Former Preston North End players joined fans in celebrating the life and career of Lilywhites great Sir Tom Finney.

Eric Jones and Peter Higham, two former teammates of Finney, told tales of playing alongside one of the world’s greatest players.

Higham said: To pull that white shirt on and run out of the tunnel at Deepdale for the first time alongside Sir Tom was a dream come true. Then to score a hat trick as well was unbelievable. It was a pleasure to play in the same team as the great man.”

Organised by the University of Central Lancashire’s creative communities group and the PNE former players’ association included interviews with both players as well as entertainment.

Sir Tom’s son, Brian Finney, was in attendance.

He said: “I was delighted to be invited to attend the event and it was great to catch up with dad’s former footballing colleagues and listen to them reminisce about the old days playing for Preston North End Football Club.”

Proceeds from ticket sales for the event, which took place on Thursday (24 February) are to go to two local charities.

Read more: Books of condolence given to the Finney family

UCLan honorary fellow and community ambassador Russell Hogarth said: “What a tremendous evening we had looking back at the life and times of Preston’s most famous footballer Sir Tom Finney.

“Former PNE players Eric Jones and Peter Higham had the audience spellbound when reminiscing about the old days playing alongside Sir Tom in the 1950s. It was delightful to see Sir Tom’s son Brian making a personal appearance at the University to support his father’s legacy. On a personal note it was also a very special night for me because I chair the UCLan Honorary Fellows and Sir Tom received his Honorary Fellowship back in 1988.”

Did you go along to the event? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below