A CHILDHOOD friend of Sir Bobby Robson is looking to sell a pair of football boots believed to have been owned by the former England, Barcelona and Newcastle United manager when he was seven.

Thomas Robson, 85, grew up in Langley Park, County Durham, playing football with Sir Bobby and another talented youngster, Billy Bell.

Mr Robson, who now lives in Evenwood, near Bishop Auckland, said Bell and Sir Bobby went to play for Fulham together when they were both 16.

But while Sir Bobby stayed and began an illustrious career which ended with him becoming one of the best-loved names in world football, Bell returned to the North-East.

Bell, who eventually became manager of the Wallsend Boys Club, is believed to have been given the box-fresh boots by Sir Bobby to give to his son.