Plaque for football legend Ball

Ball was awarded the MBE in 2000

A plaque to remember the England footballer Alan Ball has been unveiled at his birthplace.

His relatives and members of the public gathered at the house in Brookhouse Lane, Farnworth, Greater Manchester.

The World Cup winner, who played for Blackpool, Everton, Arsenal, Southampton and Bristol Rovers, died of a heart attack last year aged 61.

The blue plaque has been funded by his former clubs and arranged by the Bolton and District Civic Trust.

Ball, who was awarded an MBE in 2000, collapsed outside his home in Warsash, near Southampton, after tackling a bonfire in April 2007.

He was the youngest member - and man of the match - of the 1966 World Cup England team, and went on to win 72 caps.

Asked whether she expected the honour, Mr Ball's sister, Carolyn, replied: "Never, it's absolutely fantastic."

"It has been a fantastic day. He would be so proud. We feel really honoured - all of the family do."