The annual Show Racism the Red Card Hall of Fame ceremony was held at Downing Street this week and was hosted by the Prime Minister Gordon Brown.
West Ham United defender Anton Ferdinand, who is keen to raise awareness of the major issues affecting young people today and is the club's anti-racism ambassador, was invited to attend along with Vice-Chairman Asgeir Fridgeirsson and CEO Scott Duxbury. The Hall of Fame was initiated in 2004 as a way of thanking the high-profile role models who so generously give up their time and commitment to the Show Racism the Red Card campaign by helping to educate children against the dangers and wrongs of racism.
Several past Hammers players have been inaugurated including Ian Wright, Les Ferdinand, Rio Ferdinand, Chris Hughton, Chris Powell as well as current midfielder Kieron Dyer. Former West Ham United goalkeeper Shaka Hislop is also on the esteemed list and is one of the main patrons for the campaign. He introduced this year's awards ceremony with a touching speech about his experiences of racism early in his career and how he became determined to make sure future players were spared the same sort of abuse.
For more information, visit www.theredcard.org
