“Big Ron” Atkinson to host sports evening in Lincoln in November

Outspoken former football manager and TV pundit, Ron Atkinson will share his stories of life on and off the pitch at a sports dinner in Lincoln next month.

“Big Ron” will host the talk on November 27 at the Holiday Inn Sports Bar on Brayford Wharf, with money raised from the evening donated to the Birchwood Colts junior football club.

Known for his distinctive turns of phrase, affectionately dubbed “Big Ronisms” or “Ronglish”, Ron will discuss his spell as boss of Manchester United between 1981 and 1986, and other stints at high-profile clubs such as Aston Villa, Sheffield Wednesday and Atletico Madrid.

Throughout his time in management, he was renowned for his gold jewellery, holidays in the sun, and unusual transfer dealings, which once included selling a player in return for a case of Moet and Chandon champagne.

In his last managerial position at Nottingham Forest, he famously climbed into the wrong dugout in his first game in charge, much to the amusement of football fans to this day.

As a broadcaster, Big Ron’s iconic utterances such as “early doors” and “you would have put your mortgage on him scoring there”, have fallen into common usage in describing action on the pitch.

Other comments such as “He must be lightning slow”, “Well, either side could win it, or it could be a draw”, and “I never comment on referees and I’m not going to break the habit of a lifetime for that prat”, have all added to his legendary reputation.

The evening will include a three course meal, a talk and question and answer session with Ron, and a live auction of some great sporting memorabilia.

There are also VIP tickets available so guests can share a glass of champagne with Ron prior to the event.

Tickets are limited and cost £49 standard or £69 for the VIP package.

To book call Gemma on 01522 544244 or email [email protected].