Golden tribute to football hero

The egg was designed by Sarah Faberge, whose great grandfather Carl was famed for the precious jewellery he fashioned for the Russian tsars.

On what would have been George Best's 61st birthday on Tuesday, the display in his name will be launched.

The egg follows a similar sporting tribute to Jimmy Johnstone of Celtic.

Jeff Healey, a film maker, was instrumental in bringing that tribute about and, when the idea for a similar project for Best was mooted, he was happy to help.

"We were making a film about Jimmy five years ago. He was suffering from Motor Neurone Disease.

"Sarah Faberge was so inspired by his fight and his spirit that she wanted to make an egg in his honour.

"It was a huge success and helped make the last years of his life more comfortable."

Jeff said the egg also made people more aware of MND.

When he was approached by Geprge Best Carryduff Manchester United Supporters' Club about a second egg, this time in honour of Best, he was unsure.

"I talked to Jimmy and he said: 'Don't be so daft. It's George Best, he's a pal of mine, do it!'

"My boyhood heroes ganged together and dropped me in it," he joked.

The eggs are worth about £10,000. One of the George Best Faberge eggs has already made £28,000 at auction.

The money raised goes to the George Best Foundation which raises money for local football and research into liver disease and alcoholism.

"If you can raise some money and charity will benefit, then why not," said Jeff.

John Dempsey from the supporters' club said a total of 68 eggs had been made.

"The first one was given to us for free and it made £28,000, so that was a great stepping stone for us," he said.

The eggs are for sale to interested parties with all profits going to the foundation.

In past times, Faberge created eggs to honour Admiral Nelson and Thomas Jefferson.

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George Best Foundation
Jimmy Johnstone
Jeff Healy
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