Local Football Heroes Celebrated in New World Cup Exhibition

By Maruf Ahmed

Barking and Dagenham’s proud connection to England’s greatest footballing triumph is being celebrated in a new exhibition at Valence House Museum, marking 60 years since England’s historic 1966 World Cup victory.

The exhibition highlights four footballing figures with strong links to the borough who played important roles in England’s journey to glory.

Sir Alf Ramsey, from Dagenham, guided England with innovative tactics, while Barking-born captain Bobby Moore led the team with calm authority. Dagenham’s Martin Peters scored in the World Cup Final, while fellow Dagenham hero Jimmy Greaves contributed throughout England’s campaign.

The exhibition showcases a fascinating collection of memorabilia and artefacts, including a statue of Bobby Moore lifting the Jules Rimet Trophy, on loan from the National Football Museum in Manchester.

Visitors can also see an original flag flown at Wembley during the 1966 World Cup Final, an original final match ticket, a signed photograph of Moore with the Jules Rimet Trophy and a World Cup Willie sweet tin signed by Martin Peters.

A special painting of Bobby Moore, created for the exhibition by local artist Lena Lim, is also on display.

Councillor Simon Perry, Cabinet Member for Culture, Heritage and Leisure, said the exhibition celebrates the remarkable contribution local people made to one of English sport’s greatest achievements.

Sixty years on, the exhibition offers residents and football fans the opportunity to revisit the unforgettable 1966 triumph while celebrating Barking and Dagenham’s unique place in football history.

The exhibition runs until Friday 27 November at Valence House Museum.

For more information, visit the Valence House Museum website.