gordon banks

Today, the city of Stoke on Trent stands united and together as the funeral for late great Gordon Banks OBE takes place at the Stoke Minster later this afternoon.

The former Port Vale coach and 1966 World Cup winner died aged 81 on 12th February having been ill for a number of weeks.

Gordon was a Stoke City FC legend where he made 194 appearances for the club and was named Fifa goalkeeper of the year six times, earning 73 caps for England.

Port Vale Football Advisor John Rudge and wife Dell Rudge will be in attendance at the Stoke Minster this afternoon representing the club.

Mark Porter will also be representing the Port Vale Supporters Club at the funeral whilst Vale Club Historian, Phil Sherwin, will be representing the England Supporters Club.

Stoke City have confirmed the funeral cortège will leave the Bet 365 Stadium at 12.15pm and set off on a route around the city before arriving at Stoke Minster for the start of the funeral service at 1.30pm.

From everyone at Port Vale Football Club, we send our thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of the wonderful Gordon Banks OBE and to everyone at Stoke City Football Club, as we say goodbye to a footballing legend.

Rest in Peace, Gordon Banks.