Channel 4 is to broadcast a special edition of the 1966 FIFA World Cup Final In Colour in aid of Alzheimer’s Society.
In partnership with SunLife, the broadcast of England’s historic 4-2 victory over West Germany at Wembley Stadium on 30 July 1966 will raise awareness of dementia and Alzheimer’s Society, supporting people living with dementia and their families.
Comedian David Baddiel introduces the broadcast, with Sir Geoff Hurst, England’s hattrick hero on that famous day in ‘66, reflecting on the match and remembering his teammates who developed dementia. Contributions also come from current and former England stars including men’s captain, Harry Kane.
1966 FIFA World Cup Final In Colour (1×140’) was commissioned for Channel 4 by Joe Blake-Turner, Commissioning Editor, Sport. The broadcast is produced by Whisper and Final Replay. Anton Sensky is the producer/director for Whisper, and the executive producers are Colin Hopkins and Neil Canetty-Clarke for Final Replay and Harry Allen and Geoff Riding for Whisper.
1966 FIFA World Cup Final In Colour is to air on Channel 4 and Channel 4 Streaming on Saturday 6thJune.
Joe Blake Turner, Commissioning Editor for Channel 4 Sport, said: “As we approach a World Cup summer, there’s no better time to relive England’s one and only victory with this special broadcast that will also raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s Society. It’s a privilege to feature some of the charity’s ambassadors Sir Geoff Hurst and David Baddiel for such an important cause.”
Neil Canetty-Clarke, Executive Producer, said: “60 years ago, 32 million people, the largest ever audience in UK history, watched England win the 1966 FIFA World Cup Final in black and white – we hope millions more will watch it in colour on Channel 4 on June 6th to celebrate the anniversary and support Alzheimer’s Society.”
Anton Sensky, producer/director for Whisper, said: “This was a deeply personal mission. As primary carer for my mother, it was both emotional and cathartic to share this journey with David Baddiel, Sir Geoff Hurst and the Alzheimer’s Society. At Whisper, we tell stories that truly matter, and it was a privilege to partner with Channel 4 on such an important and historic project.”
Michelle Dyson CB, Chief Executive Officer at Alzheimer’s Society, said: “We are so grateful to be part of this collaboration, which will allow people to experience the historic 1966 World Cup final in full colour, while also raising vital funds for Alzheimer’s Society. It’s heartbreaking that many former players – and indeed fans – of the legendary 1966 World Cup team have been affected by dementia. Their stories are a powerful reminder of why we must keep raising awareness and the funds needed to support people living with this devastating condition today while also working towards a better future.”
Image supplied by Channel 4
Jon Creamer
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