A range of educational resources have been launched by the English organisation Football Unites, Racism Divides (FURD) to coincide with the 125th Anniversary of Arthur Wharton signing for Rotherham Town in 1889, with which he became world’s first black professional footballer.

The package of educational material includes 'The Arthur Wharton Story' documentary, a new Arthur Wharton exhibition, a 40 page booklet and PowerPoint presentations for use in school assemblies and lessons.

‘The year 2014 will undoubtedly be Arthur’s Year, the time when his amazing story will reach millions of people in the UK alone’, commented the FURD representative and Fare’s Chair, Howard Holmes.

Alongside with the educational resources, a new website and a comic book named ‘Arthur Wharton: Victorian Sporting Superstar’, which retells Arthur’s story from footballer to miner through the eyes of his granddaughter, have also been produced in celebration of Arthur's contribute to football.

‘A number of celebratory events are planned, including separate statues of the great pioneer outside Rotherham United’s New York Stadium and at the FA’s St George’s Park HQ, near Burton. We are encouraging fans, football authorities, clubs, youth and community groups and voluntary organisations to host events in celebration of Arthur’s life and achievements’, added Holmes.

The ‘Victorian Sporting Superstar’ comic book is available from enquiries@furd.org for £2. Discounted rates are available for bulk orders.