SUPPORT was today continuing to grow for a bid rename Ipswich Town's North Stand in honour of Sir Bobby Robson.

Neil Puffett

SUPPORT was today continuing to grow for a bid rename Ipswich Town's North Stand in honour of Sir Bobby Robson.

More than 1,800 Blues fans have now signed a petition to rename the stand since an online petition was launched after the 75-year-old admitted that the cancer he is so bravely fighting may kill him within months.

Speculation regarding the former Ipswich manager's health has mounted after he was reported as saying he “would die sooner rather than later”.

However the 75-year-old has moved to reassure his supporters that, although his illness is terminal, he is continuing to fight it with his trademark determination.

Fans are keen to see the accolade introduced before the former Ipswich Town boss dies.

Among those signing the petition, Andrew Ross said: “Sir Bob is a legend and should be honoured while he is still with us.

“Many people are honoured after they die but I think it is fitting that Sir Bob should be present when the North Standers give him the best honour we can give him, and a truly well deserved honour at that.”

Sue Baillie said: “Sir Bobby is a truly wonderful man and is the foundation of the club we have today.

“Renaming the North Stand after him will never be thanks enough for all he has done and been for Ipswich Town FC, but it is a very good start.”

John Pettit said: “They should rename the whole of Ipswich as Saint Bobbytown.”

Key figures from the Ipswich community have backed the campaign, and the football club has agreed to give the matter some consideration.

To sign the petition visit www.ipetitions.com/petition/sir_bobby_robson.

Do you think the North Stand should be renamed in Sir Bobby's honour? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk