British Football giant Sir Booby Robson died today after a long and hard battle with cancer. He was 76.

Sir Robson’s family issued this  statement:

“It is with great sadness that it has been announced today that Sir Bobby Robson has lost his long and courageous battle with cancer,”

“He died very peacefully this morning at his home in County Durham with his wife and family beside him.

“Sir Bobby’s funeral will be private and for family members only. A thanksgiving service in celebration of Sir Bobby’s life will be held at a later date for his many friends and colleagues.”

Robert William Robson, the son of a County Durham miner, was born in Sacriston on February 18 1933 and grew up in nearby Langley Park, a pit village on the outskirts of Durham City.

The popular and garrulous coach, who was given a knighthood in 2002 for his services to football, was diagnosed with cancer five times since 1991 and had continued to work until November 2007.

Sir Bobby is survived by his wife Lady Elsie and their three children, Andrew, Paul and Mark.

According to the Wall Street Journal, Sir Bobby’s family said they will hold a private funeral service for him.

“A thanksgiving service in celebration of Sir Bobby’s life will be held at a later date for his many friends and colleagues,” the family said. “Lady Robson and the family would very much appreciate it if their privacy could be respected at this difficult time.”