Source: Daily_Mail
England midfielder David Beckham devastated by death of grandfather Joe
David Beckham is devastated after his grandfather Joe West died - just hours after the Los Angeles Galaxy star arrived in South Africa to help England's bid to host the 2018 World Cup. [LNB]The 34-year-old midfielder had just landed in Cape Town when he was told the news by distraught family members. [LNB]Beckham was extremely close to Joe, who was 83, and often cited him as his footballing inspiration. [LNB] Close family: Grandparents Joe and Peggy were with Beckham and his wife Victoria when the midfielder was awarded his OBE at Buckingham Palace in 2003[LNB]Joe was the father of Beckham's mother Sandra, and the England international attended Tottenham's school of excellence under the guidance of his grandfather who was a huge Spurs fan. [LNB]Campaign: England's bid ambassador Beckham with FIFA chief Sepp Blatter in Cape Town[LNB]Beckham's family are believed to have urged him to stay in Cape Town, where he was due to take part in Friday's draw for next summer's World Cup finals and have crucial meetings with FIFA bosses to help England's bid to host the tournament in 2018.[LNB]Mr West's death follows a serious illness. In August, the Beckhams rushed back from LA after he was taken to hospital. [LNB]A friend said: 'David is absolutely devastated. He was so close to Joe, who was his mentor. [LNB]'Heonly got off the plane when he heard the news. His family are urginghim to stick to his work commitments and leave at the end of the week,but there is no way that David wants to miss Joe's funeral. If he hasto fly home, then so be it.' [LNB] Quality: Beckham played his part in the qualifying campaign for South Africa 2010[LNB] England star Beckham boosts 2018 bid after wooing FIFA president BlatterBecks awaits Blatter showdown in attempt to push 2018 World Cup bidCharles Sale: Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich bankrolls Russia's 2018 World Cup bidGARY LINEKER: I'm proud to back our World Cup bid but I'm no Lord CoeVIDEO: Beckham insists asthma won't stop him playing for at the World Cup[LNB] Explore more:People:David BeckhamPlaces:Cape Town, South Africa, United Kingdom, Buckingham Palace
