Morecambe v Everton (Jim bentley Testimonial Programme)

Morecambe

v

Everton

The Official Souvenir Matchday Programme

Saturday 14th July 2012 Kick off: 2.00pm The Globe Arena Price: £2.00

The

Jim Bentley Testimonial

A TRIBUTE MATCH FOR A MORECAMBE LEGEND Match Sponsor: INTERFREIGHT SHIPPING • Ball Sponsor: JESSOPS

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Jim Bentley Testimonial Matchday Programme

Introduction from Jim Bentley

A word from Jim Bentley to see that happen today is something of a dream come true and I would like to thank David Moyes and club secretary David Harrison who played such a part in organising the game for me along with a great friend of mine Simon Conning.

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OOD afternoon and a warm welcome to this afternoon’s game against Everton.

Can I kick off by saying that I am really grateful to the Board of Directors for allowing me to mark my 10 years at the club with a testimonial year which begins in earnest today with the best possible game for me against a team I have supported passionately since I was a boy.

I have always been a devout “Blue’’ ever since my dad played for them at the start of his career and I cannot really put into words how pleased I was when they agreed to bring a team here today to mark the occasion.

If you would have asked me years ago who I would have wanted as testimonial opponents, Everton would have been the choice so

David Moyes is one of my Everton heroes and it will be great to say I have shared a touchline with him after today and I am sure I can learn something from him this afternoon.

To have my sons Jack and Max as mascots as well, watched by the rest of my family, will make it all the more special, although I’m not totally sure who they will be supporting! When you play sport professionally there are always highs and lows and you need a good family around you and I would like to thank my wife Marie for everything she has done for me as well over the years because she has been a great support to me.

To make a testimonial year a success you have to have a good committee behind you and I would like to take this opportunity to thank my testimonial committee members Peter Howard, Darren Clifford, Mark Swindlehurst, Derek Quinn and Dave Freear as well as Terry Ainsworth for their

Morecambe v Everton 14th July 2012

support. There are a number of events being planned throughout the forthcoming season and if you can support them in any way I would again be extremely grateful.

There are plenty of other people I need to thank as well including all my players who have backed me superbly, Mark Dixon and his team at the club for all the help they have given me over the past couple of weeks and also Jody Davis who unfortunately leaves the club today for a new job and will be sorely missed.

Most of all I would like to thank the fans of this club who have shown me so much support since the first day I arrived. I absolutely adore this football club and I cannot thank everyone who is here today enough for their support.

Getting to grips with Sol Campbell

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Matc h Sp o n so r : In t e r fre igh t Sh ipping

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ODAy’S game is sponsored by Interfreight Shipping, which is an independent international freight forwarder offering the full range of services associated with international freight logistics and transportation.

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Best wishes to Jim in his well deserved testimonial year.

Here's to the next 19 years!

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Jim Bentley Testimonial Matchday Programme

Cha ir ma n’s messa ge

A message from the Chairman

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very warm welcome to the directors, management, players and supporters of Everton FC for today’s testimonial match for Jim Bentley. As soon as Jim’s testimonial was approved there was no doubt in his mind that the team he wished to come to the Globe Arena was his beloved Everton FC.

I first met Jim at Christie Park when he was deciding whether or not to join Morecambe FC. I spent some time with Jim talking about his ambitions, football in general and more specifically Morecambe FC. What really impressed me was the way in which he conducted himself which was very professional and very focused. It was also the first time that I had seen a prospective new player turn up in a suit, collar and tie. I have always found in business that first impressions are nearly always right. My first impressions of Jim were hugely positive and I felt that he would be a real asset for the club. How right

Chairman, Peter McGuigan

this has proved to be.

During his time with the club he has been a magnificent leader both on the field as Captain of the club, and off the field as Manager of the club. I have said on numerous occasions that the most important person at a football club is the manager and in a very short time Jim really has put his stamp on Morecambe Football Club.

As a player he really was Captain Marvellous and gained everyone’s respect, not just at Morecambe FC but in the football world generally. Jim does a lot of work outside of the football club either promoting the club or being actively involved in

Morecambe v Everton 14th July 2012

many aspects of working in the community, which is so important to a club such as Morecambe.

As I write these notes it would appear that the attendance at today’s match will reflect the popularity of Jim Bentley.

I am sure that Jim’s family will be very proud of his achievements. On behalf of the Board I am delighted that today we recognise the fantastic contribution Jim has made during his time at Morecambe Football Club and we wish him and his family every success in the future.

Enjoy the game!

Peter McGuigan Chairman

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Prev i o u s m a t c h e s b e t we e n t h e t w o t e am s

We’ve Met Before

by Lawrence Bland and Derek Quinn

Morecambe v Everton

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ID you know that Howard Kendall’s first game in charge as Everton manager came at Christie Park?

Kendall brought a team to the resort for a pre-season friendly on 8th August 1981 at Christie Park. A crowd of 3,000 saw Everton win 3-0 with Kendall himself coming off the bench to score a goal.

On the bench that day were Kevin Ratcliffe and Graeme Sharp, who would go on to be two of the mainstays of his success at Goodison. The teams that day were: MORECAMBE: Byram, Woof, Thompson, Higgins, Milligan, Hartlebury, Chesters, K., Haslam, Betts, Bowie and Lancaster.

Subs Dobson, Chesters, P. and Nicholson.

EVERTON: Southall, Barton, Bailey, Ross, Higgins, Wright, Ainscow, Eastoe (2), Ferguson, Hartford and Thomas. Subs Lyons, McBride, Ratcliffe, Sharp and Kendall (1)

Morecambe played two friendly matches with Everton junior sides in the 1950s at Christie Park.

On Saturday 24th November 1956, we drew 1-1 with Everton ‘A’, att 800, Geoff Slack scoring.

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Howard Kendall, Everton’s most successful manager of all time.

On Saturday 3rd October 1959, we lost 1-6 to Everton ‘B’, att 1,200, Tony Fairclough scoring for the Shrimps. Brian Godfrey, who went on to be a Wales international player, scored five goals.

We played Everton Reserves in Round 2 of the Lancashire Senior Cup during 197374, on the way to the final, drawing 0-0 on 16th April, att 809 and winning the replay 3-1 on 1st May, att 1,322, John Bennett, Keith Galley and Malcolm Richmond scoring. Both games were at Christie Park.

one famous story being from former striker Tony Cottee who said he knew his days at Goodison were numbered when he was being marked

by Morecambe’s Dave Richardson, who happened to be his window cleaner!

We have never played at Goodison Park.

Morecambe Reserves used to play Everton ‘A’ regularly in the Lancashire League with

Kendall during his playing days.

Jim Bentley Testimonial Matchday Programme

Fa vourite Shrimp Moments

6 of the best

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im looks back over his time with the Shrimps and selects his six most memorable moments.

1. Beating Exeter at Wembley

The highlight of any player’s career is playing at Wembley and to be the captain of a winning side there made the day all the more special.

2. York City play-off victory

This was obviously a huge day for me and for the club as it took us to Wembley. My son Jack was the mascot and it was a thrilling game and the fact we hit back to win after going 1-0 down made it all the more special. But it was also an emotional day for me as it was the last time my dad saw me play.

3. Preston North End, Carling Cup win

This was a win that certainly saw people sit up and take notice of us. It was our first Carling Cup game and nobody gave us a chance. But we played really well and we won 2-1 with myself and Dave Artell scoring and it was one of the best wins I think I was ever involved in.

4. FA Cup win over Chester

I don’t know if I have ever mentioned it but I scored twice in this game – both volleys that would have won the Goal of the Season award. Games against Chester at that time always had a bit of an edge because we were close rivals and there was not a lot of love lost. It was a win that also helped us get a great tie against Ipswich.

Kissing the badge after the Wembley win

5. Beating Wolves at Molyneux After beating Preston we got another good draw and once again nobody gave us a chance. Wolves put out a decent side but again we played really well and produced the shock of the round I think when we beat them after extra time.

6. Morecambe 4, Crewe 3 Bentley celebrates scoring against Preston

Jim scores perhaps the best goal of his career in the FA Cup win over Chester.

Morecambe v Everton 14th July 2012

I was only supposed to choose five moments but how could I ignore this one? We were 3-1 down and had only 10 men with 10 minutes to go and we remarkably managed to turn the game around with Dave Artell winning it for us in injury time. It was one of those games that had everything and showed just why we all love football so much.

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A f ew w o rd s fro m p a st Manage rs

Former bosses pass on their best wishes

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HE two Morecambe managers Jim has served under have both passed on their best wishes for this afternoon.

Jim Harvey signed Bentley from Telford in 2002 and immediately made him his captain while Sammy McIlroy gave him an early managerial role with the Shrimps’ Reserves.

I can’t speak highly enough about him.

“Even in those days I could see that he was a potential manager and I wanted him to be my assistant but he said it was too early and wanted to concentrate on playing which I could understand.

Sammy shakes Jim’s hand.

like Jim deserve great moments like that and it is fitting that he will always be remembered as the man who captained the side into the Football League.

“He did help me though by taking some of the sessions and looking after With a number of “A couple of years ago I the players and clubs chasing Jim had to do one of the hardest he was a great when he announced things I have ever done and support for me. he wanted to leave tell Jim that he would no He is a great guy longer be my first choice and Telford, Harvey said and a manager’s Jim Harvey that I thought he would be he did all he could to dream and I hope the perfect choice to take his secure his services. he has a great day today.’’ first steps in management He said: “I told Jim that I would McIlroy also passed on with the Reserves. It may guarantee that he would play his best wishes, have come earlier in the Football League and I saying: “From the than Jim would was delighted to see that he minute I walked have wanted but eventually achieved that after into the door at he went about his we had got so close on a Morecambe I could business with the couple of occasions. see Jim was a born thoroughness that leader.

“As soon as I knew Jim was he does everything available I wanted him. We “All the players and did a great job. needed a big, bold defender looked up to him “It is great to see and a leader and Jim ticked on and off the pitch Sammy McIlroy him now as the first all the boxes. and he just seemed team manager and to inspire everyone “From the moment I met I naturally wish him the very around him. him I realised that he loved best. He is his own man and I the game and would inspire know no-one will work harder “He was the perfect captain others around him and that is at the role than Jim and I and I was so proud to see hope today is the success it exactly how things turned out. him lift the trophy at Wembley deserves to be.’’ after beating Exeter. Players He was superb for me and

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Jim Bentley Testimonial Matchday Programme

Good luck messages from Brian Horton & Steve Palmer

Brian Horton I F Brian Horton had got his own way then today’s game would not be happening.

Horton was managing Manchester City when he first came across a young Jim Bentley and has tracked his career since then.

He said: “Although he was only a junior at City I remember him because he was a model, young professional. He always listened to the advice he was given and did everything he could to be the best player he could.

“He could play centre half or up front and to be honest

I don’t think that helped him really “I know this is because the club Jim’s testimonial never really found but I am sure a his best position. few people will He was also at mention his dad the club at a time Jack. I played when it had some against him of the best young several times Brian Horton talent it had had for when I was a years with players midfielder for like Michael Brown and David Hednesford and there is no Morley and it was always doubt he was one of the best going to be difficult for him to non league strikers around break through. and someone who should definitely have played at a “I always liked him though higher level. and I did try to take him to Port Vale when I was “I have seen Jim quite a lot in manager there. Unfortunately the last few years at games the club was going through and I hope today he gets the support he deserves.” a hard time financially and

Steve Palmer

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ne of Jim’s team mates in his days at Telford was Steve Palmer, a popular figure at Bucks Head.

Speaking about his friendship with Bentley he said: “I played with Jim for five years when we were together at Telford and we certainly have some great memories.

“We joined at a similar time in 1997 and it would be fair to say the club was struggling a bit financially at that time. But over the next few years we

it didn’t come off and it was a shame because I knew he could do a job for me.

many ways. As well as being an excellent defender he got us organised on and off the pitch and we were a really tight unit.

got a pretty decent side together and Steve Palmer we had a bit of “We once said that if success. Jim was anyone from that team definitely one of the reasons was going to be a manager for that success because of it was Jim because he had his leadership qualities. the qualities needed for the “I remember the first time I role and I was not surprised saw him. He was huge for in the least when he took over his age and he could head at Morecambe. I always keep a ball further than I could an eye out for their results and kick it. He was only young it is one of the first fixtures I really at the time but he pretty look for every week. I really quickly showed that he was hope the Morecambe fans someone who was a born get right behind this afternoon captain and he was the one and help make his day a who brought us together in special one.’’

Morecambe v Everton 14th July 2012

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Wel co m e t o Eve r t o n Manager David Moyes

Moyes took charge at Goodison Park in 2002 and has transformed Everton into a side expected to finish in the top half of the Premier League every season. The loyal Glaswegian, David Moyes who was linked with Spurs in the summer, has done a fantastic job and is regarded as one of the brightest managers in the country.

Moyes began his playing career at Celtic at the tender age of 16, where he won a Championship medal. The sturdy centrehalf went on to feature for a number of clubs before ending his playing days at Preston North End in 1998.

Moyes then became the manager at Preston and guided them to promotion to Division One before leaving for Everton two years later.

He guided the Toffees to a seventh-place finish in his first full season and, apart from one season where they just avoided relegation, they have been in the top echelons of the league since and enjoyed a trip to Wembley for last season’s FA Cup semi-final and made it to the FA Cup final in 2009.

Goalkeeper Tim Howard

Howard arrived at Everton in the summer of 2006, on loan from Manchester United.

Beginning his career in his native USA, Tim moved to Manchester United in 2003 before switching to the Blues three years later. In 2007, Howard was rewarded with a permanent contract with Everton following a string of consistent performances that season.

Tim has also had success in the States, helping his national team reach the final of the Confederation Cup and was selected to

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be part of the USA’s 2010 World Cup squad, playing in all of America’s group matches, including against England.

Defenders Phil Neville

Phil arrived at Goodison Park in 2005, bringing a wealth of European and international knowledge with him. After spending over a decade at Manchester United, Neville turned his attention to Everton where he was virtually ever-present throughout his first season and provided consistent performances that helped the club achieve some key victories.

He has also had a very successful international career, being one of England’s most reliable performers.

John Heitinga

Dutch born John joined the Blues in 2009, arriving from Atletico Madrid. Despite being only 25 when he signed, Heitinga Phil Neville brought a wealth of experience with him, having played for Ajax as well as the Spanish giants. Heitinga can play at both his preferred central defensive role and at right-back, having fulfilled both positions successfully for his country. He also played a crucial role in getting his country to the World Cup Final in 2010. His first Everton goal was in a match against Birmingham in the 2010/11 season.

Sylvain Distin

Sylvain joined Everton from Portsmouth in 2009. The French defender brought a wealth of previous experience, both from the Premier League and from Europe. Sylvain’s first appearance in the English Premier League was with Manchester City, where he made 207 appearances. On arrival at Goodison, he

Jim Bentley Testimonial Matchday Programme

Welcome to Ever ton became a key part of the defence and has remained so ever since.

Tony Hibbert

Right back Hibbert has had an impressive life long Everton career, After graduating from the academy, Hibbert made his debut for the Blues against West Ham in 2001. Originally a midfield player, Hibbert now provides a boost to the Blues’ back four.

Despite injury setting him back at points in his 11 year career, Tony has proved to be an important part of the Hibbert Tony Everton team, providing excellent defensive qualities and the ability to make intelligent forward runs.

Shane Duffy

Centre back Shane moved from his Northern Ireland home to join Everton’s academy when he was just 16, but he has been rewarded for that sacrifice ever since. He quickly progressed into the Blues’ Under 18 team and has played internationally for Northern Ireland at different levels before switching to the Republic of Ireland in 2010. He has recently been on loan to Burnley and Scunthorpe.

Midfielders Tim Cahill

Sydney born Cahill joined the Blues at the beginning of the 2005 season, coming from Millwall, a move he described as a dream come true. Since beginning his professional career at the age of 14, Cahill has forged an impressive career in both English football and as an international player; representing Australia at the 2004 Olympics and the 2010 World Cup. He proved to be a lucrative Morecambe v Everton 14th July 2012

signing for the Blues, bagging seven goals before the end of 2007 and scored his 100th career goal in 2010.

Darron Gibson

Derry born Darron joined Everton in January 2012. The Irish international joined the Blues from Manchester united on a four and a half year deal. After joining United when he was 17, he made his debut in the League Cup the day after his 18th birthday. He has also played for the Republic of Ireland national team, scoring his first international goal against Wales in the Nations Cup in 2011.

Jack Rodwell

Southport born Jack made his debut when he was just 16, the youngest ever Blues player to play in Europe. That record was subsequently beaten but he continued to impress and made his under 18s debut when he was 14, later becoming the Everton under 18s captain. He made his Premier League debut in 2008 against Sunderland, before also playing in the last game of that season. Rodwell has also played in international games for England, first in November 2011 against Spain at Wembley, a match England won 1-0, and also against Sweden three days later.

Leon Osman

Jack Rodwell

Leon made his first start for Everton against Wolves in 2004, scoring his first goal for the club three minutes after. He became a first team regular in the 2004/05 season and was rewarded with a new five year contract. In 2006/05 he netted three goals. In the 2010/11 season, he headed a winning goal against Manchester City and there was speculation that he may be called up to play for England in the future.

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Welco me t o Eve r t o n Francisco Junior

Francisco joined Everton in February 2012. Born in Guinea West Africa, the young midfielder has been capped twice

by Portugal at under 21 level. He was on Manchester City’s books for a short while before transferring to the Blues.

Marouane Fellaini

Everton broke their transfer record to sign the Belgian midfielder from Standard Liege in 2008. The highly-rated player fared well in his first season scoring eight league goals in 30 appearances Marouane Fellaini and has grown in stature since then. Fellaini has endured something of a frustrating time with injuries but when fully fit is widely regarded as one of the best midfielders in the Premiership.

Forwards Steven Naismith

Steven moved to Everton from Rangers recently.

He was a Rangers fan as a boy and spent some time at the Ibrox club’s academy before joining Kilmarnock.

Steven Naismith He later moved to Rangers and won the Scottish Football Writers’ Young Player of the Year award. He made his full international debut against the Faroe Islands for Scotland.

He left Rangers with three Scottish Premier League titles, 2 Scottish League Cups and 1 Scottish Cup medal.

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Jose Baxter Jose was part of the Everton team that toured America and Switzerland, just two months after he left school. A player of immense talent, Baxter scored his first goal for the senior team when he equalised against Nottingham Forrest in a friendly match in 2008. Just seven days later, he became the youngest Everton player to start a game. Baxter has also captained the England under-17s at a tournament in Germany and has been tipped to play for the main national team.

Magaye Gueye Magaye joined Everton in 2010 from French club Strasbourg for an undisclosed fee. He Magaye Gueye initially broke through from Strasbourg's youth ranks into the first team in November 2008, having been in their academy from the age of 12 and is no stranger to the France national setup, featuring at Under-16, Under-19 and Under-21 level. He scored his first goal for Everton in a 2-1 win over Brisbane Roar.

Connor McAleny Connor joined Everton’s academy at the age of 11 and in 2008 was recruited as a full time scholar. He was in the under 18s squad and netted several goals that season, a role which increased the next season. He made his senior team debut against Arsenal in June 2011 as a late substitute.

By James Bellew

All Everton player images are courtesy of www.evertonfc.com

Jim Bentley Testimonial Matchday Programme

Neil Dewsnip

Recalling Jim’s schooldays...

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ne man to have an early impact on Jim Bentley’s career was his PE teacher Neil Dewsnip.

Neil looked after Jim during his days at New Heys Secondary School in Allerton before he left the teaching profession to work for today’s opponents Everton where he now heads their Academy.

Neil was quick to spot the potential of the talented young all round sportsman and says Jim’s ambition and determination was something that stood out.

Neil Dewsnip, Everton Academy Head Coach (image courtesy of www.evertonfc.com)

He said: “Jim was part of an excellent group of sporting talent and the school football team was full of youngsters who played for the likes of Everton, Liverpool and Tranmere.

certainly vocal and it was clear to all that he had real leadership qualities. The fact that he made a great career for himself in the game while others didn’t speaks volumes for his character.’’

“Jim wasn’t one of those lads however and I think it would be fair to say he was a late developer. He was

Jim was well known to the Dewsnip family as Neil’s wife Jayne also taught at the same school.

Morecambe v Everton 14th July 2012

Neil said: “Jayne remembers Jim as a polite pupil, never in trouble and keen to learn and it will be great for us both to catch up with him at the game.

“We have kept in touch since he left school and he is a lovely bloke who loves the game and if anyone has deserved success in the sport, it is Jim.’’

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A word f rom Ma rk Sw ind le h urst

The greatest player Morecambe has ever had...

W here does the time go? I seriously can’t believe that it is 10 years since Jim Bentley came to Morecambe!

I can’t believe it will be 10 years ago this December when we were delirious with Jim scores again! joy at beating the ‘bigger’ team Chester City in the FA Cup when Jim scored twice and we ended up knocking them out of the competition.

We really thought then that it didn’t get any better than that.

How times and expectations have changed and how far have we come since then?

Jim has been with us every step of the way and from the start he was a fans favourite.

Jim played the game how we all think we would play, with pride, passion and a real desire and hunger to win!

Jim was the natural choice to step into the Captain’s role after Drummy moved on and demanded the best and nothing less on the pitch from his team mates. His infectious enthusiasm and determination soon formed the heartbeat of the club and it was only fitting that Jim was

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the one to lift the trophy at Wembley that saw us fulfil our dream of League Football Not only was Jim a great leader on the pitch but also an ambassador for the club off the pitch.

As fans, we don’t get to see behind the scenes but I know that Jim has always worked hard to enhance the club’s reputation within the local community and gives his personal time to talk at schools, visit hospitals and undertake a host of other goodwill activities. He is an inspiration to our children and a fantastic role model.

fantastic club. It was destiny.

Thrust upon him possibly a season sooner than he had hoped for he has taken to it like the born leader of men that he is, learning along the way and taking the highs and lows as the same valuable experience. He once shared his philosophy of life with me that his Dad Jack Bentley had passed on to him, “Take pride in everything you do” is Jim’s personal mantra, and that he does.

I know I speak for many when I say that I am proud that he is the manager of our club and every success earned is a delight as it means as much to Jim as is does to the fans.

Jim is a true professional and we are lucky to have him.

Just as importantly, he always has time In my opinion he is to talk to the fans, the greatest player realising that he that Morecambe has is living out all our ever had. hopes and dreams. I I hope that in 10 have never ever see Mark Swindlehurst years from now we him walk past a fan can say that Jim is without stopping for the greatest manager that we a chat when engaged. He have ever had! cares passionately about this Thanks Jim! club, OUR CLUB! I have yet to meet a fan who didn’t think Jim was the natural, if not only, choice to become manager of our

Mark Swindlehurst

Match day announcer, Morecambe Player commentator and current Club Person of the Year.

Jim Bentley Testimonial Matchday Programme

A w o rd from t h e Testimonia l Committee Cha ir

A fitting tribute to a very special man...

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elcome to this afternoon’s testimonial match, the first of many fund raising events for Jim Bentley's Testimonial year.

I was honoured and delighted when Jim asked me to be Chairman of his testimonial committee and I have been joined by a very enthusiastic team, determined to make this a very successful year for one of the most popular characters ever to wear a Morecambe shirt.

He is the original Gentleman Jim who will go that extra mile to promote Morecambe Football Club. His dedication to his work as manager knows no bounds and the esteem in which he is held in Football circles is testimony to a very special man.

Throughout the season we will be holding a series of fundraisers which will involve all sections of supporters, with emphasis on family events. Details of all these

will be on the website as and when they are due to take place. We will be happy to receive any suggestions which can be put to myself, Mark Swindlehurst, Darren Clifford or our publicity and media man Derek Quinn.

future fund raising events.

Special thanks go to today’s We have a number of events Match Sponsor, Matt Mowat planned including a from Interfreight Sportsman’s Evening, Shipping and Ball a sponsored walk and Sponsors, Jessops a sports forum but if Estate Agents. We are you have any ideas also grateful to David Moyes and Everton please let us know. for providing today’s Peter Howard Jim deserves your opposition. support and I am sure Finally, thank you to you you will not let him down. the supporters for your Enjoy your day attendance today and we hope that you will be as generous in supporting the

Morecambe v Everton 14th July 2012

Peter Howard Testimonial Committee Chairman

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A w o rd fro m t h e C h ie f Exe cut ive

A true role model

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ELL, where did that 10 years go to? It only seems a short while ago that we announced a young, fresh faced, centre half had signed from Telford United. Since signing on the 21st May 2002, Jim has played a major role in Morecambe’s progress as player, captain, coach and now manager.

There are many memorable moments of Jim on the field over the years but the ones that spring to my mind are his goals against Chester City in the FA Cup 2nd Round, his goal against PNE in the Carling Cup victory at Deepdale (only our second game as a Football League Club), becoming the first Morecambe player to reach 100 Football League appearances for the club and of course lifting the Conference Play-off Trophy at Wembley Stadium. At the other end of the scale was his sending off at Ipswich Town’s Portman Road in the FA Cup third round tie (totally unjust as he was heading away from the goal he was defending!) and Jim’s dad, Jack, missing the Play-off Final through illness and then passing away so suddenly a few days later.

Jim has played a massive

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part in the life of this football club off the field as well.

Our Community Sports department (formally Football in the Community) plays a massive part in the locality and Jim has been very supportive of this over the years. This involves him putting himself out to make public appearances, coaching in schools and speaking at school events.

He is a great ambassador for the football club and has been a superb role model for any young pro who has joined us over the years.

After Sammy McIlroy left, Jim was obviously going to be a candidate for the vacant hot seat at the Globe Arena. We received many good quality applicants but after a debate around the boardroom table the chairman Peter McGuigan, myself and vicechairman Graham Hodgson sat with Jim for half a day and the job was done! Jim spoke enthusiastically and infectiously about the club, his plans, his thoughts on his assistant and backroom team, his football philosophy and his vision for the future, both for Morecambe Football Club and his personal ambitions.

Jim’s work ethic is superb.

From taking training during the week, going out scouting

Celebrating with the trophy

and watching games, and even on the coach going to and returning from away games it is always 100% effort. He and Kenny will always analyse the DVD of the game we have just played on the way home, make copious notes and have a plan in place for Monday morning when the boys are back in training. I keep saying if work rate and endeavour equal success in this game then Jim and Kenny will do ok.

Jim, on a personal level, thanks for the last 10 years, you have been a pleasure to work with both as a player and as the gaffer. I hope your dreams and ambitions come to fruition both professionally and as the family man you are. Have a great day today, put the red shirt on for one last time and enjoy the runout against your beloved Toffees.

Have a great testimonial year, you deserve it.

Rod Taylor

Chief Executive

Jim Bentley Testimonial Matchday Programme

T RUE

SH RI MPS

LEGEN D

Jim Bentley

Autograph here...

Morecambe v Everton 14th July 2012

17

Ken Mc Ke n n a a n d Ni c k Fe nt o n

When McKenna spoke his way into Everton folkore

M

ORECAMBE assistant boss Ken McKenna is another devout Evertonian looking forward to today’s game.

Unlike Jim, McKenna did manage to play against his heroes when he was in the Telford side that played at Goodison in the FA Cup several years ago.

But he wrote his way into Toffees’ folklore years later when boss of League of Wales champions TNS who were drawn to face Liverpool

in the Champions League.

With his tongue very firmly in his cheek McKenna made a quote that is now rated as one of the best ever by Everton fans.

When asked by a reporter about the Liverpool game, he said: "You couldn't write a story like this - a village team from Wales playing the European champions. I would have preferred to get someone a lit bit easier so we could still be in when the big clubs like

Ken McKenna

Everton come in in the third round."

The whole of Merseyside soon picked up the undertones of his comments and he has been a legend ever since.

Nick Fenton

O

NE person who loves Jim Bentley to bits is Nick Fenton’s mum.

The Shrimps’ popular central defender was a junior at Manchester City at the same time as Jim and he remembers the support he was given by the Shrimps’ boss.

Said Nick: “I was about three years younger than Jim and he really took me under his wing. We played at centre half together in the B team a few times and he really looked after me.

“In fact he looked after me a

18

a legend at Telford I have to admit that I am surprised he didn’t play in the league after lot in those days being released by City. and my mum He was always a really always loved him powerful defender who for it. She was could read the game really grateful that well and I am convinced this giant Liverpool Nick Fenton he could have played at lad was there to make sure I was OK and a higher level than he did.’’ she has always followed his career since then.’’

One person Jim would like to say hello to today is someone Nick said it was a surprise they call “Belgian Blue’’. when Jim was released

by City but an even bigger He said: “There is this chap in Belgium who is a massive surprise that he didn’t play Everton fan and I believe he league football earlier than is coming to the game today he did. and I hope he has a good He said: “Although Jim had time in Morecambe.’’ a good career and was

Jim Bentley Testimonial Matchday Programme

A word from the Club Secreta r y

A true Morecambe legend...

Good afternoon and welcome...

I

have to say at the outset that when Jim asked me to write a piece for his Testimonial programme, I was not only thrilled but felt extremely honoured. Quite often the phrase “good servant”, “stalwart” and “club legend” are in my view to easily used.

They should be reserved to describe someone who actually is. Jim Bentley is one of those very few who can be looked upon as not a good servant, but an exceptionally good servant.

He most certainly was a stalwart (maybe still is!). Club Legend, well his greatest triumph was undoubtedly climbing the steps at the New Wembley, to collect the Trophy to seal the club’s promotion to the Football League, but even without that he would have been a club legend.

He joined the club back in 2002 from Telford United, a signing that Jim Harvey had been desperate to make, (he played Justin Jackson out of the game at The Bucks Head in January 2001, and that helped make up JH’s mind).

He left Telford with near on iconic status, and whilst due to injury it took him a while to make his debut (away at Shrewsbury in the equivalent

of the JPT) he quickly became a crowd favourite.

He was always going to make a great captain and will be a great manager, Jim on the day he was appointed manager because he was, and is, a natural leader. a flourish, his hand writing He is an organiser and an was. I knew then that we organised person. He is were getting a special sort of meticulous and 100% in everything he does. If you ask person and player.

Jim to do something and he Something to me that shows agrees, you know full well that the type of person Jim is, is it will be done. that 16 years after leaving Over the years, I have always got on really well with the big fella; in fact one of his strengths is his charm and charisma, and the hand of friendship that he offers to all. He has time for everyone. I know that Jim’s friendship is something that both myself and Rachel value.

Manchester City, Bernard Halford, who was the long serving General Secretary, and is now President of Manchester City, always asks whenever he sees me “ How’s that “young” Bentley doing ?” When I tell Jim he always says, “Tell Mr Halford, I’m fine”

Ultimate respect for Apart from his efforts Neil Marsdin both on and off each other. the field of play for To Jim and his family, have a Morecambe that I admire wonderful Testimonial Year, him for, I also admire and with today’s game against am envious of his meticulous your beloved Toffees just hand writing. When he being the start of it all. signed his first ever contract for Morecambe, I noticed Neil Marsdin Club Secretary how neat and tidy, albeit with

Morecambe v Everton 14th July 2012

19

Jack Be n t l e y

Dad Jack proved to be a major inspiration

I

n November 2011 Jim followed in his father Jack’s footsteps by being named as an AFC Telford United legend.

Jim played 181 games in his five seasons at the New Bucks Head from 1997 to 2002 before moving on to Morecambe, and his contribution was marked with an entry into the Telford Hall of Fame last year. In doing so he joined his dad in the wall of legends after Jack spent almost 15 years with the club.

Jack was a prolific goalscorer with 431 goals for Telford in more than 800 appearances between 1963 and 1977.

His special contribution to its history were also marked with a legacy when the East Terrace became the Jack

Bentley Terrace.

When he received his plaque on behalf of his dad in 2008 Jim said: “It’s a great honour.

“The family are very proud.

Growing up he was my hero so it’s a massive honour to be able to come here and collect the award on his behalf.

“We, his family, and all his friends back in Liverpool are never going to forget about him, but it’s nice that he’s getting his name up in lights down here in Telford. It’s great to know his name lives on in these parts as well.

“The way he was, he’d be saying: ‘Why me? Why couldn’t it be George (Jagger) or Bobby Irvine or someone like that?’

“But for what he’s done for the club – his goals, the way he

went about his job, and the appearances he made – it’s a nice touch by the club to recognise him and name the terrace after him.”

Jim admits that his dad was his inspiration and the only downside to the Wembley win was that he was not there.

He said: “Unfortunately dad couldn’t make it to see me lift the cup at Wembley. He had to go into hospital for an operation and unfortunately he died shortly afterwards.

“He taught me so much about the game and the way you should conduct yourself and we all miss him terribly. I was so proud that he was at Everton and the career he had in the game and I will be thinking about him today.’’

Jack Bentley, fourth from the left in the middle row

20

Jim Bentley Testimonial Matchday Programme

Ba ll Sp onsor

Ball Sponsor: Jessops Estate Agents

J

ESSOPS, the Morecambe-based estate agency, is a local independently run business with a well earned reputation for friendly advice and successful property sales.

When James Fletcher took over the business four years ago, he quickly made his mark introducing a number of innovations that propelled him and his new company to the very forefront of local property sales. These include a fixed set of conveyance fees allowing both sellers and buyers the opportunity to work out costs at the outset and an in-house accredited domestic energy assessor to carry out all energy

Jessops believe that such innovations are important, but the company also recognises that the prime role is to sell properties. And that is why the emphasis remains firmly on that – SELLING.

“We realise that moving home is an important decision in anyone's life. You want to know you have the right professional support, the right estate agent and the right solicitor. That's why we at Jessops, offer even more value to the house moving process by recommending local people to help us.

James explains: “Most property businesses now also operate letting agencies and I think this rather detracts from the business at hand. When people come into our office I am sure they want to either buy or sell a property. We are there to facilitate this and we succeed because we can give our customers that undivided attention.

James added: “Jessops specialise solely in residential sales which means my team can concentrate exclusively on selling your home. We treat every client as an individual and we try to ensure that our service is tailor-made to those individual requirements and our priority is to achieve the highest level of value for every property.”

performance surveys

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66-68 Yorkshire Street, Morecambe, Lancashire, LA3 1QF

Congratulations to a true Morecambe legend on a well deserved testimonial from Phil and all the team at PADS PAINT AND DECORATIVE SUPPLIES LIMITED

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Morecambe v Everton 14th July 2012

21

Tony and Rob Gribbin wish Jim all the best in his testimonial year

Tel/Fax: 01524 847833 • Mob: 07831 495316 • Email: lancithaulage@live.co.uk

22

Jim Bentley Testimonial Matchday Programme

More cambe Ca reer Sta ts & Ma scots

Jim's Morecambe Career J

the summer of 2002 after Jim Harvey persuaded him to join the Shrimps ahead of a number of chasing clubs. He proved to be an inspired signing as he soon became a firm favourite with the fans with his 100% commitment.

The dedication paid off when he captained to team towards promotion to the Football League via the Play-Offs at Wembley in Proud dad with Jack and baby Max May 2007.

ames Graham Bentley was born in Liverpool on June 11th 1976. A trainee with Manchester City from July 1993 until being released in the close season 1997 without making a first team appearance.

His late father had won the F.A.Trophy in 1970-71 with Telford United and Jim also joined the Bucks in August 1997 making more than 150 appearances scoring 23 goals in the Conference.

He took over the job of Reserve manager in March 2010 and added a coaching role in May 2010. Took over as Morecambe manager for the 2011-12 season.

Jim moved to Morecambe in

Lancs.

Junior Cup

Conf.

League Cup

Conference

FAC

FAT

Play Offs

LDV

2002-03

23(1sub), 5goals

4, 2g

1+1

2

1

1(1)

-

2003-04

36, 4 gls

1

0+1

-

-

4, win

-

2004-05

38, 3goals

2, 1g

1(2)

-

1

-

2+1

2005-06

40, 4goals

2

2, 1goal

2, 1goal

2

-

-

2006-07

31, 1goal

2

3

3, win

-

-

-

FL

FA Cup

FL Cup

LDV

Play Offs

2007-08

43, 6goals

1

3, 1goal

2

-

2008-09

45, 3goals

1

1

3

-

2009-10

27+1 (13unused), 3goals

1

-

1

1 (1unused)

2010-11

7+1 (22 unused), 1goals

- (1unused)

- (1unused)

0+1

-

2011-12

-

-

-

-

-

Morecambe : 292+2 [36] (50+4 [6] cup appearances 28 (7 cup) goals.

Morecambe v Everton 14th July 2012

Mascots T ODAY’s mascots are Jack and Max Bentley.

As you can see by the pictures both are already devout Evertonians, as well as Morecambe fans, and they will play a big part in their dad’s celebrations this afternoon.

Jack outside Goodison Park

23

D ix i e De an

William Ralph “Dixie” Dean

by Terry Ainsworth William Ralph (Dixie) Dean was born at 325 Laird Street in Birkenhead, Cheshire on January 22nd 1907 on the opposite side of the River Mersey to Liverpool. Dean's family on both his mother and father's side hailed from Chester. He was the grandson of Ralph Brett; a train driver who drove the Royal train during the reign of George V. Dean grew up as a supporter of Everton thanks to the efforts of his father, William Senior who once took him during the 1914–1915 title winning season.

Dean's childhood coincided with the First World War and between the age of 7 and 11 he delivered cow's milk to local families as part of the "war effort: "Well, it was war time you see, so you were grafting all the time. I used to take milk out. I’d be up at half-past four in the morning and go down and get the ponies and the milk floats, then I’d come out to this place in Upton, between Upton and Arrowe Park, and Burgess’ Farm was there.

We used to collect the milk in the big urns and take it out to people’s houses, serving it out of the ladle. And not only that, you had an allotment,

24

and that was in school time.

And there was no such thing as pinching and stealing and all that bloody caper. In those days, you were growing all that stuff and you needed it for the war time."

Dean attended Laird Street School but felt he was given no formal education. He said: "My only lesson was football; I used to give the pens out

and Dean was happy with the arrangement as he could play for the borstal school's football team.

Dean falsely told fellow pupils he was caught stealing as he didn't want to be considered too virtuous by his fellow pupils.

on Friday afternoons...the ink, and the chalks. That was the only job I had in school, I never had any lessons."

He left school aged 14 and worked for Wirral Railway as an apprentice fitter, his father William also worked there. His father had been working on the railway since he was 11 years old for Great Western Railway and he later became a train driver before moving to Birkenhead to work for Wirral Railway and be closer to his future wife. Dean took on a night-job so that he could concentrate on his first love, football: "The other two apprentice fitters, they didn’t like the night job because there were too many bloody rats around there, coming out of the Anglo-oil company and the Vacamoil company...rats as big as whippets. So I took their night job, and of course, I could always have a game of football then.”

When he turned 11, he voluntarily attended Albert (Memorial) Industrial school, a borstal school in Birkenhead because of the football facilities on offer. The Dean family home had little room for him due to the family's size

His managers at Wirral Railway were directors of New Brighton Football Club and they had expressed an interest in signing Dean.

Dean had told the club that he was not interested in signing and would later play

Bill’s wedding day

Jim Bentley Testimonial Matchday Programme

Dixie Dea n for local team Pensby United in Pensby. It was there that Dean attracted the attention of a Tranmere Rovers scout.

Whilst at Tranmere, he was on the receiving end of a tough challenge which resulted in him losing a testicle in a reserve game against Altrincham. Immediately following the challenge, a team mate rubbed the area to soothe the pain. Dean shouted "Don't rub 'em, count 'em.”

He scored 27 goals in 30 league appearances for Tranmere Rovers and was attracting the interest of many clubs across England including Arsenal and Newcastle United.

Upon leaving Tranmere Rovers, the secretary Bert Cooke reneged on an agreement to pay 10% of the transfer fee to Dean. Dean was paid 1% of the fee which he gave to his parents who in turn donated it to Birkenhead General Hospital. Instead of receiving £300 he was given £30 and never forgot this injustice.

In March 1925 Dean joined Everton in the First Division for a transfer fee of £3,000. He made his first appearance against Arsenal at Highbury and scored on his home debut a week later against Aston Villa.

He suffered a serious motorcycle accident in Holywell in 1926, in which he suffered a fractured skull and jaw. He was told by doctors

Everton, Division I Champions 1927-28

that he could not play football again. They were particularly concerned about the dangers posed by heading the ball.

Dean ignored that advice and was once again Everton's top scorer in season 192627. This included a large number of headed goals. In February 1927 Dean won his first international cap playing for England against Wales.

Dean scored after 10 minutes and added a second before the end of the game. The following month he scored two more against Scotland. In May 1927, Dean scored hattricks against both Belgium and Luxembourg. In his first five games for England he scored an amazing 12 goals.

Dean was in sensational form in season 1927-28. He scored seven hat-tricks and ended up with a recordbreaking 60 league goals in 39 games. Everton won the First Division title that season with 53 points, two more than their rivals Huddersfield Town.

Dean was also Everton's top

Morecambe v Everton 14th July 2012

scorer in season 1928-29. He repeated this feat in 1929-30 but could not save Everton from being relegated. Everton easily won the Second Division championship in season 1930-31. Dean scored in 12 consecutive league games and once again was the club's leading scorer.

Everton won the First Division championship in 1931-32.

Dean scored eight hat-tricks that season and for the seventh successive season was Everton's top scorer.

Dean was also recalled to the international side and scored against Spain in December 1931. All told, he scored 18 goals in 16 games for England.

Dean also scored 28 FA Cup goals for Everton including one in the club's 3-0 victory over Manchester City in the 1933 FA Cup Final.

Dean's body took a terrible hammering during his career and he suffered several spells out of the side with injuries.

He failed to be leading scorer

25

D ix i e De an

Bill receiving the FA Cup in 1933 from King George VI and Queen Elizabeth

for Everton in season 1933-34 but regained his position as the best marksman at the club in 1934-35.

Matt Busby played against Dean several times. In his autobiography he pointed out: "To play against Dixie Dean was at once a delight and a nightmare. He was a perfect specimen of an athlete, beautifully proportioned, with immense strength, adept on the ground but with extraordinary skill in the air. However close you watched him, his timing in the air was such that he was coming down before you got anywhere near him, and he hit that ball with his head as hard and as accurate as most players could kick it. Defences were close to panic when corners came over. And though he scored a huge tally of goals with headers he was an incredibly unselfish and amazingly accurate layer-off of chances for others. He was resilient

26

in face of the big, tough centre-halves of his day and I cannot think of one centre-half today to match up with that lot, though it was often the unstoppable force against the immovable object - and he was a thorough sportsman."

Eddie Hapgood, the Arsenal full-back agreed: "Dixie Dean, a wizard with his feet, but just as deadly with his head, as strong as a house, and just as hard to knock off the ball, as clean in his play as a new pin, a great sportsman, and a trier to the end. Dixie was always a tough handful, not only because he was so big and fast, but because he used to roam out on to the wings, taking the centre-half with him, and, frequently, slipping him, making it extremely hard for the rest of the defence to keep some sort of order."

In December, 1936, Everton signed Tommy Lawton for a fee of ÂŁ6,500. It was a record fee for a teenager. One of

the attractions of the deal was that Lawton now had the opportunity to play with Dean.

When they met for the firsttime, Dean put his arm round Lawton and said: "I know you've come here to take my place. Anything I can do to help you I will. I promise anything at all." Dean was 30 years old and after suffering several serious injuries, he knew that there was not much time left for him at the top.

Dean kept his promise and spent a lot of time with Lawton on the training field. Gordon Watson, who played at insideleft for Everton, later recalled: "Lawton and Dean used to work together under the main stand, Dean throwing up a large cased ball, stuffed with wet paper to make it as heavy as a medicine ball".

Six weeks after joining the club, Tommy Lawton was brought into the first team for an away match against Wolverhampton Wanderers, as Dean was rested prior to a fifth round FA Cup tie with Tottenham Hotspur. Lawton found it difficult playing against the England centrehalf, Stan Cullis, however, he did score a goal 15 minutes from the end.

Everton drew the FA Cup tie with Tottenham Hotspur 1-1 and it was decided to play Tommy Lawton alongside Dixie Dean in the replay. In the second minute Lawton scored with a tremendous shot from outside the penalty area. Dean turned to Joe Mercer and said: "Well, that's

Jim Bentley Testimonial Matchday Programme

Dixie Dea n it then. That's the swan song.

That's the end of it." Dean realised that it would not be long before this talented player took his place in the side. After 20 minutes Albert Geldard provided the centre for Dean to put Everton 2-0 up. Dean later added a third but Tottenham Hotspur scored four to go through to the next round.

John Jones, Everton's young full-back, later argued that it was Dixie Dean who was the main coach at the club: "Dixie was the boss. Young players at Everton had to keep in order otherwise they were pretty soon stepped on... It was Dixie, along with a couple of England centrehalves, Charlie Gee and Tommy White who ran the show. Occasionally they'd call a meeting and they'd be telling the youngsters what to do. It was the best method of

coaching I ever experienced."

Lawton agreed but claimed that: "All they ever said was make sure you pass it to a man in the same colour shirt."

At the beginning of season 1937-38 Tommy Lawton played at inside-right and Dixie Dean at centre-forward.

The pairing did not work and Everton failed to win a game when they two men played together. On 8th September 1937, Dean was dropped and Lawton replaced him as centre-forward to play against Manchester City.

During his career he was known as Dixie Dean. This was a reference to his dark complexion and curly black hair. Dean hated being called "Dixie" and insisted that his friends and acquaintances used his real name. His biographer, Nick Walsh, argues in Dixie Dean: The Official Biography of a

Goalscoring Legend (1977) that Dean felt that the term "had connections with colour problems connected with the Southern states of America, and therefore contained an inference that he was of that origin, or half-caste."

Dean was leaving the pitch after a game in 1938 when a spectator called out an early form of racist abuse.

Dean went over to him and punched him in the face. A policeman came running over but instead of arresting him, shook him by the hand.

At the end of season 1937-38 Dean was transferred to Notts County in the Third Division. While at Everton he had scored 349 goals in 399 games. This included 19 against local rivals Liverpool.

He only played nine games for his new club before moving to Ireland to play for Sligo Rovers.

After retiring from football in April 1941, Dixie Dean ran a pub in Chester called the “Dublin Packet.

Dean died on March 1st 1980, aged 73 after suffering a heart attack at Everton's home ground Goodison Park whilst watching a match against their closest rivals, Liverpool. It was the first time that Dean had visited Goodison Park for several years due to ill-health.

The funeral took place at St. James Church on Laird Street, the street where he was born in Birkenhead.

Landlord Bill in his pub the “Dublin Packet” Morecambe v Everton 14th July 2012

27

The no t i c e b o a rd

Happy birthdays to...

H

APPy birthday to Joseph Charlton!

Joseph goes to Great Wood School and will be six on July 29th.

He’s a season ticket holder at Manchester City and his favourite player is Pablo Zabaleta. He goes home and away with Man City and has been to many grounds already. He also supports his local team Morecambe, and attends football training at the Globe twice a week with Community Sports coaches Jeremy Austin and James Burbidge, who are a credit to the Club. He is an avid sports fan, and if not playing sport he is watching it.

D

AMIAN and James Galt are celebrating their birthdays today with a party at the Globe Arena.

James will turn 12 on 23rd July. James has been deaf since birth and wears a hearing aid and cochlear implant. This doesn’t stop his passion for football. He supports Morecambe and Man Utd and last year he started playing for Morecambe Deaf Youth FC (12-16yrs).

Morecambe Deaf Youth FC is based at the Globe arena on a Friday evening. James attends St Aidan’s Technology College at Preesall.

Damian turned nine on June 26th. Damian is also deaf and wears two hearing aids.

28

INSPIRATIONAL PLAYER CAPTAIN, MANAGER AND ALL-ROUND TOP BLOKE! Congratulations, Jim, in your testimonial year, from all the Shrimps fans at Fat Media, experts in graphic design and digital marketing.

www.fatmedia.co.uk From all at Fat Media – long time supporters of Morecambe Football Club, creators of the club crest and dedicated websites for the commercial department and club shop.

Big rural Schools 5-a-side football competition

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“Congratulations to Slyne-with-Hest Red who won this year’s Big Rural Schools 5-a-side football competition this week at Salt Ayre Leisure Centre”

Damian loves all sport, especially football and rugby. He too plays football on a Friday at the Globe Arena for Morecambe Deaf Juniors FC (8-12 yrs). Damian also supports Morecambe and Man Utd. Damian attends Forton Primary school with his sister Madison (5).

Morecambe Deaf FC was set up to provide football training to deaf children, providing additional communication support where required. Training starts again in September.

For further details ring Vicki Galt on 07709 033368.

Jim Bentley Testimonial Matchday Programme

The notic eboa rd

Girls set for gruelling charity challenge

y

OU will notice a group of ladies around the Globe today collecting for a special cause.

On July 15th, 14 women from the Morecambe and Lancaster area including Melanie Bateson, who works at the club on match days, and team organisers Lauren Zawadzki and Elena Gifford will each be hiking 26.1 miles around the Coniston Fells with an overall ascent of 4750ft.

The route includes Coniston Old Man and a full circuit of Lake Coniston. Collectively the ladies will complete a staggering 365 miles in just one day to raise money for The Teenage Cancer Trust.

The inspiration for their plight came from the fantastic 3hundredand65 campaign taking place throughout 2012 - a graphic novel, created on Twitter, one day at a time, in aid of The Trust. One very talented illustrator and an army of tweeters including Stephen Fry, Johnathan Ross, Bill Bailey, Tim Burgess, Ian Rankin, David Baddiel and more, are doing their bit for The Teenage Cancer Trust, so they came up with their very own 3hundredand65 MILE plan!! One mile for every day of the day of the year, just like the 365 tweets.

The team of friends, colleagues and yoga buddies have been training together towards their summer challenge which has been designed by Joe Eddleston of Country Adventures http://www.countryadventures. co.uk who has donated the time of his company and employees to support them along the route and navigate the map when they become a little unsure!

They have also been generously supported

Morecambe v Everton 14th July 2012

by The Runner’s Centre Lancaster, Mike’s Sports World, Practical Van Hire, and Bay Horse who have both donated goods and logistical supplies for the event.

You can sponsor the team at www.justgiving. com/3hundredand65miles and help them raise vital funds for Teenage Cancer Trust.

To read the 3hundredand65 story and find out more visit www.3hundredand65. co.uk You can also follow the novel @3hundredand65 to see the story unfold.

Congratulations, Jim, on your well-deserved testimonial From all at Wright & Lord, proud sponsors of The Shrimps

Wright & Lord Solicitors 63 Victoria Street Morecambe Lancs LA4 4AF 53 Princes Crescent Bare Morecambe Lancs LA4 4BY T: (01524) 402050 F: (01524) 402051 E: info@wrightandlord.com W: www.wrightandlord.com Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA Nos. 00333083 and 00403957)

29

Ji m’s Great e st Eve r t o n XI Goalkeeper

1. Neville Southall

7. Peter reid

The best goalkeeper of his era and one of the best I have ever seen

Another local lad who would always gave 110% and demand the same of those around him. A born winner who I had the privilege of knowing when I was at Manchester City.

Defenders

2. Gary Stevens Good defender who could also get forward well. Deserved to win a large number of caps with England and one of the best full backs of his time.

3. Dave Watson A legend in my eyes because he would run through a brick wall for the club. A local lad with a never-say-die attitude he just shades into the team ahead of Derek Mountfield.

8. Kevin Sheedy A wand of a left foot and a free kick specialist.

He was a fantastic winger who put in an endless supply of crosses for the strikers and was a great club servant.

1

9. Tim Cahill

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

4. Kevin ratcliffe The captain during Everton’s glory years and a real leader.

Had a lot of pace for a defender and people very rarely got past him.

5. Leighton Baines I think he has been one of the best signings the club has made in recent years. Very consistent player who has performed to a high level for a number of seasons now.

Probably my favourite player from the last 20 years. Another player who always gives his all and has proved to be an inspired signing. He is a real box to box player who scores important goals and someone you can never take your eyes off.

Forwards

10. Dixie Dean I obviously never saw him play but his record speaks for itself. To score 60 goals in one season at any level takes some doing and he fully deserved his legendary status.

11. Graeme Sharp

Midfield

6. Andrei Kanchelskis A winger with pace to burn. He was an excellent crosser of the ball and provided the service and also scored a few himself.

Just edges out Big Dunc in my team because he was such an integral part of that successful team created by Howard Kendall. He had a great attitude and loved the club so much that he is still involved to this day.

Subs: Tim Howard, Duncan Ferguson, Marouane Fellaini, Phil Jagielka, Derek Mountfield, Trevor Steven, Andy Gray

30

Jim Bentley Testimonial Matchday Programme

Morecambe v Ever ton

REEF & RIVER AQUARIUM ...congratulates Jim on the occasion of his testimonial match and sends him and the team every good wish for the coming season.

Everyone at CW&R wishes Jim Bentley a successful

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testimonial season

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David & Carla Brayshaw would like to wish Jim “All the Best” for his testimonial year.

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Morecambe v Everton 14th July 2012

31

Te ams hee t Morecambe Manager: Jim Bentley Colours: red Shirts / White Shorts

Everton Manager: David Moyes Colours: Blue Shirts / Blue Shorts

Barry roche

Tim Howard

Nich Fenton

Jan Mucha

Robbie Threlfall

Tony Hibbert

James Bentley

Sylvain Distin

Will Haining Izak reid Andrew Wright Lewis Alessandra Kevin Ellison Dan Parkinson Lee Jones Jordan Burrow Chris McCready Stewart Drummond

Phil Neville Seamus Coleman Shane Duffy Darron Gibson Steven Naismith Tim Cahill Leon Osman Marouane Fellaini Jack rodwell Jose Baxter

Andrew Fleming

Magaye Gueye

Gary McDonald

Apostolos velios

Joe McGee Joe Mwasile Andy Parrish

Victor Anichebe Joao Silva Conor McAleny

Chris Doyle James Short Jack redshaw Danny Carlton

Pre Season friendlies at the Globe: Saturday, July 21st (3pm): Morecambe v Preston North End Saturday, July 28th (3pm): Morecambe v Bury Wednesday, August 1st (7.45pm): Morecambe v Bolton Wanderers Saturday, August 4th (3pm): Morecambe v Sheffield Utd Wednesday, August 8th (7.30pm): Morecambe v Carlisle Utd

Match Officials: Referee: Jeremy Simpson Assistant Referee: Paul Kettlewell Assistant Referee: Lee Metcalfe Fourth Official: Ian Gittens