Your 'Best' Memories

Linda Galeozzie - Oct 07
George was a beautiful man who could play the beautiful game.
I still miss him two years on after his death. There will never be another George Best and nobody will ever come close to him with the football.
Goodnight and God Bless You My Hero Forever!!!!!!! xxxx

Keira Maxwell ,FALKIRK - Apr '07
George was the Best footie player ever
i think everyone will miss him. V.I.P

Lyndsay - Feb '07
I was at the funeral last year and i am so glad i went and seen it rather than watch it on the television he was the best footballer that has ever played the game and he will never be forgotten anywhere especially here in northern ireland.I liked george cause no matter who put him down on the pitch and off the pitch he always got up again and didn't worry what people said about him!he also never forgot where he came from.He was a true BELFAST BOY!!!And we loved him and still do!!! REST IN PEACE GEORGE XXXX (I AM GLAD YOU SEEN THE ENGLAND V NORTHERN MATCH)

Bob - Feb '07
I am 14 but I have seen George Best on videos and he was the best

Gavan Caldwell - Nov '06
I remember going to manchester in the early seventies and staying with a manchester city player - he refused to attend a mid week match Man United v Southampton as they where great rivals - anyhow george scored and gave the fingers to the press who had been giving him a hard time - on the saturday unitied played chelsea and where beaten one nil but I will always remember a fan getting on the pitch and bowing down to george - it kind of shocked me - little did I know that later on I would have taken one of the last public photographs of george on a visit to belfast and finally his funeral.
H ave other memories of going to scotland to watch n ireland play and guess who didn't turn up ha ha who cares, george was very very special very very special.

Linda - Jan '07
George was a beautiful man who could play the beautiful game. God Bless him he is safe now where nobody can ever hurt him again. He will always be remembered in the hearts of all Manchester United fans and his beloved Ireland.

Trevor in England - July '06
In life AND in death George gave the people of Ulster pride and self-respect when there was NOTHING. The world's greatest footballer and Ireland's finest son....Rest in Peace

Gerard in USA - July '06
Death is the great equalizer.
I saw him play for United,
he was special, terminally unique.

Ya can't be too dumb for AA, but you can be too clever.

Vivianne Cordeiro from Brazil - March '06
I´v never seen his football but now I know who is... the BEST. I thought the best player of the world it was from Brazil, but I was wrong, he was from Belfast.Thanks George for become a simple game in a magnific show.

Grant - March '06
I always wanted to meet George Best and I am absloutely gutted that I never had that chance to meet him because he passed away last year. A legend of the highest order and a player that I may not have seen live...but I have see enough. A thumb above PELE.

Tommy Durham - Mar 06
George Best was the greatest football player to ever have lived he PURE was genius, as pele said "George is greatest footballer in the world".
Marradona... Good, Pele... Better, George... Best
I hope you are showing God how to play the game rest in peace.

King - Feb '06
George is a legend and without the doubt the most talented footballer ever to play, i never seen him play properly but from what i've seen he is a diffrent class from every football player. Gd luck george and may you dassel the football hevens with your skills. R.I.P

Scot Stuart Coulthard - Jan '06
A sincere salute to a sporting great. George - I may never have seen you play live - but from the archive shots you were out of this world. Yeah - you may have had your weaknesses - but that doesn't make you a bad person.

When I heard your passing mentioned on Sky Sports I was gutted - but at least you're in comfort and warmth now. Sport has lost one of its all - time greats. Your candle's burnt out long before your legend ever will.

I went to Stormont to pay my respects to you with my brother David and we wanted to salute your genius.

A true legend has passed away. George - I'm a young Scots guy who supports Newcastle and didn't even see you play - but your skills were tremendous. I wrote while you were trying to rally to let you know we were rooting for you.

Sleep tight. You united a city torn apart by war. Thanks a lot for the joy and pleasure you gave your fans. You fought a good fight - but sadly couldn't win. Sleep tight Georgie - you deserve it. Always in my heart and in my thoughts. God Bless Georgie. I'll never forget you. All my love, Scot.

Brad - Jan '06
You where loved so much in England. We will all miss you, gorgey boy.

Tomtheglenman - Dec '05
WE SALUTE YOU GEORGE !!
Always remembered as 'THE GREATEST PLAYER IN THE WORLD'

Noel Pilling - Dec '05
Ann - Just checked the site and read yr response on "Jewels of the Madonna" - Don't remember Antonia Ridge, but pretty sure it was intro music for a drama series.
Yes, also happy memories of Dick Barton. Believe the music is "The Devil's Gallop" or something similar. I graduated from Uncle Mac to listening to jazz on AFN.
Thanks, Noel

Ash - Dec '05
R.I.P george, best by name, best by nature!
Maradona good; Pele better; George Best.
Farewell to northern irelands favourite son,

Thank you for the fantastic memories George! You will never ever be forgotten for your amazing talent, football! your name said everything about you "BEST". You truly were a footballing legend. Northern Ireland couldn't be more proud to have their favourite son back home!!
GOODNIGHT TO OUR BELFAST BOY!!
xxxx

David, South Belfast - Dec '05
What a send off.You will live in our hearts forever. A legend, simply the best.

Chris - Dec '05
Farewell our friend, but not goodbye,
Your time has come, your soul must fly,
To dance with angels to find The Son, but how we'll miss our special one, He walked amongst us just a while, weaved your magic, made us smile, Your life so full of light and tears, we lived it through you through the years, The golden days they went so fast, the precious times, why can't they last, So many loved you, did you know, we were not ready to let you go, But stars from heaven are only leant, a gift from God, that's why they're sent, We won't forget our Belfast Boy, you filled our lives with so much joy, Your star will shine now in the sky, FARE WELL OUR FRIEND, BUT NOT GOODBYE

Sassy Girl - Dec '05
I started to cry I was so upset. He is a star and my sympaphy with the family xx

Scott Bishop - Dec '05
My Grandad was a footballer for Dundee way back , as I grew up he would tell me that George Best was the greatest footballer ever. My Grandad has left us now as has George and watching all the old footage of george I must agree , he was the greatest footballer this world has ever , and will ever see , GOD BLESS HIS MOTHER for giving this world George

William Carey - Dec '05
Farewell to a true Manchester United legend the Best ever.
Thanks for the memories in the 11 & 7 shirt.

Brian - Dec '05
Georgey. Your Irish feet left the world mesmerised. You will never be forgotten. You're a hero. Now go and rest in peace, and God bless you.You're a god.

Adrian Trott - Dec '05
Miss you Georgie....cannot feel any form of life in my body at the moment..you showed me the way...
God bless you George Best....
Eternal love...
Adrian Trott

Sam McFadden, East Belfast - Dec '05
We will never see his like again. Not only was George a football icon to all us Ulster people, but a person who came from a working-class background and never forgot his roots. We will always love and miss him. Rest in peace, we shall not forget you.

Jason G - Dec '05
George Best was definitely the best footballer in the world, he could take the ball past any player and shoot with any foot. He packed in early but still played in the top flight for over a decade , so if you look back at his carear and what he won it was fantastic. I would have loved to have seen the man play , even to have met him , I am United through and through and was at the w.b.a game it was brilliant and I am only 20 but can say I have seen the 68 team .

Tom - Dec '05
Best was a legend and the best ever football and that's said by me, only 14 Best by name, Best name

John Smyth - Dec '05
John Smyth, ex Belfast now London. George you were a legend in your time, and we will allways remember you. Why should we cry when God recalls his own. He needs a new player for his team and he picked the best. He wanted you George so play well like you allways did, and rest in peace our Belfast boy. God bless.

Ryan - Nov '05
King George Best

Rab - Nov 05
Simply the Best.

Belfast girl - Nov '05
Heaven has took its angel back from us he was only lent to us for 59 years!! A legend was George Best!! thoughts are with his son and family.x.x.x

Caoimhe, Belfast - Nov 05
You did what politicians failed to do - unite the people of northern ireland. you said hopefully people will remember the football - and the last few days have showed that people will never forget the genius that you were, we are so proud that you were ours! simply the best! god bless you, our belfast boy!

Leanne - Nov 05
Hello .. im sorry to hear that George Best, the best football player ever sadly passed away .. i am a big fan of manchester united and i loved George. It was a shame he let himself down by drinking .. but we all love him at the end of the day and he knew that .. R.I.P George Best .. we all love you x.

Anthony (Best) Robinson - Nov 05
George Best.... he will always be remembered in our hearts and he will always be remembered for the time he did for the English and for all the Man Utd fans... he was THE best football player that the PREM had seen in the 70's..

He is forvever in our hearts and he will always be remembered R.I.P George Best.

Andrew Boal - Nov 05
My name is Andy Boal, and I grew up on the Castlereagh estate across from Cregagh and attended Lisnasharragh school playing in the same school football team as Georgie I also played with him in the Cregagh Youth club team, which reached the finals of the youth cup. The final was played at Derry City football clubs ground, unfortunately I contracted Osteo myolytis in both legs and was in hospital for almost a year. When I came out I was told that all the club had signed a book about football for me and that although I hadn't played in the final I would receive a cup medal a swell as I had played in all the other matches. My father tells me that when the book was brought to our house for him to bring to me in the hospital there were some pages missing , left out at the binding stage and the club took it back to get it rebound with the signed pages included. I often wonder what happened to the book, as with my serious illness my parents had other things to worry about.

When we played our home matches in the field facing Geordies house his mum would always appear at half time with either hot oxo for both teams if the weather was cold or orange segments, still in their skins, which we would always turn into gum shields and pretend to be Rinty Monaghan.

I will always have fond memories of his mum, and great affection for Geordies tremendous skill as a footballer and his quiet humanity and charitable work. Goodbye geordie and thanks for all the pleasure and memories you gave to our club, town, country, and a whole generation of young people for whom football was away to a better future. One of our teachers would always say Best by name and best by nature when Geordie would as usual be at the top of the class, oh yes he was a smart lad our Geordie.

A native of Belfast - Nov '05
Georgie, Georgie, Georgie the Belfast boy. The best footballer in the world. PEACE AT LAST!

Man U Fan, Co. Armagh - Nov 05
Truly the best footballer in sporting history, my thoughts are with his family at this time, Rest in Peace.

Many years ago my friend jeff and i went to the city ground to watch forest play man utd...we were looking forward to watching george best, dennis law, bobbie charlton etc...........sadly we arrived five mins late and spent the whole of the match at the very back of the trent end and did not see a single kick of the match..... the atmosphere was well worth it though and it is a memory i will take to my grave...............

R.I.P. the BEST football player in the world..EVER...

JUNE NEWBY - Nov 05
THE BEST , NO OTHER WORDS CAN SAY, THE GREATEST , THE BEST , THATS IT , I WILL MISS HIM , DEAR GEORGE R.I.P.. YOU WILL ALWAYS BE WITH ME , THANKS FOR BEEN WHO YOU ARE . YOU MADE A LOT OF PEOPLE SO HAPPY , AND SO MANY PEOPLE LOVED YOU , YOU ARE A VERY BRAVE MAN , GOD BLESS YOU , SLEEP AND ENJOY , WHAT YOU HAVE NOW , PEACE

Patrick Lynott - Nov 05
I understand that thousands of visitors will flock to Belfast for the funeral and I believe hotel rooms will be booked out. I would like to offer accommodation in my home to 2-3 genuine visitors. If you are interested, I can be contacted at this website.

Genuine offer, prompted by the unusual circumstances. Regards. PL.

Michael Wilcock - Nov 05
George, thanks for all the good times, you made life worth living watching the best man u team i have seen 65-68. Matt & Jimmy are waiting for you your strip is ready for saturday kick off 3pm. go out and entertain like you always did you are still the best and always will be. I remember meeting you in manchester one saturday afternoon, you autographed my tattoo on my arm, I went to tattooist and asked him to go over it, it is now permanently on my arm, give my regards to matt & jimmy, good night bestie r.i.p . you deserve it. "Smila" heywood red & 6ts stretford end "right side"

Keith Turner - Nov 05
I am so sad that George has now gone, he lived "his" life and gave so much pleasure to so many people. I feel privileged to have seen his marvellous skills and I treasure the memories that he left me with during his brief career. Thank you George you were unique

Jacqueline Victoria Reilly - Nov 05
George Best was one of the top heros in scotland england +ireland and he will sadly be missed.the appause and silences were held really well.

HENRY DOWNEY. RICHMOND BC CANADA. - Nov 05
ONE BELFAST KID TO OTHER. HANK YOU FOR THE (BEST ) YEARS OF FOOTBALL.
HENRY BC CANADA.

Stanley Sloan - California - Nov 05
As an ex. East Belfast man and still a Glentoran man i've followed George's career since he left Belfast. Saw him many times with the San Jose Earthquakes and he still was brilliant. A little slower but accurate passes. The odd goal and dribbling was magic. He was still down to earth to talk to and his eyes lit up when I said I was from the Castlereagh Rd. I got his autograph and some photos of him in the red jersey of the ''Quakes''. There will never be another player like George, I think he even out done the great Stan Matthews. My deepest sympathy to Geordie's family. He will be missed. Stan Sloan,Calif.

Lars Göran Carlsson - Nov 05
Cantona is the best ever in English Laegue. ( But Best had more talent ). Kevin Keegan were quite good at Liverpool, and he were fantastic in Hamburg. ( For sure Bundesigas best ever. ) ( And for sure Worlds best in Hamburg 1978-79 ).

Al, Northern Ireland - Nov 05
Never seen him play...I was only born in 1984...but anyone i've ever spoken to has only ever called him "The Best"

Dawn, Ontario - Nov 05
A huge loss for Northern Ireland and football fans everywhere. Better then Pele... More handsome than any Beatle...

God bless, George, and your family.
Dawn - originally from Lurgan now in Ontario, Canada

Margaret P. McGarvey - Nov 05
As a child there was nothing better than watching my team, Manchester United, with my Dad, Andy, who played amateur soccer.. With his encouragement I played anytime I could; I loved to tackle (thanks Dad and Nobby) inevitably, that lead to the neighbourhood boys letting me play if I didn't wear my soccer boots..I loved soccer and Manchester United.

I grew up, still watching MU, and there you were George, uniqely talented and, yes, handsome, making awesome plays ... spectacular and riveting displays of athleticism and ballmanship .. Displays of temper and the bad boy image were there but for me it didn't detract from your legendary play on the pitch... Recently, I returned home and saw some of the tabloid fodder ... sadly disquieting.

George, you handsome Irish lad, rest in peace; I'll remember you for the heart stopping moments of your dazzling play and the rush I experienced watching you.

Bea - Nov 05
Rest in peace George. and hopefully your public will see to the planks in their own eyes before trying to sort out the splinter in yours. Let the man enjoy his time in the hereafter without having his demons gossiped about.

Lisa - Nov 05
I am not a great united fan but george best was mention a lot as i was growing up. my mum a big fan and over the years thinking this man must be great but this man was not just great he was the greatest footballer there was and will be missed by everyone

Julia Kirby - Nov 05
George Best, well what can I say? He was the GREATEST footballer on earth. From the day I was 4 I was reading 'Blessed,' 'The good, the bad and the bubbly,' and that other book he has. I am 9 now and I truly miss George. I can't believe he's dead. I thought when I left England it was my worst pain but this is even more hurtful. I miss him so much. George, I hope you have a safe trip to heaven. I'll see you there someday. George is a legend, a true legend. I miss you so much, I went round to Dickie's house in Burren Way and left you flowers. And boy, there's a heck a lot of people who love you. I only found out this you had died in computer class when I was at school. I nearly cried. The teacher asked me a question and I was silent. I shall tell my children about you, and ask them to tell your children. You will always be in our family. Please stay with me. Thank you!

Kelly - Nov 05
You're simply the BEST, better than all the rest
Better than anyone, anyone I've ever met . R.I.P George Best u will be missed by every1 all over the world 4ever and ever an ever.You were so talented and a genuinely nice guy, R.I.P

Jamie Ross - Nov 05
george best was the best football player ever.people think beckhams good and wayne roony but you will never get another football player like george best.he really was the best.

Jackie Walton - Nov 05
To us the fans that did not know him personally.He was one of the all time greats.your gone but will never be forgotten.blessings to your family may they always remember,you were the greatest

Lucy Newton - Nov 05
When I saw you play at Man U I was only ten you were 20. I fell in love with your good looks and cheeky grin.

I always follwed your career and read about you in the papers even though I changed sides and started to support my local team Blackburn Rovers.

I too had a transplant in 2002 and nearly sent you a letter but thought you may never read it or respond. How I wished I had sent the letter.
You will be missed my many but always remembered.
Lucy

Tony Grunberg, Ipswich UK - Nov 05
"RIP Georgie Best"

You will have been so proud when you looked down yesterday & saw the tributes around the world, especially that one in Fratton Park, amongst the hundreds in Belfast and at Sir Matt Busby Way too!

You will be oh so glad to know it is already the good & your football what is being remembered & the 'rest' is being forgotten!

RIP Georgie you do deserve it!

Michael Wilcock - Nov 05
George , you are still the best , matt &jimmy ,are waiting for you, kick off, saturday 3.00 p.m number 11 shirt waiting for you smila heywood red 6ts stretford end right side

Tony Dunn - Nov 05
From 1964 i started to watch manchester city, i used to love going on the belle vue match bus with my friends, i was only nine, and city were up and coming, my best friend who was a red, asked me to come and watch united, i soon had friends calling me turn coat, why, simple GEORGE BEST . i used to watch every move he made, things you can't see on film, because they show the goals,my dad who was a big blue, said duncan edwards was the best player he had seen, but the best i have seen since 1964 is george best,he would have a field day now with the protection players get. so rest in peace george the stick of turn coat was worth it. i run a pub now and people can't understand why i like utd and city, well i am from manchester.

Mark - Nov 05
I started watching United in 1966. George left us breathless every other week. The crowd allways anticipated something when he had the ball. You felt he could allways make something happen. He certainly is the BEST player of his generation.

Shaun Beech - Nov 05
I Emigrated to Canada in 74. Just heard about George Best passing away-what a loss - a great individual and sportsman.

Clive Gates - Calgary Canada - Nov 05
At a time when the first division boasted a galaxy of stars George Best was the brightest of them all. What a talent ! Who could ever forget the way he made great defenders look quite ordinary and the the best goal keepers totaly incompetent ! (just ask Pat Jennings or Gordon Banks).

George you gave us all many great memories and will never be forgotten. Rest in peace

Steven Blair - Nov 05
George Best was in my view the best footballer of his time no one could and never will fill your boots R.I.P belfast boy

Jamie Leetch - Nov 05
George Best was the BEST footballer of all time. RIP George and you will never be forgotten because you were the BEST.

Johnny Kelly - Nov 05
I feel proud and priveleged to have seen the great George Best play once....and what a memory! It was May 1971 as a raw 14 year old that I was brought to Windsor Park on the day he dispocessed Gordon Banks in the home international only for the goal to be disallowed. To this day I believe the goal should have stood. I pray George is in a Better Place.

I will always remember you.

Steven Rea - Nov 05
I remember my Dad telling the story of how my great uncle Bob (Bishop) found a genius, and my what a genius you were. Both sides of the divide worshipped you, and you in return you gave them what they wanted. Pure football. You were a legend, and now the sad thing is that only now will the rest of the world know just how good a footballer you really were.

Richard Harrison - Nov 05
George was one of the best players for manutd and no one will forget him because he was a star for them .

George was simply the best a long side his team mate derek dougan for northern ireland .

LINTON COCHRANE - Nov 05
GOOD BYE[THE BEST] YOU WHERE THE ONLY PLAYER WITH FLAIR ,AND NO OTHER PLAYER COULD HAVE DANCE WITH THE BALL LIKE YOU DID.I KNOW THE LAST YEARS WHERE TOUGH ON YOU BUT I FORGIVE YOU AND IAM SURE THE REST OF THE WORLD DOES.

LINTON COCHRANE [COLERAINE] NOW LIVING IN CANADA...

Chris Montgomery, East Belfast - Nov 05
What a player! Legends never die! You graced the Cregagh Estate, you are the inspiration of future players to come from our wee estate. Well done Geordie! A short life, but at least you enjoyed it.

Rasmus, Allerød, DK - Nov 05
Best, you'r the Best!

Rest in peace!

Andy Galloway - Nov 05
Without our Star from the East, it will not seem like Christmas this year. George - you were a true star and your light has spread far and touched many. You illuminated your profession and you brightened our lives. You may have left us now, but your legacy and your legend will grow forever. You will never be forgotten. While the game of football is played - George Best will always be mentioned.
Thanks !!!

tony - Nov 05
he is gone but not forgotton

MABLONE - Nov 05
i am so SORRY that you passed away.

Hugh Blair - Nov 05
Georgie a timeless legend and the best footballer ever, may you rest in peace.

Miroslav Cicic - Nov 05
George Best - Excellent Sport Man. Best Memories.

Davey Boy, Leeds
You were one in a million, george rip, i just wished you had played for leeds united, goodnight george, godbless.

Roger and Pauline Francis - November '05
Like the song - simply the best and he was the best, george god bless you, god seen you were tired and you needed rest. his garden must be beautiful, he only takes the best.

Citizen X - November '05
Our wonder boy but we neglected to tell him.

Danny Murray - November '05
George Best was the best, he even had the name.

J.Turley - November '05
You were the Best, god bless you.

Stefan And Taylor - November '05
You are a footballing legend we will always remember R.I.P

George - November '05
I saw George Best score the greatest goal that never was when he played for NI against England in 1971. He kicked the ball away from the great Gordon Banks making him look silly. This was typical of the talent that George Best had. Thank you for playing football the way you did. God bless.

Alan Hunter, General Secretary, Irish Football Supporters Association - November '05
Dear Northern Friends, The IFSA expresses sincere condolences to the family of the late and great George Best. The legacy of his brilliance will live forever in the minds and hearts of all sports fans.

Ar deis De, Alan Hunter.

Jensen Gibbs, Ipswich - November '05
I never saw him play live but i do know what a great player he was for the game and thats how he should be remembered.

Raymond Dunmurry - November '05
George best was the best football player from northern ireland.

Hywel - November '05
George was by far the finest footballer of his time, maybe hefore his time. I'd have loved to see George playing in today's game. You'll be sadly missed by all who had the pleasure to see you play. R I P

Kelly - November '05
What a sad loss, u had a great football history and u threw it all away god bless ya r.i.p XXX

Darren - November '05
Hello sorry that u are died it is up setting when i found out at 1:10. i was upset but i wasnt a man u supporter but u was still my star player R,I,P long live best who played his best.

Christine - November '05
Back in the arms of his beloved mother. Playing football with the stars. R.I.P. No more pain.

Matty Hammerton - November '05
George you will never be forgotten, you were one of the greatest ever footballers to play the game and you'll always be remembered and sadly missed R.I.P george.

Ylber Dobruna - 25th November '05
He was grand man who played for everyone, the 25th of november is terrible for football

Richard Woodward - 25th November '05
What a sad loss for a sad but extremely colourful character. He lived life to the full. God Bless you George.

Mary Maher - 25th November '05
God be good to him. he was a lively character who gave passion and dedication to football. He was a legend and will be remembered for being himslef and living live to the full. Condolences to your family and friends.

George Zammit - 25th November '05
George Best is a good player , now you are in heaven and pray for us R.I.P. George Zammit at Qormi Malta

Anon - 25th November '05
I would like to say bye to a great football legend who gave a great spirit to the game.

Adam - 25th November '05
I thought these articles were excellent

Frederick - 25th November '05
This is the most detailed article on one of the best footballers on the planet ''George Best''. He's been a revelation and unfortunately is dead now. Keep up the good work BBC.

Danny Woodvine - 25th November '05
My grandad was fortunate to play alongside George Best. I have seen old videos of him he was a true great and a magician of football and at his best was one of the greatest. I was fortunate to meet him once but i will always remember the day I met George Best. His name will always ring around the ears of football fans and his name described him perfectly George Best was the best.

Rest in Peace

Lauren - 25th November '05
You are going to be dearly missed you were a great footballer and you don't deserve to die especially with all you went through with your alcoholism love me x.

Gav - 25th November '05
George when Pele said you are the best player in the world.....who could argue. I can remember you in your Hibs days, too young for your Man Utd days, but I will always remember my Dad saying; George Best, What a player.....and he was right....God bless you George, may you rest now,....Gav My feelings and deepest sympathy to your loved ones.

Derek Weir - 25th November '05
I feel very sad right now to hear the news that George has passed away. I really hoped that someway somehow he could pull through. As I tried to sleep last night I was thinkI ing about him and really there was a tear in my eye for him. I will be hoping they show some of this football on TVE the Spanish TV station here in Madrid. No doubt I will still be singing his praises to everyone I meet. Goodbye George and safe journey. You done us proud. Sleep in Peace.

Andy Paps - 25th November '05
George Best was the first to be dragged under by the life that youth along with fame and money creates. What a shame - he was such a great character and will be sorely missed both on TV and sitting next to Milan at Fratton Park. RIP Bestie. What a legend.

Mark - 25th November '05
Geordie Best from the Cregagh estate in East Belfast
was the world's greatest ever footballer.

I was too young to see George Best play in his prime for Man Utd and Northern Ireland and had to rely on my father to tell the story of his exploits against Scotland at Windsor and the famous goal out of Gordan Banks hands that never was.

Then in 1988 the chance came to go to his testimonial at Windsor Park and I was over the moon. I was going to see George Best play football – The world’s best footballer.

There were thousands on the Spion Kop at Windsor and I squeezed right up to the fence beside the players exit from the dressing rooms just so I could see the legend close up. Just to be there and to see him play was amazing!

Geordie the Belfast Boy was a genius, a legend, and will ever be remembered as the world’s greatest footballer. Rest in Peace

James – 25th November ‘05
God bless georgie best, the legend himself. inspiration for many and will be missed by more! football genius, nobody wore the green shirt the same way as georgie did! show them how footballs meant to be played in heaven bless. peace xxx

Hope Pinkerton – 25th November ‘05
What a legend ! There's only one Georgie Best...RIP

Evelyn and Brian – 25th November ‘05
Simply the best , there will never be anyone to touch you. You were a genius. It is a sad day for us all

Christine – 25th November ‘05
Back in the arms of his beloved mother. Playing football with the stars. R.I.P. No more pain.

Chris Harris – 25th November ‘05
Most of all a sad day for the Best family, but also for football and fans. George had character as well as talent, not like the automatons that are rolled off the premiership conveyor belt these days. Less than half the talent, quarter of the charisma and ten times the pay packet!!!

RIP God Bless You Georgie, The Belfast Joy.

Frederick - 25th Nov 05
This is the most detailed article on one of the best footballers on the planet ''George Best''. He's been a revelation and unfortunately is dead now. Keep up the good work BBC.

Neil R - 25th Nov 05
Legend

Selim Ileri - 25th Nov 05
he was idol in Turkey. We loved him.

Mike C - 25th Nov '05
He makes me proud to be from Belfast. My dad taught me about him as soon as I was ready to learn about football, and God permitting I want to teach the same things to my son. We'll miss you Georgie Boy

Arthur Smith General Secretary - 25th Nov 05
On behalf of National The Referees' Association I would like offer our condolences to George Best's family.George bought a great deal of pleasure to football fans all over the world and was the greatest footballer of his time.

George will be sadly missed by all who knew and worked with him.

God Bless you George.Rest in Peace.

Raj Chanian - 25th Nov 05
My Dad always said that George Best was sheer brilliance all in one. Arguably better than Pele, and probably one of the first true great superstars of football.

I only caught a brief glimpse of George in the early seventies before he ventured into the States to play with some old time friends. A lifelong supporter of Man Utd, I remember hearing George saying he left the European Championships Final a few minutes before those remarkable great goals, and how he expressed sheer delight to hearing the news on the car radio. He was a great sportsman both on and off field, and he will be genuinely missed by communities all around the world.

Luke - 25th Nov
miss you george best one of the best football players ever to step foot on this earth

Tara Jennifer Lynne McIntyre - 25th November '05
I am writing because although I don't like football I still realise what a legend george best was, he didnt deserve to die at 59. He was still young and still had alot in him. Everyone is sad and my regards go to the family. R.I.P george best.

Chelsea Riann Hill - 25th November '05
I'm writing as a fan of football as a girl I didnt think I would get far in life but I belived that if george could do it then I would. He inspired me from the heart and I will miss him alot. He means so much to me and my dad, R.I.P George xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx.

David, 15, Birmingham - 25th November '05
"God Save The BEST!"

David Papworth - 25th November '05
Georgie Best, Truly Blessed!!

Daniel Phillips - 25th November '05
I think George was a really great man. He was the best footballer in the world and r.i.p.

Scott - 25th November '05
George Best what a legend. I am deeply sorry for the loss of a great footballer and a great person.

David Watson - 25th November '05
The Best there was, the Best there is, the Best there ever will be. A Legend, even to those who never saw him play a game. The legend will always live on.

RIP

David, Belfast - 25th November '05
A hero, a legend, a genius, ours.

Irene Levy - 25th November '05
The greatest - Best remembered, Best player and courageous to admit everything towards the end and donate your organs - Georgie we'll not forget you x.

Rachel, Belfast - 25th November '05
God bless you belfast's hero. Our thoughts are with your family.

Sam Buck - Liverpool fan - 25th November '05
Best Wishes.. to the best player ever ! love you x x x ..

Lozza - 25th November '05
I'll miss him.

Sharon (Sunderland) - 25th November '05
You have inspired many people and have been open and honest about your illness to try and prevent others from suffering the same fate. I hope your passing will be a peaceful one. Thoughts of strength for yourself and your family.

Lynsey Methven, (25), Glasgow Celtic Fan - 25th November '05
Hi, George, just wanted you to know that i'm thinking of you at the sad time, you were the greatest player ever, its just a pity that i wasn't born back then but not to worry there's always videos! I hope you pull through as the world would be a sadder place without you. All my love and best wishes.

David Street - Nov 05
I have never met George and now probably never will. But the first time I saw a match on TV was the 1968 European Cup final and I was so inspired by his goal, that set me up as a football fan forever. A most wonderful talent I wish we could have enjoyed for longer.

Scott Stuart Coulthard - Nov 05
Hi, George! Keep on fighting mate! We're rooting for you and we want you to rally. Keep fighting mate! We love you. A true god in sport - you're a king to your fans! Be lucky, Georgie boy!

Pete Sinclair - Nov 05
George - you'll never be bested. You were the best.
Pete - Newcastle Fan

Peter Owino - Tanzania - Nov 05
the Only thing i wont do is to question Gods work, God is Great he gave us George best now he want him back!, If best will have to go then what we will have to do is wish him to rest in peace, you had a brilliant life and short time of pain may not make you forget that.-
Peter Owino.

Louise Allen - Nov 05
the best football player ever

Jordan Harrop - Nov 05
hope u get better george. u was one of the best players of all time so just keep playing in heaven luv jordan harrop

Chris Harrison - Sydney Aus. - Nov 05
George hang in there please. get through. i think the world of u you are my favorite player of all time. as a child i looked up to u. please dont leave us yet it makes me feel old if u get this. come to sydney australia all the very best keep going chris now living in aussie

Daniel, Italy - November '05
George don't die you are my idol and the god of soccer!!! ...always with you.

Phyllis - November '05
I wish you a speedy recovery Mr George Best !!!! I saw you play at Old Trafford in your prime and your were just MAGIC to look at, it was like a dream every time I went there, one of my brothers use to take me to home games we would leave Dublin on a Friday evening travel all night until we got to Holyhead and took the train through Liverpool and bus it to Old Trafford to watch the games every chance we got, and I have always loved you, I would never let anyone say anthing bad about you, and to this day I am still one of your biggest fans so I really hate to see you so sick so I am praying for a speedy recovery for you and with your family and friends and all your loyal fans praying for you it should be a breeze, and yes it is true, next or should I say standing next to Pele they are both the Worlds Best Footballers!!!!

From seeing George Best first hand I can say that it is certainly is true!!! Get well you Belfast Boy, by the way my first born son's name is George and his Dad is from Belfast, I am from Dublin.

Brian, Argyll - November '05
Thinking about you tonight George keep fighting you were the Best. Brian, Argyll.

David Belkevitz - November '05
Hi, just wanted to say all the best for the great memories of your footballing skills; even the night when you single handedly destroyed my beloved Scotland on a wet tuesday night way back in the days of the home internationals. You walked off the park in Glasgow to a standing ovation from a partisan Scottish crowd, who had just witnessed a genius at his very best. I wish you a speedy recovery George and take care for the future.

Carter, Edinburgh - Nov 05
The comments from Donna Raign dissappoint me, who is she to brand the Irish undisiplined and George Best's brain "underdeveloped".....sometimes naivety knows no bounds, there will always be people who ask "what if?" and formulate half baked theorys about potential etc...when really you should appreciate what you've got...or sadly now, what we had and lost...a blazing star amid a sea of conformity. his name will live on for evermore.

Donna Raigne - Oct 05
He came to play a friendly with his club at Randal's Island NY in the early 1970s - I've a picture with him and a teamate Dunne at the center of the pitch. He seemed so delicate almost feminine looking - but he had it all when it came to his artistry. I recall him saying at some point that he knew his talents being the equal of no other soccer player but was unable to dedicate himself, make the sacrefice necessary for complete glory.

I notice the same being true of the Irish generally - they can't deal with the atta boys and disipline that greatness calls for.

Girls and drugs and such were too much much for his underdeveloped brain - no Pele-like control - a sad story really.

Freda Gillespie - October '05
I first heard of George when I was 10 years old and first saw him play when I was 12 (Northern Ireland V England in 1968). I eventually met him and had my photo taken with him in October 2004 when he appeared on the John Daly show which was filmed at Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn. I will treasure that photo for the rest of my life. I will be 50 next March and my greatest wish is to meet George just one more time. Despite his problems, there has never been a better ambassador for Northern Ireland than George. I wish him a full recovery and hope that his genius is never forgotten. He is, quite justifiably, the greatest footballer who ever lived.

C. Cartwright (stoke- on- Trent) England - June '05
You may say his career was short lived but he was the second most exiting player I ever saw (most exiting Stanley Mathews, even though I only saw him towards the end of his career). Both of them had the same magic touch and you felt excited when they got the ball, because you knew you would see an artist at work.

Tony Fearon, Portadown.
I'll never forget the excitement. I was 8 years old, and my dad was taking me to my first big football match next day, in which I was to see all the stars I'd seen on tv's Match of the Day.
It was N.Ireland V Scotland in Belfast, in 1967. I couldn't sleep the night before. What an awesome display.
Scotland, made up largely of the Celtic team that had won that year's European Cup, simply were mesmerised by Best's brilliance as he danced around their players,popping up everywhere.
Dave Clements scored N.Ireland's goal in the 1-0 win, but if ever a player defeated a team on his own it was Best.

Quite simply I've watched football for 35 years since, all over Europe, and I've never seen an individual display remotely as good. I was also there the following year, when Best had the goal disallowed for allegedly kicking the ball out of England goalkeeper Gordon Banks hands,and in 1969 when he was sent off against Scotland.
I had the good fortune to meet George at Stranmillis in 1992 during the recording of a TV show, and I mentioned that awesome 1967 display against Scotland. He seemed almost shy that someone, anyone would pay him a compliment.
So much for the media image. A true legend, and one I was privileged as a small boy to see play.

Did you play football at the Cregagh Boys Club at the same time as George? Do you remember him as a youngster out in the street practising away from dawn until dusk? Have you ever been lucky enough to see him play? Do you think Brazilian footballer Pele was exaggerating when he described George as "the best player in the world"?