JIMMY HILL’S LEGACY WILL CONTINUE AT THE RICOH ARENA

JIMMY HILL SUITE OPENS AT RICOH ARENA

Jimmy Hill’s legacy will continue at the Ricoh Arena after a conference suite was named in his memory.

Members of his family officially opened the newly-named Jimmy Hill Suite ahead of attending a public memorial service at Coventry Cathedral to honour the former Coventry City manager who led the Sky Blues from the old Third Division to the top flight during the 1960s.

Black and white images of the football innovator from his time with Coventry City will adorn the walls of the newly named Jimmy Hill Suite.

His son, Jamie, daughter, Joanna and their two half-brothers Duncan and Graham visited the Ricoh Arena to see the suite.

Jamie said: “It is a lovely gesture and we are all pleased to visit the Ricoh Arena again to open the suite in my dad’s name.

“The response to his death from Alzheimer’s Disease has been very touching. Having to write a few words for the service at the Cathedral has been a great chance to reflect on his life and career.

“It is easy to forget how famous he was in his hey-day because he was broadcasting to 20 million people every Saturday evening on Match of the Day.

“I had the pleasure of seeing Coventry City’s last home game despite the result and enjoyed great hospitality at the Ricoh Arena.

“It is clear my dad meant a great deal to people in the city and still does which is highlighted by the naming of the Jimmy Hill Suite.”

David Armstrong, Group Chief Executive Officer of Wasps, said the Jimmy Hill Suite was a lasting tribute to a man who had had such a huge influence on the club which remained today.

He said: “Jimmy’s statue outside the Ricoh Arena is a fitting reminder of his indelible mark on Coventry City and the city of Coventry as well as the wider footballing community. The Ricoh Arena wanted to further recognise his contribution by naming the suite after him.

“The images of Jimmy around the Jimmy Hill Suite from his time as manager and chairman are a fantastic reminder of his achievements.

“I had the chance to meet Jimmy and hear his transformational journey here at Coventry City in his own words, so I appreciate what a huge impact he had.”