Supporters of The Christie enjoyed a rare evening with Manchester United legend Nobby Stiles at Old Trafford for a celebratory sportman's dinner.

World cup hero Nobby was a special guest speaker at the event where he entertained an audience of individuals and businesses from across the North-West in recognition of Manchester United Football Club. Guests were given the low-down on Nobby's tales of days gone by at the club where he spent 11 years. The audience were delighted to hear Nobby speak fondly of George Best, Alan Ball and Bobby Charlton.

Nobby, 70, won two league titles and a European Cup during his career with Manchester United. After England won the World Cup in 1966, Nobby's celebratory post-match parade with the cup and his false teeth has gone down in history.

Earlier in the day, some of the guests had the unique opportunity to play a match on the pitch at the Theatre of Dreams. An auction of exclusive Manchester Utd, art and celebrity memorabilia was also held, with one lucky winner managing to bag a limited edition Manchester United Opus, which would normally sell at £3,000.

Charity backers also had the chance to hear from ex-Christie patient Andy Smith, comedian John Stiles, Nobby's son, and Chairman of The Christie charity, Lord Keith Bradley.

Lord Keith Bradley, Chairman of The Christie charity said:

"It was an honour to hear from the 1966 World Cup hero, Nobby Stiles MBE, and also from one of our young patients, Andy Smith. The Manchester United Foundation has been supporting us for several years and it is a partnership that we are hugely grateful for. Our Young Oncology Unit treats over a hundred young cancer patients a year. As well as delivering world-class treatment, the unit is focused on making our patients' experience more bearable, by providing an informal homely environment with extra support, such as music therapy. The importance of this unit is almost indescribable yet it is one of the many areas in the Trust in need of external funding. Evenings such as this give us the opportunity to explain what we are about as cancer specialists and highlight how people can get involved. On behalf of The Christie charity, I'd like to thank Manchester United and all of our dedicated supporters." 

Andy Smith, a former patient at The Christie, who was diagnosed with testicular cancer, shared his experiences with guest at the event.  He said:

"Having been a patient at The Christie, I've seen the wonderful work from the staff and their focus is always on the patient. The importance of cutting edge treatment, a smiling nurse and true expertise is hard to explain to people that haven't faced a diagnosis themselves, but you literally walk into The Christie doors and you feel safe.  It's a special place I am now determined to support. 

"As a Red, I was doubly excited to hear Nobby Stiles talk about his fascinating life at Old Trafford, it was definitely a once in a lifetime opportunity."

Nobby Stiles MBE, who entertained the guests, said:

"It was a real pleasure to speak at this event, particularly when it raises much needed funds for a worthy cause.  I was born and bred in Manchester, so I've always known of the fantastic care, education and research that goes on at The Christie.  Hearing first hand from the patients about their experience was pretty moving and brought home why we were all there on the night."

Meet the news team