Pelé, arguably the greatest footballer of all time, visited music therapy charity Nordoff Robbins in North West London today to celebrate his Legend of Football Award, being presented at the HMV Football Extravaganza (FE) on Tuesday 29th October in London.
The FE, now in its 18th year raises funds for Nordoff Robbins, a music therapy charity who work with isolated and vulnerable people across the UK. Taking place at the Grosvenor House Hotel on Park Lane in London, the FE will see stars from the world of football and music come together to celebrate Pelé’s incredible career.
Whilst visiting Nordoff Robbins’ London Centre in Kentish Town today, Pelé met 13 year old Eduardo. Eduardo, who has autism, has been coming to Nordoff Robbins since he was 10 to help develop his confidence and communication skills. Eduardo was born in the UK, but both his parents are from Brazil.
Pelé said: “I am honoured to be receiving the Legend of Football Award at the HMV Football Extravaganza. It feels special to be recognised at such a prestigious event.
“I was privileged to see Nordoff Robbins’ work today and to meet Eduardo and his family and to learn what a positive difference music therapy has made to his life.”
Brian McLaughlin, chairman of the Football Extravaganza event, said: “We are honoured to be presenting Pelé with the Legend of Football Award. He is without doubt the greatest footballer of all time and a man who remains at the centre of the beautiful game, where he is universally recognised, respected and revered in every corner of the globe.
“The Football Extravaganza, now in its 18th year, is raising funds for Nordoff Robbins. Since its inception we have raised over £6 million, enabling the charity to provide music therapy across the UK to people who really need it – those who are vulnerable and isolated, giving them an opportunity to communicate and to be heard.”
