Sir Bobby Charlton unveils new tribute to Busby Babe and Dudley hero Duncan Edwards

Hundreds of fans stood in the rain in Priory Park where the young Duncan Edwards honed his skills to watch the ceremony. Some had waited for more than three hours to make sure of a good view.

Six members of the player's family were guests of honour at the unveiling to coincide with what would have been his 80th birthday.

The England and Manchester United star, who had been marked out for greatness after winning consecutive titles with United, died of the injuries he sustained in the Munich Air Disaster in February 1958.

Aged just 21, he had already played 151 games for the club and become the youngest player, at 18, to be capped by England.

Another cousin Dusky Edwards, 47, of Derbyshire, said: "The town of Dudley has done Duncan, and all his family, proud. It is wonderful to see in what high esteem he is still held by people."

First cousin Laurence Brownhill, 73, recalled Edwards, who was seven years older, calling at his home in Vicar Street.

"You always knew when Duncan was coming because you'd hear him kicking a tin can or an old brick as he approached. His mother used to tell to stop ruining his shoes."

Sir Bobby, 78, stepped in to perform the honours in place of Dudley-born Sam Allardyce, who pulled out after losing his job as England manager during the week.

Dudley North MP Ian Austin, who helped organise the event, told Sir Bobby: "We are all delighted that you have been prepared to travel to Dudley to unveil our tribute to Duncan Edwards. The way you played, and your selfless contribution, is an inspiration to millions."

Speaking of Duncan Edwards, he told the crowd: "He grew up just around the corner in Elm Road, he went to Priory School, he played football in this park and what he shows you is that we, from Dudley, we're as good as anyone."

Clearly moved but looking frail, Sir Bobby, who was with his wife Norma, said only 'thank you' after pulling the cord to reveal the plaque.

He later delighted fans who had waited in the rain till after a private reception following the unveiling by signing autographs.

Dudley councillor Dave Tyler, who, along with Mr Austin, has helped secure the blue plaque, said: "Duncan was the first Dudley lad to make it to the big time as far as football was concerned. Talk to people in Dudley and the wider Black Country and everybody is so proud that one of their own was such a good player.

"He was revered in football circles and it just makes you wonder what would have happened if he had been alive to fulfil his wonderful career. He would have been an England regular for many years and an all-time great." Councillor Tyler said the blue plaque would be another fitting tribute the the Dudley hero.

He said: "I like to think if good players have made a difference to their area, we should do something for them.

"He is a national treasure.

"We hope people will visit the plaque and have their picture taken and it can become a focal point for Dudley."