Episode 9

By David Peace.

One hundred years ago this September, in a small Scottish mining village in East Ayrshire, Bill Shankly was born.

Shankly's passion was football. It was his job and it was his life, both as a player and then as a manager. He transformed the fortunes of Liverpool Football Club, turning the team into a world class side, and he has been immortalised as a hero. From the very beginning, he was as committed to the fans as they were to him.

Acclaimed author of 'The Damned United' David Peace describes Shankly as "not just a great football manager. Bill Shankly was one of the greatest men who ever lived". David Peace's astonishing book takes us into Bill Shankly's home and his heart, beyond Anfield. A very gentle side to Bill is revealed.

Now, in retirement, and missing his involvement at the club that was such a central part of his life, Bill remains committed to the Liverpool community. Bill Shankly goes to visit an under-16s player at the children's hospital who has been told his injury could mean he will never play football again.

Read by Gary Lewis
Abridged by Robin Brooks
Producer: Allegra McIlroy.