Ball were the last to make an entrance on the pitch as we paraded the cup around Roker. The noise was like nothing I’d heard before.”

The promotion-winning season is widely regarded as one of the most significant turnarounds in the club’s modern history, with Reid transforming fortunes after arriving at a difficult period for the club.

He said: “Thirty years ago was a hugely significant time. The fire was back in the club — it was a miraculous turnaround from where we were when I arrived. We were on the brink of relegation when I arrived but twelve months on and the scene had totally changed.Sunderland simply bonded, and special lifetime memories were made.”

Reid says the Roker Hotel event on June 6 will give him the chance to relive those moments with supporters who shared them.

“People know I’m never shy of a decent party — and I’m sure we’ll have a memorable night. It’s a great way to start the celebrations just ahead of my 70th birthday a touch later, and I can’t wait to be with those fantastic fans.

“So many of my best memories have been shared with Sunderland supporters, and I know that night in April ’96 is something they’ll never forget. It will be so good to relive it all together.”

The evening promises a nostalgic look back at one of the club’s most iconic eras, featuring stories, reflections and behind-the-scenes memories from inside the dressing room.

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