Alan Ball MBE was loved and adored by every club he played for or managed – and Pompey are no exception.
With two spells as Blues boss – between 1984-89 and 1998-99 – Alan had family cherished many happy memories from his time at Fratton Park.
The highlight undoubtedly arrived at the end of the 1986/87 campaign when promotion was secured to the top-flight following two near-misses.
Following the huge success of last year’s charity dinners to mark 10 years since the passing of the World Cup winner, DDV Productions and the Bally Family are pleased to announce they are bringing ‘Remembering Bally’ to the Kings Theatre at 7.30pm on Friday, September 21.
The show will feature many special guests, including members of the promotion-winning Pompey side, along with many of Alan’s other former colleagues and friends.
The night also features the man himself, with extracts from one of his last after-dinner speeches.
We will look back on his career as a player, a manager and, of course, that glorious summer of 1966, when Alan was not only a World Cup winner, but also man-of-the-match in that historic final at Wembley.
Special guests will include Vince Hilaire, Alan Knight, Noel Blake, Dave Waterman and Jimmy Ball, with more to announced.
Alan’s daughter Keely Allen said: “Portsmouth FC holds a very special place in the hearts of every Ball family member. We always look back with very fond memories.
“The promotion to the old first division wasn’t without its ups and downs – it was a true battle and one that a fantastic team and manager won together. For Dad and the family, they were special times.
"Portsmouth FC holds a very special place in the hearts of every Ball family member."
“Dad always loved the fight and with Portsmouth, he did just that – not once, but twice. Pompey are often mentioned in the Ball household and it is always with great fondness.
“The fans took Bally to their hearts because like everything he did, he gave them 100 per cent commitment and his spirit was infectious.
“I can speak on behalf of my brother Jimmy and sister Mandy when I say how amazing it will be to come back to a city that meant so much to Dad and celebrate his life.
“It will be an incredible and no doubt emotional night, but one we are very much looking forward to. Play up Pompey!”
The night will also help to raise funds for three amazing causes: The Oakley Waterman Foundation, Pompey in the Community and the Portsmouth FC Academy.
Tickets are on sale now for £25 or £45 with a VIP ‘meet and greet’. Call the box office on (023) 9282 8282 to book your place or visit www.kingsportsmouth.co.uk