Pictured here from left: Margaret Byrne, Sunderland AFC CEO, Jimmy Montgomery, Nelson Mandela Foundation CEO Sello Hatang and Gary Hutchinson, SAFC Commercial Director
On 1 November, 2013 Sunderland Football Club (SAFC) celebrated a landmark birthday of one of its most famous sons, with a special tribute evening held at the Stadium of Light.
Jimmy Montgomery, 1973 hero and Club Ambassador, turned 70 in October and SAFC recognised this milestone with a "This Is Your Life"-style extravaganza at the Stadium of Light on 1 November, 2013.
A host of former teammates and footballing legends, including FA Cup-winning heroes Dennis Tueart and Dick Malone, paid tribute to Jimmy in an emotional evening, capped off by the announcement that the stadium’s main Banqueting Suite is to be re-named The Montgomery Suite.
Sunderland AFC Chairman Ellis Short said: “When you consider the heroes of SAFC, Jim Montgomery is right at the peak. As our Club Ambassador, Monty’s place in Sunderland folklore is thoroughly merited and so it is fitting that the club mark his recent 70th birthday.”
Chief Executive of the Nelson Mandela Foundation Sello Hatang speaks to guests about the good work done by the Foundation
The club’s Commercial Director, Gary Hutchinson, added: “Jimmy is a hugely important part of our Sunderland family. He is loved by fans, young and old, which is very evident on match days here at the stadium where he is always the centre of attention. We are delighted to rename the Banqueting Suite in his honour.”
Jimmy Montgomery commented: “I’m an emotional man and I’m glad I’ve been able to keep myself together. It was a lovely surprise and a great evening with my family and friends and the football club that I love.”
Jimmy holds the record for the most appearances for Sunderland, a staggering 627, and sealed his place in football history with his double-save in the 1973 FA Cup final, which saw Bob Stokoe’s side defeat Leeds United 1-0. The save was widely recognised as the best ever seen at Wembley.
He was made official Club Ambassador two seasons ago, a role which sees him represent SAFC across the world and also closer to home at the Stadium of Light, where he welcomes guests in the stadium’s hospitality suites and lounges at every home game. As a stalwart of the SAFC Former Players Association, Jimmy hosts a table in the stadium’s main hospitality suite – now known as The Montgomery Suite – entertaining customers and special guests on match days.
Proceeds from the evening were donated to the Nelson Mandela Foundation, which the club partnered with earlier this year. Chief Executive of the charity Sello Hatang attended the evening and spoke to guests about the good work done by the Nelson Mandela Foundation.