Giant tribute created on Seaburn Beach to SAFC super-fan George Forster as other tributes pour in

George, who ran the Black Cats supporters association for 55 years, sadly passed away on Tuesday (February 3) at the age of 99.

Following his passing Sunderland AFC posted a tribute to George highlighting he was “red and white to the core and became one of the most cherished figures in the club’s fan base”, adding he will “never be forgotten”.

Former club chairman Bob Murray and club historian Rob Mason also paid there own tributes.

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George was a much loved and popular character amongst Black Cats fans and today (February 5) Michael Farmer sent us a photograph of a giant piece of Beach Art on Seaburn Beach paying tribute to George.

The sand carving included the club’s original badge, a heart, and the words, ‘RIP George Forster’.

In response to the story, Michael also posted his own tribute on social media which said: “R. I. P. George Forster, a great ambassador for Sunderland”, followed by heart, pray and football emojis.

Other SAFC fans also responded to the story by paying tribute on social media.

Sunderland Community Soup Kitchen posted “absolute legend x, lovely memories x, Rest In Peace George”, whilst Sue Kirby and Dean Smith simply stated “respect”.

Jeff Allison posted a photograph of George meeting current SAFC manager Regis Le Bris accompanied with the words Rest in Peace.

Despite his advancing years, George continued to work as chairman of the Supporters Association until the end of 2021.

Although he never played for the club, in October last year (2025) he was inducted as an honorary member of the Former Players’ Association.

In October (2025) George celebrated his 99th birthday in style after receiving over 300 birthday cards from well wishers around the world.

One of those was from 1973 FA Cup winning goalkeeper and SAFC legend Jim Montgomery who delivered the card in person to George at his care home.