Peter Reid hailed on emotional return to Roker for 70th birthday celebration | OneFootball

According to Sunderland Echo, legendary Sunderland manager Peter Reid returned to the city on Saturday, 6 June, for an emotional celebration at the Roker Hotel to launch his 70th birthday festivities.

Reid, who turns 70 on 20 June, was taken through his life and career by broadcaster Paul Goffy Gough in front of a packed room.

Kevin Phillips and Micky Gray led tributes, with Phillips calling Reid the biggest influence on his career. Chris Kamara spoke about their long friendship, and Tony Mowbray and Peter Shilton sent video messages.

The programme mixed laughter with poignancy, touching on Reid’s devotion to Everton and his bond with the late Bradley Lowery. He entered to the anthem Cheer Up Peter Reid as the audience rose and sang.

Reid said the night was an emotional rollercoaster and that the roar to that song will stay with him. He also spoke of a supporter who met his late wife during one of Reid’s hospital visits, thanked fans, and said he has enjoyed the club’s recent progress and attending games.

He visited former assistant Bobby Saxton, known as Sacko, as the pair reflected on guiding Sunderland from Roker Park to the Stadium of Light. Host Goffy rounded off the night by presenting a Sunderland-themed cake, champagne and a framed montage.

Source: Sunderland Echo