Ex-QPR: Jim Smith Being Honoured

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Former QPR Manager of the mid-1980s (and almost QPR General manager of 2006), Jim Smith is being feted January 31, to mark his managerial retirement.

Oxford Mail/John Murray - Stars come out to honour Jim
FORMER Oxford United boss Jim Smith is to be honoured with a special evening at Blenheim Palace to mark his retirement.
The Bald Eagle, who is United's most successful manager ever during his first spell at the club in the 80s when he led the team to successive titles and into the top flight, has been one of the game's most colourful chacters.
His management career has spanned more than 35 years and he has taken charge of Boston, Colchester United, Blackburn, Birmingham, Oxf- ord, QPR, Newcastle, Portsmouth and Derby, as well as being part of the management team at Coventry City and Southampton.
He was unable to lead the U's back into the Football League during his second stint at the club, but, after stepping aside as manager two months ago, he remains one of the club's directors and a key advisor to his successor, Darren Patterson.
The event to mark his retirement will be held at Blenheim Palace on Thursday, January 31. It starts at 7pm with a three-course dinner followed by speeches and a look back at Smith's career.
Jim will be joined for the special evening by many of the friends and colleagues he has worked alongside over the years.
Sir Alex Ferguson, Steve McClaren, Harry Redknapp, Ron Atkinson, Trevor Francis, Sam Allardyce, Dave Bassett, Kevin Bond, David Pleat, Howard Kendall, Howard Wilkinson, Jon Sillett, Jim Rosenthal Gary Newbon, Trevor East and Ray Graydon are just some of the names who will be attending with the whole night hosted by ITV sports presenter Rosenthal.
Sports comic Aaron James will be entertaining the guests after dinner.
United chairman Nick Merry, one of the main organisers of the event, said: "I think it says it all when you see the people that are coming.
"Other famous names are coming who have not been mentioned, and not one person said they wouldn't be able to make it.
"Indeed, there were two or three who commented that 'wild horses' wouldn't be able to keep them away!
"That's a tremendous tribute to Jim. I'm not sure exactly what the numbers are, but I think there's only one manager who has managed more games than Jim.
"Blenheim Palace too appreciated what a big night it will be, and it's a beautiful setting. it should be quite a gala evening."
There are a number of places available too to the general public, with the opportunity to rub shoulders with some of the country's most famous football managers.
The strictly limited 140 available places for this black tie event are priced at £200. And with demand certain to be huge, those wishing to attend are advised to book their places as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
Bookings are being taken by calling 01865 337533 Oxford Mail