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23/05/2019
George Best Statue Unveiled In Belfast
Yesterday a life size bronze statue of football legend George Best was unveiled in Belfast on what would have been his 73rd birthday, 22 May.
Created by Belfast sculptor Tony Currie and funded by fans through public donations, it captures the iconic player's famed movement and balance as he dribbles with the ball.
The statue was officially gifted to Belfast City Council and will be on permanent display outside Olympia Leisure Centre at the main entrance to the National Stadium at Windsor Park.
Accepting the statue on behalf of Council at an official unveiling ceremony, Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Peter McReynolds, said: "I'm delighted to accept ownership of this memorial to George Best, one of Belfast's most well-known sports stars and a footballer who is considered by many to be one of the game's all-time greats.
"We are delighted to have worked closely with the Best family, Lecale Bronze, the Irish Football Association and the other parties who have come together to help make this happen. Given that George's talents made him one of the country's best known sports stars, this statue will undoubtedly be a draw for visitors and tourists alike. Its location beside popular sport and leisure facilities and the main entrance to the National Stadium at Windsor Park will hopefully inspire future generations of young footballers to follow their dreams."
Norman and Barbara McNarry, George's younger sister, attended the unveiling. They later commented that the "amazing tribute" to George "is very special and one which will live on for many generations".
"In July 1961, the road from Belfast took George to far off places and glittering heights. In December 2005, that road brought him back to Northern Ireland where tens of thousands lined the streets to say farewell.
"Today that road has finally brought our Belfast Boy home forever to the city, to the people and to the family who love him most of all."
Artist Tony Currie from art group Lecale Bronze added: "I would like to thank all fans for their donations to the project via our crowd funding appeal. They have hopefully enabled me to fulfil George's wish to be 'remembered for the football'.
"In completing this project we have always recognised that George faced difficulties in his life and that these were at times immense for both himself and those close to him.
"I would therefore like to record our thanks to Barbara and Norman for buying into our vision and supporting us every step of the way. I would also like to thank Belfast City Council for helping us manage this project throughout, and the Irish Football Association for all the help that they have given."
Created by Belfast sculptor Tony Currie and funded by fans through public donations, it captures the iconic player's famed movement and balance as he dribbles with the ball.
The statue was officially gifted to Belfast City Council and will be on permanent display outside Olympia Leisure Centre at the main entrance to the National Stadium at Windsor Park.
Accepting the statue on behalf of Council at an official unveiling ceremony, Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Peter McReynolds, said: "I'm delighted to accept ownership of this memorial to George Best, one of Belfast's most well-known sports stars and a footballer who is considered by many to be one of the game's all-time greats.
"We are delighted to have worked closely with the Best family, Lecale Bronze, the Irish Football Association and the other parties who have come together to help make this happen. Given that George's talents made him one of the country's best known sports stars, this statue will undoubtedly be a draw for visitors and tourists alike. Its location beside popular sport and leisure facilities and the main entrance to the National Stadium at Windsor Park will hopefully inspire future generations of young footballers to follow their dreams."
Norman and Barbara McNarry, George's younger sister, attended the unveiling. They later commented that the "amazing tribute" to George "is very special and one which will live on for many generations".
"In July 1961, the road from Belfast took George to far off places and glittering heights. In December 2005, that road brought him back to Northern Ireland where tens of thousands lined the streets to say farewell.
"Today that road has finally brought our Belfast Boy home forever to the city, to the people and to the family who love him most of all."
Artist Tony Currie from art group Lecale Bronze added: "I would like to thank all fans for their donations to the project via our crowd funding appeal. They have hopefully enabled me to fulfil George's wish to be 'remembered for the football'.
"In completing this project we have always recognised that George faced difficulties in his life and that these were at times immense for both himself and those close to him.
"I would therefore like to record our thanks to Barbara and Norman for buying into our vision and supporting us every step of the way. I would also like to thank Belfast City Council for helping us manage this project throughout, and the Irish Football Association for all the help that they have given."
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17 December 2014
Flight Diverted After Engine Fire
A Flybe flight from Glasgow to George Best Belfast City Airport was diverted to Belfast International after one of its engines caught fire. An emergency was declared at the airport as the plane was diverted, with fire crews and ambulances sent to the runway. It is understood that the plane was able to land.
Flight Diverted After Engine Fire
A Flybe flight from Glasgow to George Best Belfast City Airport was diverted to Belfast International after one of its engines caught fire. An emergency was declared at the airport as the plane was diverted, with fire crews and ambulances sent to the runway. It is understood that the plane was able to land.
29 January 2008
Best Statue 'Saved' By Private Developer
While public subscription failed to realise enough cash, the legendary NI player George Best is still set to be properly commemorated thanks to a private contribution.
Best Statue 'Saved' By Private Developer
While public subscription failed to realise enough cash, the legendary NI player George Best is still set to be properly commemorated thanks to a private contribution.
20 July 2021
Three New Ryanair Destinations Added At George Best Belfast City Airport
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Three New Ryanair Destinations Added At George Best Belfast City Airport
Ryanair have announced three new flights from George Best Belfast City Airport, servicing Ibiza, Valencia and Milan.
19 February 2014
New £300,000 Lounge Unveiled At George Best Belfast City Airport
British Airways has unveiled its new £300,000 lounge at George Best Belfast City Airport.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
