George Best was one of the greatest footballers ever to have walked the Earth - an absolute legend. His ability as an all-round player was, and still is, unsurpassed. He was highly skilful, a tough tackler and great in the air. As well as being an exceptionally gifted sportsman, George also had a unique gift when it came to people. His open and friendly nature meant that others were naturally drawn to him and he always had time to get to know anyone and everyone.Perhaps because of this, George Best reached so many people. As well as the legions of football fans who watched, awestruck, as he played, he also touched the hearts of everyone with whom he came in contact on a day-to-day basis; from club managers to the groundsmen at Old Trafford, Bestie had time for them all; it seems that almost everyone has a story to tell about him!Bernie Smith is an avid collector of everything to do with the late, great man and Maureen Hunt worked in the newspaper industry for over twenty years. From banknotes to team photographs, to signed shirts and even underwear, there is not much out there relating to George that they don't know about or possess! While gathering memorabilia they discovered that almost every keepsake, souvenir or trophy has a humorous, heart-warming or poignant story attached to it. Piecing together these gems of history, they have complied a fitting tribute to a genuine icon.Take, for example, the incredible journey of the pair of limited edition 'George Best' boots that ended up on a stall at Brick Lane market in London to eventually become the treasured possession of a man who idolised him; or the boy whose house backed onto the United training ground and who would jump over the fence to stand at the back of the nets to watch the Best magic and act as a ball boy when necessary; or even a gold thong, signed by George himself, that was bought at auction and left in a drawer...until now!Packed with anecdotes and rare photographs, this delightful book will be a welcome addition to any Best fan's collection and is a wonderful way to commemorate the man who was who both hero and friend to so many people.'The genius of George Best on the football field is well documented, as is the celebrity lifestyle which such genius often attracts. This book gives an insight into the much less well known human side of his life and the many unsung acts of kindness which were so typical and which endeared him to everyone who was fortunate enough to know or meet him. I count myself privileged to be amongst that number' - Doug Ellis, President Emeritus - Aston Villa Football Club'George Best was a fine fellow to share company with off the football field. It doesn't surprise me that the stories in this book celebrate the real side of George. George had a snooker table in his house and he loved to play the game. He was one of the nicest people you would ever wish to meet, with a great sense of humour' - Dennis Taylor, 1985 Embassy World Snooker Champion and fellow Belfast boy'Besite can only be described in one word - fantastic! - Ron 'Chopper' Harris

George Best, born on 22nd May 1946, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK, was a professional footballer, who played as a winger, regarded as one of the greatest players and dribblers of all time. Best's playing style combined pace, skill, balance, feints, two-footedness, goalscoring and the ability to easily beat defenders. He was once quoted as saying, "Pelé called me the greatest footballer in the world. That is the ultimate salute to my life."

One of the most famous footballers of all time, George Best is an icon to football fans all over the world. He lived a tumultuous life, and died in 2005 after battling with alcoholism. He is someone who has crossed over into legend status, with his personal life sometimes overshadowing his footballing prowess. There have been many books written about George, but here, Michael Parkinson combines his professional and personal knowledge of George with his classic and much loved writing style to produce a new, and interesting biography of a football and cultural icon.

George Best was a phenomenon of British sport. Blessed with an exceptional footballing gift, he was the first celebrity footballer and to many he remains the greatest player ever. This is a pictorial celebration of his playing career.

George Best is one of the most popular players in English football. In this book, he recalls the moments in his life that have given him the greatest pleasure, the banter, pranks and anecdotes that make up a life in football that is as high-spirited and fun-loving as it is successful.

In THE BEST OF TIMES George Best recalls the moments in his life that have given him the greatest pleasure, the loudest laughs, the banter, pranks and anecdotes that make up a life in football that is as high-spirited and fun-loving as it is successful. Managers, players, referees, and officials from all walks of the game and of course his beloved Manchester United, from the Busby-Babes to Ryan Giggs, feature in this affectionate, generous and hilarious look at football from one of the greatest and most well-loved players the game has ever produced.