Triumphant England heroes from 1966 including manager Sir Alf Ramsey and captain Bobby Moore grew up in the borough
Barking and Dagenham’s proud role in England’s greatest footballing triumph is being celebrated in a new exhibition.
Valence House Museum is marking the 60th anniversary of England’s historic 1966 World Cup victory through an exhibition exploring how local footballing heroes helped carry the team to glory in what sadly remains the country’s one and only major tournament success.
Visitors can discover the stories of four figures with strong links to Barking and Dagenham who played a crucial role in football history. After winning a league title for Ipswich Town in 1962, Sir Alf Ramsey, from Dagenham, managed the England team with bold new tactics, while Barking-born captain and West Ham legend Bobby Moore led with calm brilliance.
Dagenham’s Martin Peters also scored in the World Cup Final, and fellow Dagenham hero Jimmy Greaves played an important role throughout England’s journey to victory.
The exhibition features a range of unique memorabilia and artefacts, including a statue of Bobby Moore lifting the Jules Rimet Trophy, on loan from the National Football Museum in Manchester. Visitors can also see an original flag flown during the 1966 World Cup Final at Wembley Stadium, an original match ticket from the final, a signed photograph of Bobby Moore with the Jules Rimet Trophy, and a World Cup Willie sweet tin signed by Martin Peters.
Also on display is a special painting of Bobby Moore created for the exhibition by local artist Lena Lim.
Simon Perry, Barking and Dagenham Council’s cabinet member for culture, heritage and leisure, said: “The 1966 World Cup victory is one of the greatest moments in English sporting history and Barking and Dagenham played a remarkable part in that success.
“This exhibition shines a spotlight on the local people whose talent, determination and leadership helped England lift the World Cup. We encourage residents to come along, learn more about our borough’s footballing heritage and enjoy these fantastic artefacts.”
The exhibition runs until Friday, 27th November. For more information:
Visit valencehousecollections.co.uk/events
