THE first football shirts left in tribute to the late football legend Sir Bobby Robson have been distributed to children in some of the world’s poorest countries.

Following Sir Bobby’s death in July last year, fans were moved to leave about 6,000 replica shirts at the grounds of his former clubs, including Newcastle United, Ipswich Town, West Bromwich Albion and Fulham.

The shirts, many of which were emblazoned with personal messages to the former England manager, have since been collected and are being distributed around the world by a number of charities.

The first shirts have been delivered to Gambia, where they are being used by The Association For Child Education, and a second delivery has been made to a project that helps street children in Liberia.

Sir Bobby’s younger son, Mark Robson, said: “It’s truly amazing to hear the stories about how much a simple piece of football kit means to these children.

“I’m very much looking forward to helping deliver some of these tribute items so I can see for myself the difference it is making.

“We are very touched that so many people thought so highly of him. I’m sure my dad, above all people, would be very happy knowing these children are enjoying playing and following football because they have a football shirt of their own.”

Derrick Williams, founder of the charity KitAid, said: “We’re really pleased that the first shipment of Sir Bobby Robson shirts has arrived in Gambia and the reaction from the children who received them was superb.

“They love anything to do with football in the UK and they are now all following the English teams with even more interest.”

■ To make a donation to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, visit sirbobbyrobson foundation.org.uk or send a cheque to Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, PO Box 307, Heaton NE7 7QG.