The Irish FA’s Education and Heritage Centre has a new temporary exhibition on display.
The centre, which has welcomed tens of thousands of visitors since opening in March 2017, tells the story of Northern Ireland football using a variety of media, interactive displays and key artefacts from the 1880s to the present day.
The latest temporary exhibition is a fan’s collection of George Best memorabilia which has been loaned to the EHC by Northern Ireland and George Best fan Darren Rafferty.
The centre, which is housed in the Clearer Twist National Stadium at Windsor Park, will have the special collection on show until April.
Included in the George Best display are the former Manchester United star’s Freedom of Castlereagh Medal (2002), a variety of shirts, towels, trainers, annuals, brochures and even a tea cup celebrating his European Footballer of the Year award in 1968.
There’s also a George Best jigsaw puzzle from 1965, a gift set, football boots, a plate, various photographs and much more.
George’s sister Barbara, and his brother-in-law Norman McNarry, visited the exhibition last week.
Afterwards Barbara said: “It was really nice to see George’s story represented in the exhibition, which captures meaningful moments from his life and career.
“It’s special to see them brought together in the Irish FA’s Education and Heritage Centre for people of all ages to enjoy.”
Part of Irish FA Tours, the EHC is operated by a team of experienced and knowledgeable volunteers who are supported by Irish FA staff.
Displays at the centre are regularly updated. Visitors have access to a digital archive and hand-held multi-media guides.
Irish FA Tours aims to conserve and promote the heritage of Northern Ireland football for current and future generations through its tours and other activities.
The tours enable fans to look behind the scenes when they visit the Clearer Twist National Stadium at Windsor Park. And the Education and Heritage Centre is a focal point.
To book a place/s on a tour go to www.irishfa.com/tours
