Famous faces gather for Best memorial
Best’s friends and family were joined by Alex Ferguson and the Manchester United squad as they paid tribute to the city’s adopted son.
Other celebrity fans included actor James Nesbitt, singer Russell Watson and former Scottish international, Manchester United star and football commentator Denis Law.
Best’s ex-wife Alex was in the congregation, along with members of the public who won a ticket in a public ballot to attend the service.
The former Manchester United and Northern Ireland star died, aged 59, of multiple organ failure on November 25 last year at Cromwell Hospital in west London, following years of alcohol abuse.
Actor and Man Utd fan James Nesbitt led the service for George Best, expressing his “honour” at being invited to do so.
He said his “hero” had managed to bridge the divide in a troubled Northern Ireland and was something “wonderful” that came out of the country.
George’s son Calum arrived at the service 20 minutes late, sitting at the back of the cathedral quietly until he was brought forward to sit with the rest of the family.
Asked afterwards why he was late, he said: “It’s my dad’s memorial, I’ll be late if I want.”
Opera singer Russell Watson sang two songs, You Raise Me Up, which was sung at George’s funeral, and You Are So Beautiful.
Ferguson, the current Manchester United manager, said: “His legacy is left to young people. George Best had a lot of courage, both physical and mental. George was not afraid to show that courage and his talent. Any young person who watched George must remember that. If you have talent, show it.”
Jane Busby, granddaughter of legendary United manager Matt Busby, gave a reading during the service, and former Leeds United player Eddie Gray said a few words about his friend.
He said he thought God had been “a bit unfair” to other footballers because he gave George everything.
The Bishop of Manchester, Rt Rev Nigel McCulloch, read a statement from George Best’s family which was written by his father, Dickie.
It said: “We will remain forever grateful to all those who have helped us get through the last few difficult months. George said he wanted people to remember him for his football and that is what we are doing today in Manchester.”
After the service, Denis Law said the saddest thing about the day was the fact Best was not there himself.
Best’s sister Barbara McNarry said she had found the service very moving and had tears in her eyes.
After the service George Best’s son Calum said: “It was very fitting to have a service here in Manchester. It is part of my dad’s legacy.”
About 1,000 people packed into Manchester Cathedral for the hour-long service, while hundreds more gathered outside hoping to catch a glimpse of the Best family and past and present players.
One fan said: “I’m really glad they did something here for the people of Manchester. George Best was our hero. There were Manchester United and Manchester City fans here today. That just shows George Best’s ability to bring people together.”
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