Sir Bob back in Sunderland for two book signing events to raise money for Foundation of Light
“It’s always great to see the Sunderland people - it’s a special place”
Former Sunderland AFC chairman Sir Bob Murray said he hopes the launch of an updated version of his autobiography, I'd Do It All Again, can raise vital funds for the Foundation of Light ahead of two launch events in the city tomorrow.
Sir Bob, who turned 80 this year, was chairman of the club for 20 years and was the driving force behind the building of the Stadium of Light and has left a lasting legacy in the city with the creation of the club’s official charity the Foundation of Light and its home, the Beacon of Light.
Sir Bob released the original book three years ago. All proceeds will once again go to the Foundation, with the previous book raising in excess of £125,000.
Speaking to the Echo, Sir Bob said: “The first book was really successful and raised a six figure sum for the Foundation. The original book was hardback which meant it could only be sold by a limited number of publishers.
“The paperback version allows the book to be sold by many more outlets such as Amazon which will hopefully allow us to raise more money for the Foundation.
“There’s so much that has happened both in football and the club in the last three years that I thought it needed an additional chapter.”
The new epilogue gives Sir Bob's take on Sunderland's return to the Premier League, European football and what lies ahead for the Stadium of Light, as well as wider football issues such as financial fair play the and Manchester City case.
Sir Bob added: “The Foundation needs financial support more than ever as so many people are struggling with the cost of living. I’m immensely proud of our people at the Foundation and the work they do.”
The new version officially launches on November 5 when Bob will be back in the city for two special signing events and to attend the Black Cats second home Europa game against Dinamo Zagreb at the Stadium of Light.
Sir Bob will be at Waterstones in The Bridges from 12.30pm, followed by the Fans Museum from 4.30pm.
He said: “It’s always great to see the Sunderland people - it’s a special place.”