Everton will unveil a Gary Speed Memorial Bench at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday, marking the 14th anniversary of the former captain's passing. The bench, located on the Budweiser Fan Plaza, is the club's first talking bench, designed to encourage conversation and tackle loneliness.
The bench bears the message: “IN MEMORY OF GARY SPEED, EVERTONIAN, CAPTAIN, LEADER 1969–2011. A place for what is often unspoken. A place to sit, share and listen.” It includes discreet signposting to mental health support services and a QR code linking to Everton in the Community's programmes, including The People's Place.
The installation was proposed by the Everton Fans' Forum, aiming to create a positive legacy in Speed's name. The unveiling precedes Saturday's fixture against Newcastle United, a club Speed also represented. Gary's family will visit the bench ahead of the game.
Former teammate Neville Southall said: “You would never associate Gary with a bench, because he was a fella who seemed to have everything. But in many respects it’s very apt. If you sit there and think everybody else’s life is perfect, you can reflect on a man who was a wonderful footballer and a great manager - but still had his own problems.”
Dave Wycherley, Vice Chair of the Fans Forum, added: “We wanted to remember Gary Speed in the most constructive way, and we hope this bench becomes a lasting legacy. Problems feel lighter when shared, and Everton has always been a club where supporters mix, talk, and escape life’s pressures for a while.”
The bench will be available from Saturday onwards, including non-matchdays, providing a permanent space for reflection and connection.
