Former England Captain Helps Kick-Off Testimonial Events

’s ‘An Evening With Bryan Robson’ on Wednesday in Port Vale’s Valiant Suite.Mark GrewOver 200 people attended 

Former England and Manchester United captain Robson was the guest of honour at the dinner as Grew’s friends, family and former teammates kicked-off his testimonial celebrations.

, chairman Norman Smurthwaite and various local celebrities were also in attendance.Rob PageCurrent Vale manager

Signed Port Vale, Stoke City, West Bromwich Albion, Wolverhampton Wanderers and LA Galaxy shirts were auctioned off to raise money for charity.

: “You don’t realise how many friends you have got until you start doing something like this.port-vale.co.ukAn elated Mark Grew told

“They seemed to come out of the woodwork and it’s tremendous and great to get my mum and dad here. My dad has not been very well the last few months so to see him here tonight is brilliant for me.”

Vale’s goalkeeping coach was also delighted to have former teammate Robson at the dinner, especially because of the ex-England skipper’s busy schedule.

He added: “I started my career with Bryan back in 1975-76 so we go back a long time and it’s lovely for him to come back and support me.

“He’s been to Australia and he came back yesterday and he’s come here tonight so I really thank him for that.”

Robson himself said of the event: “I have really enjoyed it. The people when I have been to Port Vale before have always been really friendly, the hospitality has been good.

“Hopefully everybody has had a good night. I’ve really enjoyed it, it’s great to see Mark after all these years again and he thoroughly deserves it.

“When you have been 25 years at a football club, you deserve evenings like this.”