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Prime Minister Gordon Brown |
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| Sir Tom Finney at the exhibition launch |
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Prime Minister leads tributes to 'Sir Tom'
Prime Minister Gordon Brown led the tributes to Sir Tom Finney for the opening of the Museum’s exhibition , Local Hero, Football Legend: Sir Tom Finney, He sent a personal message which was read out at the opening: “Dear Sir Tom,
I wanted to take this opportunity to send a message of congratulations as you celebrate the achievements of your sporting life. You have been a great inspiration to many people over many years; a fantastic sportsman and a gentleman both on and off the field. You have even led the way in ensuring you gained an apprenticeship for future life……. I hope you enjoy your evening with friends and family who also share your passion for football".
Sports Minister Gerry Sutcliffe sent his own tribute: “I am very sorry that diary commitments mean that I cannot be with you tonight. I am absolutely delighted that the National Football Museum is honouring Sir Tom in this way. He is one of the all time greats of our game and also a fantastic supporter of the Museum. My very best wishes to Sir Tom and I hope you all have a very enjoyable evening.”
Mark Hendrick, MP for Preston, in a letter to Sir Tom, said “Dear Sir Tom,
It is with great regret that I cannot be with you tonight to honour your magnificent and remarkable career in football and your tremendous contribution to public life in Preston……..
I congratulate you on a lifetime of good service to the people of our City; both for the tremendous pleasure you have given to people throughout your distinguished career in football; and also for the thousands of hours of your time that you have given to extraordinary folk here in Preston supporting worthy causes and bringing happiness to so many people”.