FOOTBALL shirts, scarves and flags left in tribute to legendary ex-Ipswich and England boss Sir Bobby Robson after his death will now go on to spread a love of the game among disadvantaged people across the world.

FOOTBALL shirts, scarves and flags left in tribute to legendary ex-Ipswich and England boss Sir Bobby Robson after his death will now go on to spread a love of the game among disadvantaged people across the world.

Fans at Sir Bobby's former clubs - Ipswich Town, Newcastle United, West Bromwich Albion and Fulham - left about 6,000 items of football memorabilia in an outpouring of affection and respect for the former England manager who died in July.

Andrew Robson, Sir Bobby's son, said: “My whole family was incredibly touched at the scenes that followed dad's death.

“I took my two daughters to see the display of thousands of shirts and scarves at St James' Park and it was truly amazing.

“There were so many personal messages dedicated to his memory. It was very moving - overwhelming really.

“My family and dad's former clubs didn't want to see any of that memorabilia go to waste.

“With help from charities who specialise in this type of activity all the football shirts, scarves and flags which were laid with such respect will now go on to inspire a love of football all over the world.”

Three charities, Coaches Across Continents, KitAid and the RAF's Taking Football to Africa and Beyond Appeal, will distribute the tribute items in Eastern Europe, Asia, South America and Africa.

Mr Robson added: “I understand that receiving a football shirt can sometimes double the wardrobe of the recipient, which underlines the importance of getting them to where they are most needed.

“We're pleased they will go on to bring pleasure to so many people. I think dad would have appreciated knowing that people thousands of miles away from his home will now be wearing English football shirts and scarves.”