Manchester United Mourns Legendary Receptionist Kath Phipps

Manchester United legend Kath Phipps, who served as the club's receptionist for 56 years, passed away at the age of 85, prompting an outpouring of tributes from the football community. Her funeral was held at Manchester Cathedral, attended by notable figures such as Sir Alex Ferguson, David Beckham, and other past and present Manchester United players. Phipps, referred to as a 'one-woman institution,' began her career with United in 1968 and played crucial roles as a switchboard operator and later as a receptionist at Old Trafford and the training ground. Figures like Wayne Rooney and Beckham emphasized her significant impact, with Beckham noting she was the 'heartbeat of Manchester United.' Phipps was celebrated for her warm personality, which contributed to the club's familial atmosphere, and was honored with a Service to Football Award in 2022. Her death marks the end of an era for many associated with the club.