Video: Ian McParland talks about former Notts County manager Jimmy Sirrel
Jimmy Sirrel is to become the latest Nottinghamshire legend to have a tram named after him.
The former Notts County manager is to join the likes of Lord Byron, Robin Hood and Vicky McClure. He becomes the 38th person to be bestowed the honour.
It follows an appeal to tram operator NET by former County player and manager Charlie McParland.
The naming ceremony is expected to be held next month.
Sirrel was an inside forward for clubs including Celtic before retiring as a player in 1954.
He achieved fame and the love of Magpies fans for his exploits as a manager.
He had three spells at the helm at Meadow Lane between 1969 and 1987.
He first took over with the club languishing in the Fourth Division and got them promoted all the way to the Second Division before leaving for Sheffield United.
Sirrel returned in 1977 to find the club dwelling near the bottom of Division Two and led them to promotion to Division One, the highest position they had been for over 50 years.
He also guided the club to mid-table finishes in the 1980s amid financial trouble.
On becoming Notts County manager he said: “Ask any kid what he knows about Notts County and he’ll tell you they’re the oldest football team in the world. By the time I’ve finished he’ll know a lot more.”
Jimmy Sirrel: Life of a Meadow Lane legend
- Sirrel started out playing for Celtic, before moving to Bradford, Brighton and Aldershot
- Known for his strong Glaswegian accent, he was an important influence on Sir Alex Ferguson
- Guided Notts County to their highest finish in 50 years
- Managed Notts County three times
- Notts County fans voted him their greatest-ever manager
- A stand at Meadow Lane is named in his honour
- Died in 2008 aged 86
