A MEMORIAL garden dedicated to the late Sir Bobby Robson was unveiled yesterday a stones throw from his beloved St James' Park.

The garden features five stones depicting different aspects of Sir Bobby's remarkable life, including a miner's lamp in reference to his coal mining roots, his portrait against the backdrop of a football pitch and some of the cups he won throughout his career.

Frank Sinatra's My Way was played at the end of yesterday's opening ceremony, a nod to the former England and Newcastle manager's love of the legendary crooner.

Members of Sir Bobby's family were joined at the event by Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew ahead of the club's match against West Bromwich Albion.

Mr Pardew said of the garden: "It's beautiful, stunning."

Former Newcastle United player Peter Beardsley and current assistant manager John Carver also attended.

Sir Bobby's widow, Lady Elsie Robson said: "My husband took great pride in his own garden at home and my family and I feel this is a very fitting memorial to him.

"We're very grateful to everyone who has helped make this garden a reality and look forward to seeing it develop and grow over the years.

"I hope people enjoy spending time there remembering Bob with affection."

Their son, Andrew Robson added: "The family are delighted to be here.

"I think my father would be amused and at the same time amazed that this garden has been opened in his memory in the shadow of St James' Park."

The garden was created with the aim of providing a peaceful space for reflection in the heart of Newcastle city centre, and to celebrate Sir Bobby's life, including his work for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

The charity was launched by Sir Bobby in March 2008 to help cancer patients in the North-East, and recently saw its fundraising total pass £3m.

Coun David Faulkner, leader of Newcastle City Council, said: "Sir Bobby was such an inspirational person to everyone and was a well respected ambassador for this region. I am delighted this work is now being unveiled.

"It's a tremendous achievement and I am sure it will be enjoyed by future generations of the football fans everywhere when they visit Newcastle."