 THOUSANDS of people are expected to attend the funeral service of Everton FC legend Alan Ball tomorrow. The 61-year-old member of the victorious 1966 World Cup squad was found dead at his home in Hook Lane, Warsash, Hants, last week. He died of a heart attack while putting out a small fire which had broken out in a compost heap in his garden, according to his family. The funeral service, which is to be a non-black tie event, will be held at Winchester Cathedral at 1pm.. Mourners will be led by Ball's son Jimmy, 31, and daughters Mandy Byrne, 39, and Keely Allan, 35. Their mother, Ball's wife Lesley, died three years ago from cancer. Figures from across the world of football are also expected to attend. The family have requested no flowers but that any donations be made to the Bobby Moore Fund. Hampshire Police say thousands of people are expected to pay their respects both inside the cathedral and in the grounds. Sergeant Neil Jenkins said: "It is clear that many people wish to attend the service to pay their respects to Alan Ball, and the event may attract thousands to Winchester. "Everyone coming to the service should plan their journey carefully and allow plenty of time for travel. "We would also advise that noone attempt to drive into the city centre, due to the large amount of congestion that may occur. "Our main aim is to ensure that the service goes according to plan in a respectful and safe manner." Ball won 72 caps for his country in a 10-year career and he made a total of 743 league appearances for Blackpool, Everton, Arsenal and Southampton. He later managed seven clubs including Manchester City, Southampton and Portsmouth. In later years, he was a regular on the guest speaker circuit and a keen golfer. A post-mortem examination showed that Ball died of natural causes. All this week, the Liverpool Daily Post is showing highlights of Alan Ball's last speech in Liverpool, made to the Lord Taverner's in November, on our website.
Visit www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk to see Alan talking about playing with Nobby Stiles for England.
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