The story of a Sunderland hero and the locals who made sure he was honoured forever.placeholder image
The story of a Sunderland hero and the locals who made sure he was honoured forever. | se

When Sunderland showed its love for Bob Stokoe with a campaign for a statue 20 years ago

Fans, businesses and former players all joined in

He was the Messiah - and 20 years ago, the people of Sunderland honoured him in style.

Bob Stokoe was the legendary manager who led SAFC to FA Cup glory in 1973. Wearside mourned his passing in 2004 and then it came together in an incredible way.

An appeal was launched to build a Statue for Stokoe and it gathered momentum with fans, businesses and former players all joining in. It finally paid off with the statue being unveiled 20 years ago this month.

Have a look through our Echo picture tribute for a reminder of a remarkable campaign.

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