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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
David Bull

Letter: Ronald Allison obituary

Southampton Edward Manchester United
Ronald Allison in 1980.
Ronald Allison in 1980. Photograph: ITN/Shutterstock

As the Queen’s press secretary, Ronald Allison had to advise Her Majesty on her role at any upcoming engagements – such as presenting the FA Cup at the 1976 final between the odds-on favourites Manchester United and Southampton.

As a lifelong Saints supporter, Allison explained how she would be “presenting the Cup to the Southampton captain”. Her Majesty approved, but added that: “Edward tells me it will be Manchester United, not Southampton.”

What did Edward know? The Queen presented the Cup to Southampton’s Peter Rodrigues. She has never attended a Cup final since.

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