The family of the late Peter Whittingham are in discussions with Cardiff City Football Club regarding the construction of a statue in his honour. Peter Whittingham, a former player of both Cardiff City and Aston Villa, will be fondly remembered as the two clubs face off in the FA Cup fifth round match on Friday. It has been almost five years since Whittingham’s passing, and the match holds special significance for his family, who will be in attendance at Villa Park.
James Whittingham, Peter’s brother, shared that their nieces and nephews, along with Peter’s sons, who are avid Cardiff City fans, will also be present at the match. The family has been touched by the outpouring of support from fans, including fundraising efforts by Villa’s 1897 Group to honour Peter’s memory. James highlighted the importance of sports in teaching resilience and values to children, citing Peter’s sons’ love for Cardiff City and their involvement in soccer school activities.
In addition to retiring Whittingham’s iconic No. 7 shirt and featuring him in matchday programs, Cardiff City has named the indoor school at their academy site after him. The possibility of erecting a permanent statue at Cardiff City Stadium is currently being explored, with discussions ongoing between the family and the club. Although in the early stages, the Whittingham family is grateful for the fans’ support and interest in commemorating Peter in this manner.
The PW7 Foundation, established in Peter Whittingham’s memory, has raised over £150,000 for charities close to the family’s heart. Donations have poured in, with contributions from supporters, including Aston Villa’s 1897 Group. The funds raised have been allocated to Cardiff City FC Community Foundation, Winston’s Wish, a bereavement support charity, and Peter’s alma mater, King Henry VIII School in Coventry.
James Whittingham expressed gratitude for the support received and the positive impact the foundation has had, including funding a scholarship for talented sportsman Finley Allton. The family aims to give back to the institutions that played a significant role in Peter’s life, reflecting his legacy of generosity and goodwill. Supporters have lauded the efforts of the Foundation, further solidifying Peter’s lasting impact on and off the field.
As discussions continue regarding the statue at Cardiff City Stadium, James Whittingham emphasised that the process is in its early stages, with costs being a significant consideration. While Peter may have been humble about accolades, the family sees the statue as a meaningful tribute to his memory and the legacy he left behind. The community’s support and interest in honouring Peter demonstrate the enduring impact he had on those who knew and admired him.
In conclusion, the anticipation for the FA Cup match between Cardiff City and Aston Villa serves as a poignant reminder of Peter Whittingham’s enduring legacy. His family, along with fans from both clubs, will come together to celebrate his life and contributions to football. The discussions around the statue at Cardiff City Stadium symbolise the profound impact Peter had on the sport and the community, leaving a lasting imprint that resonates with supporters and admirers alike.