Tobermore-born soccer legend Harry Gregg to be honoured

Presseye Northern Ireland - 15th May 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-William Cherry/Presseye

Harry Gregg Testimonial - Irish League XI v Manchester United

Manchester United legend Harry Gregg before Tuesday nights Testimonial between Irish League XI v Manchester United at Windsor Park. — Presseye Northern Ireland - 15th May 2012 Mandatory Credit - Photo-William Cherry/Presseye Harry Gregg Testimonial - Irish League XI v Manchester United Manchester United legend Harry Gregg before Tuesday nights Testimonial between Irish League XI v Manchester United at Windsor Park.

Leading local figures from sport and politics are due to attend the event at Ulster University in Coleraine tonight.

Coleraine FC Academy’s community charity will now be renamed the Harry Gregg Foundation.

It currently facilitates weekly programmes for more than 4000 people of all ages, backgrounds and ability.

The aim of the foundation is to encourage young people’s participation in football and other health, lifestyle, educational, heritage and social inclusion activities.

Mr Gregg, survived the 1958 Munich air disaster and was praised for staying with the burning plane to help passengers to safety.

Former Mid-Ulster MP and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness said: “Harry Gregg is a sporting legend. As a proud Manchester United fan I have a special affinity for Harry as a former goalkeeper at the Club.

“The first time I met Harry I told him he was one of my sporting heroes. I was honoured to attend his first testimonial match at Windsor Park in May 2012.

“The Harry Gregg Foundation will create opportunities for many young people to get involved in football. Through this foundation future generations can take real steps to make their dream a reality.”