Malta and Man. United

There is no doubt that one of the best-supported foreign teams in Malta is Manchester United. The appeal of Manchester United here is stronger thanks to the close ties between the local branch and the Old Trafford giants, which dates back to 1959.

The friendship was forged thanks to the initiative of a group of local United supporters, who, at the time, were led by the club founder John Calleja. That same spirit has been kept alive by all those who have been involved with the club since then.

So much so, that the wealth of experiences, historical moments and friendships since 1959 are to be commemorated on February 4, 2009, when the Manchester United Supporters Club (Malta), the oldest officially recognised supporters' club in the world, celebrates its 50th anniversary.

This is a milestone not only for the club, but also for Malta. The local branch is busy planning events which will be a fitting tribute to all these years. It will be a show of gratitude to all those who worked incessantly to make sure that Malta could have a special place in the heart of all those who form part of the family of Manchester United and vice-versa.

In an interview with Gary Neville (The Times, June 26), he is quoted as saying that it is only 'fitting' and 'fantastic' if the team could come to Malta in 2009 as part of the 50th anniversary celebrations.

Neville, time and time again, has stated that Malta is his second home - and he is not the only one at Manchester United who feels that way, as Malta is mentioned very often, and very fondly within the corridors of Manchester United.

The local branch has elected a sub-committee to plan the celebrations and launched a re-vamped website (manutd-malta.com). The website receives over 4,000 hits daily, and is mainly aimed at keeping its visitors up to date with the latest news and events, while giving them the opportunity to chat about all subjects dealing with United.

Another important project being undertaken is the publication of a limited edition of a book commemorating the history of the club. This book will be a true collectors' item since only 1,500 numbered copies will be printed.

Among the activities being planned this summer are an evening cruise, a preview of MUTV's feature about Malta, a 'Night with the Legends' and 'Golf with the Legends'.

Dr Robert Muscat is 50th anniversary sub-committee secretary and PRO.