Kevin Keegan gets moving Ladies Day tribute as Newcastle Racecourse honours United legend

The crowd at Ladies Day in Newcastle had their own chance to pay tribute to Kevin Keegan on Saturday afternoon

Kevin Keegan gets moving Ladies Day tribute as Newcastle Racecourse(Image: ChronicleLive)

Almost a week on from his death, the late and great Kevin Keegan received his own tribute at Ladies Day in Newcastle on Saturday. And, as his image and some moving words appeared on a big screen, the crowd’s reaction spokes volumes.

Shortly before 3pm on Monday afternoon, Kevin’s passing was confirmed in a statement from his family which read: ‘”It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75.

“Kevin had been battling cancer and was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments. A double Ballon D’or winner, Kevin was a much loved husband, father and grandfather. The family would like to thank Kevin’s incredible medical team for all their support. “This is a hugely difficult time and they are requesting space and privacy.”

No more was the strength of love and admiration for King Kev felt that in Newcastle city centre. It took no time at all for fans to start arriving at his old stomping ground of St James’ Park to lay flowers in remembrance. By Friday morning, the pavements in front of the stadium were covered with floral tributes, photos, old NUFC shirts and scarves, with the club announcing to fans that they’d begin moving all the tributes on Tuesday.

One of the biggest events in Newcastle’s calendar every year it felt right for Ladies Day to pay tribute to Kevin, with many United supporters in the crowd up at the Racecourse in Gosforth. Before the first race of a packed afternoon got underway at 1.10pm, an image of Kevin appeared on screen right at the centre of the track, along with the words: ‘Everyone at Newcastle Racecourse is saddened by the passing of Kevin Keegan.

‘A true North East icon, his legacy will live on for generations. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and all those mourning his loss.

The message ended with ‘Rest in Peace’ along with black and white hearts, as the Ladies Day crowd gave the man himself a well earned round of applause and chants of ‘KEEGAN! KEEGAN!’ were also heard.