A special evening to celebrate the life of Sir Bobby Robson brought stars from the world of sport and showbiz out to mark what would have been the former England and Newcastle manager's 80th birthday.
It was an event that Sir Bobby helped to plan himself, but one that he did not live to see.
Star-studded event to celebrate Sir Bobby Robson's life
The whole cast assembles for the celebration for Sir Bobby Robson Credit: Timm Cleasby / The Picture FoundryJoe McElderry performs at last night's event at The Sage, Gateshead Credit: Timm Cleasby / The Picture FoundryMark Knopfler takes to the stage at the celebration of Sir Bobby's life Credit: Timm Cleasby / The Picture FoundryAndre-Villas Boas joins Jim Rosenthal on stage Credit: Timm Cleasby / The Picture FoundryNewcastle United's Alan Pardew takes to the stage at the event Credit: Timm Cleasby / The Picture Foundry
Stars from the world of sport and showbiz were at The Sage in Gateshead last night to celebrate the life of Sir Bobby Robson. The fundraiser was held on what would have been the former England and Newcastle manager's 80th birthday. He was remembered through songs, interviews and speeches.
André Villas-Boas and Stuart Pearce were amongst hundreds who supported the event to raise money for The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and The Alan Shearer Foundation.
Celebrities turn out to celebrate Sir Bobby's life
Russell Watson and Joe McElderry Credit: ITV News
Russell Watson and Joe McElderry are just two of the acts on tonight's bill of entertainment to celebrate Sir Bobby Robson's life.
Russell Watson will be performing two of Sir Bobby's favourite, "Barcelona" and "Land of Hope and Glory", whilst Joe McElderry will sing anthem "Nessun Dorma" and "Don't Stop Believing."
"I'm sure he wouldn't mind a Wearsider joining in"
Peter Brewis, from Sunderland band Field Music, has spoken of his respect for Sir Bobby Robson - despite being born and raised as a Sunderland supporter,
Peter Brewis has paid tribute to Sir Bobby Robson Credit: Richard Gray/EMPICS Entertainment
“And yes, I am a Sunderland supporter - but Bobby did manage my boyhood heroes at one point..... Barcelona!
My first real memories of football were from the 86 world cup and from then on Bobby was a hero of mine. Even when he was making sure Newcastle was a better team than Sunderland that never changed!
It's really great to be asked to be asked to be involved in this - I'm sure he wouldn't mind a Wearsider joining in.”