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Duration: 30 minutes

When US billionaire Bob Rich's wife discovered an ancestral link to the Northumbrian town of Bedlington, few could have anticipated what would happen next.

Looking to find a way to connect with his English ancestors, one of America's richest men took on the challenge of transforming the local northern league football club, the Bedlington Terriers. For the team described as more mongrel than pedigree, what happens next is a fairytale. Bob offers his backing - and the chance of a trip of a lifetime - to see how he runs his baseball clubs in Buffalo. It turns out to be a trip the northern team will never forget - and the beginnings of a love affair between Bob Rich and the Terriers.

The film has exclusive access to the team and Bob as he introduces them to his business empire and his luxury home - and stages what proves to be a controversial soccer game in their honour.

Last on

Sun 25 Mar 2012 22:50 BBC Two England, Northern Ireland only

  • Video: Bedlington Terriers strike it rich

    Video: Bedlington Terriers strike it rich

    The Northern League Bedlington Terriers are struggling for survival but thanks to an incredible stroke of luck, one of the world's richest men steps in to sponsor the club.

    Watch a video feature below...

    YouTube: Mr Rich and The Terriers

  • Video feature: Bedlington Terriers hit jackpot with Mr Rich

    Video feature: Bedlington Terriers hit jackpot with Mr Rich

    When US billionaire Bob Rich's wife discovered an ancestral link to the Northumbrian town of Bedlington, few could have anticipated what would happen next.

    Looking to find a way to connect with his English ancestors, one of America's richest men took on the challenge of transforming local Northern League football club Bedlington Terriers.

    For the team described as "more mongrel than pedigree", it was a fairytale come true.

    It turns out to be the beginning of a love affair between Bob Rich and the Terriers.

    Watch a video feature on the BBC News website...

    BBC Sport: Bedlington Terriers hit jackpot with sponsor Mr Rich

  • Bedlington Terriers' unexpected financial lift

    Bedlington Terriers' unexpected financial lift

    Northern League club Bedlington Terriers say they have been given a sponsorship boost from American billionaire Robert Rich Jr.

    The club maintain that Rich, 69, bought the title of Lord Bedlington and having researched the area, opted to show his support for the club financially.

    Read the full story on the BBC Sport website below...

    BBC Football: Bedlington Terriers claim unexpected financial lift

Credits

Narrator
Gina McKee
Director
Maggie Latham
Producer
Maggie Latham

Broadcasts

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