FURD
An exciting range of educational materials is being launched by FURD to coincide with the 125th Anniversary of Arthur Wharton signing for Rotherham Town in 1889 - and so becoming the world's first black professional footballer. FURD have developed a new website - www.arthurwharton.info - through which a wide array of educational resources can be accessed free of charge.
The launch of the new site is the culmination of a package of educational materials produced by FURD's Arthur Wharton Heritage Project, which includes:
- 'The Arthur Wharton Story' documentary film
- A new Arthur Wharton exhibition
- A 40 page booklet
- PowerPoint presentations for use in school assemblies and lessons
- One of the most exciting new resources is the production of a comic book 'Arthur Wharton: Victorian Sporting Superstar' which retells Arthur's story from footballer to miner through the eyes of his granddaughter, Sheila Leeson.
'2014 will undoubtedly be Arthur's Year, the time when his amazing story will reach millions of people in the UK alone', commented Howard Holmes from FURD.
'A number of celebratory events are planned, including separate statues of the great pioneer outside Rotherham United's New York Stadium and at the FA's St George's Park HQ, near Burton. We are encouraging fans, football authorities, clubs, youth and community groups and voluntary organisations to host events in celebration of Arthur's life and achievements', added Holmes.
The new website will carry details of all celebratory events. The educational materials were developed by FURD thanks to support from the Heritage Lottery Fund and the PFA.
'Victorian Sporting Superstar' is available from the Sheffield United club shop at Bramall Lane or via enquiries@furd.org for £2. Discounted rates are available for bulk orders. It was also reproduced inside the Sheffield United v Carlisle match programme of 12th March 2014 which is on sale for the normal programme price of £3. Follow the link to OPublishing to purchase a copy of the programme.
Contact Howard Holmes for more details of Arthur's Year at howard@furd.org.