richardfrosty – Richard Frost – Manchester

Original publication date: February 2005
Outlet: Palatinate

Durham had a brush with sporting royalty recently as the inimitable Chris Kamara himself graced Walkabout with his presence. Billed as the star attraction on the day Arsenal hosted Manchester United in the Premiership, the Sky Sports presenter certainly didn’t disappoint.

Kamara made the appearance in support of Durham University Football Club, of which his son Ben is a member. But the obligatory raffle, which even featured Thierry Henry’s shirt from the clash, paled into insignificance next to Kamara’s half-time analysis. The defensive hardman – a member of the 1992 championship-winning Leeds United side – answered a wide-ranging series of questions from a packed Walkabout crowd, coming out vehemently in support of Ashley Cole (‘the best left-back in the country’) while assessing the latest Chelsea transfer saga, before proceeding to lavish praise upon Ryan Giggs’ goal.

After the final whistle blew on the Red Devils’ epic 4-2 victory, meanwhile, Kamara declared ‘that was the best match of the season’ to a cheer from the onlookers. However, his ensuing claim ‘I think we can all agree that United were worthy winners’ went down rather less well, as most of the crowd had adopted Arsenal colours for the night.

But he won back the doubters by continuing the entertainment far into the night. The former footballer, manager, radio and television commentator added another string to his bow by putting in a stellar singing performance alongside ‘the best band in Yorkshire’ OKTC. Producing more cheese than your average dairy, the band didn’t quite live up to such extravagant billing. But Kamara & co did do more than enough to get the remaining punters on the dancefloor.

In particular, they created the night’s standout moment as the Arsenal-supporting Geordies belatedly recalled their one true allegiance. Collectively straining their vocal chords to deliver a rousing rendition of Cheer up Peter Reid, for one song Kamara and the Durham crowd were perfectly united in abuse of the ex-Sunderland manager.

Chris Kamara, we salute you!