Co-founders of the Jack Leslie campaign, Greg Foxsmith and Matt Tiller, ultimately raised over £100,000 for the statue, with the unveiling ceremony attended by a number of VIPs and special guests, including West Ham ambassador Cole.
Aligned with West Ham United’s wider commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, ensuring fair treatment and opportunity for all, a maquette of the Jack Leslie statue will return to the London Stadium and take pride of place at the ground as a tribute to Jack’s outstanding legacy.
Carlton Cole said: “It was an honour to attend the unveiling of the Jack Leslie Statue at Home Park and to represent West Ham United in paying tribute.
“For all Black footballers, Jack is a true pioneer. His story is incredible, moving from Barking Town to Plymouth Argyle in an outstanding playing career, before returning to East London and working at West Ham United, a club that has always had diversity embedded throughout – something that makes me extremely proud.
“It is so sad that Jack was denied the chance to play for his country due to the colour of his skin, but today shows how far we have come in sport and society, and Jack would be so proud of this moment.
“The statue is a fitting tribute to a real legend and West Ham United is proud to join forces with Jack’s family, Plymouth Argyle, and the entire footballing community to celebrate this special moment.”
https://www.whufc.com/news/west-ham-united-celebrate-jack-leslie-statue-unveiling
