A stunning mural depicting five iconic captains from Sunderland AFC’s proud history was unveiled at the Stadium of Light on Saturday
The Captain’s Mural was commissioned by the Sunderland AFC supporters collective, Red and White Army, with funding provided by The Fans for Diversity initiative - a joint campaign by The Football Supporters' Federation, Kick it Out, and The Charlie Hurley Statue Fund, a group of supporters who raised funds to commemorate Charlie's services to Sunderland AFC.
Located in the stadium’s newly named Roker End, the artwork by Illuminations Wall Art depicts five iconic captains from Sunderland AFC's rich and proud history – Bobby Kerr, Charlie Hurley, Kevin Ball, Gary Bennett and Horatio ‘Raich’ Carter. It also features famous Sunderland landmarks, such as the Wearmouth Bridge.
Speaking about the mural, Paul Nelson from the Red and White Army said: “We hope this will be the first of many artworks that will continue to develop an even greater sense of identity, history and tradition all around the stadium. Whilst it's a supporter-led project we could not have done this without Sunderland AFC, who have not only supported the initiative but truly embraced the idea. I'd also like to say a huge thanks to the FSF, Kick it Out and The Charlie Hurley Statue Fund for their support.
Former captain and club ambassador Kevin Ball said: “The artwork is absolutely stunning and huge credit must go to Red and White army for their hard work in getting the project off the ground and to The Fans for Diversity initiative for their support.
“To be part of this club’s history is something I will never take for granted and to see myself up there amongst some of the greats is a very proud moment for me and my family.”