A former Manchester City goalkeeper who suffered racist abuse before going on inspire youngsters will be coming to Bury tomorrow, Saturday.
Alex Williams, known as the country's first modern black goalkeeper, played 125 games for City between 1980 to 1986 before retiring aged 25 due to injury.
He went on to inspire "back street kids" like him through his pioneering community work and in 2002 he was awarded an MBE for services to young people.
Williams led the City in Community programme for 33 years before retiring at the end of August last year.
One of his last moves was to present the Premier League trophy to City captain Ilkay Gundogan in May last year.
As well as being a "man of the people", he is also a friend of stars associated with the Champions League and Premier League winners.
Pals include Oasis brothers Noel and Liam Gallagher, both "star-struck teenagers" when Williams was their hero during his playing days.
Williams, 62, has released his autobiography You Saw Me Standing Alone, part of a lyric which features in City anthem Blue Moon.
And will be at Waterstones at the Mill Gate Shopping Centre in Bury on Saturday from 11am to 1pm to sign copies of the book as part of a tour.
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Speaking to City about the book last year, he said: “Being a Moss Side boy, it was a dream come true for me to represent the club I supported all my life. I am proud to now share that story.
“A large part of this includes the development of City in the Community - we should all as City fans and staff be very proud of what the club has achieved locally and globally in changing the lives of hundreds and thousands of people, for the better.
“Finally, a massive thanks to Manchester City football club, and all our brilliant fans from all over the world.
"The club and fans have always welcomed me with open arms, and I am proud to have represented them for so long.”
Part of the proceeds from the book, priced at £15, will be donated to City in the Community.
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