WIN book about former footballer and Nailsea pub manager Ralph Milne

PUTTING Ralph Milne behind the bar of a Nailsea pub was like carrying coal to Newcastle - an archetypal pointless activity.

Many former footballers go into management when they retire but perhaps pub management wasn’t one of Ralph’s best choices.

A new book called What’s It All About Ralphie? tells the remarkable story of the legendary Dundee United player who went on to play for Charlton Athletic, Bristol City and Manchester United and his struggles on and off the pitch.

Dundee United manager Jim McLean blamed Ralph’s problems with alcohol and gaming for blighting his career.

While manager of the Queen’s Head from spring 2003 to spring 2005 diehard football fans from far and wide made a pilgrimage to the town centre pub.

And they were rarely disappointed as their personable hero often shared a drink (or two) with them and recounted tales of his heyday.

Like the South London Tangerine club of Sunday league footballers who trekked to the Queen’s Head to meet Ralph.

SLT member Neil Forsyth later wrote on their blog: “To most he is more than a man - he is perhaps a movement, a visionary and, dare I say it, a messiah.

“In short he is the Louis Walsh to our Boyzone band.

The midfield player was born in Dundee in May 1961 and he lived out many a young footballer’s dream.

On leaving school he signed for Dundee United and gradually forced his way into a team full of great players.

With electrifying pace and exceptional talent, Ralph quickly established himself as a fans’ favourite. 

He was part of the legendary team which defied all of the odds to win the Scottish Premier Division in 1983. 

However, behind the scenes his volatile relationship with manager Jim McLean culminated in him leaving for Charlton. 

After unhappy spells there and at Bristol City he made a dream move to Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United. 

Ralph struggled to produce his stunning performances of old and retired a few years later.

Many believe he could and should have done so much better but a personal battle with alcohol probably decided otherwise. 

In the eyes of Dundee United football fans he will always be a legend and was introduced into the club’s Hall of Fame in 2009.

The biography is put together by Ralph and Scottish writer and poet Gary Robertson.  

What’s It All About Ralphie? is published by Black & White Publishing, priced £14.99.

Nailsea People has a copy of What’s It All About Ralphie for one lucky fan.

Just answer this simply question. Which club did Ralph Milne start his career. Was it:

a) Dundee United;

b) Charlton Athletic,

c)   Bristol City; or

d) Manchester United?

Email your answer to nailsea@thelocalpeople.co.uk including your name and a daytime telephone number by Friday, January 29.

Normal rules apply and the decision of the community publisher is final.

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