Family so proud of film about Duncan Edwards

Relatives of Black Country football legend Duncan Edwards have spoken of their pride that a major television drama will chronicle the player's final days.

The film, called United, follows events leading up to the Munich air disaster which killed eight Manchester United players, including the 21-year-old, in 1958.

Pirates of the Caribbean actor Sam Claflin will play Dudley-born Mr Edwards in the film alongside former Doctor Who star David Tennant who will portray team coach Jimmy Murphy.

Relatives of Mr Edwards today said they could not wait to see the film due to be screened on BBC Two next year.

The film focuses on the Busby Babes, named after manager Matt Busby, the fateful air crash which decimated the team and how the side recovered in the aftermath of the tragedy.

Duncan Edwards died of his injuries 15 days after the plane carrying the young squad skidded off the runway while attempting to take off after refuelling. Twenty-two people were killed in total.

A statue has been placed in his honour in Dudley Market Place and his grave in Dudley Cemetery is still visited by fans.

His first cousin Keith Edwards, aged 73, of Arley, near Coventry, said the Busby Babes were still the greatest footballing side ever. Mr Edwards regularly visits the footballer's grave along with his brother John, aged 76, and their nephew Lawrence.

"It is only fitting a film like this is made in their honour and we are really looking forward to seeing it," Keith Edwards said.

"I have only just heard it is being made and I was really pleased and proud.

"The fact the Busby Babes, including Duncan, are still remembered and loved by fans to the extent this production is even being made is very moving.

"I am really pleased it is being made by the BBC and can't wait to see it on television myself. We are in full support of this and think it is a really good idea"

Mr Edwards admitted he did not know the actor playing his relative in the film but was interested to see his performance.