In the mans own words in 2008. Never seen anything to contradict this. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2008/mar/08/sport.comment1
I went in there a few years ago for sunday lunch with my mum and missus (wasn't particularly impressed with the food to be honest), but Dickie Bird was in the corner, had his dinner on his own, had a snooze and was happy keeping himself to himself. We pretty much left at the same time and had a few friendly words. Seemed a nice chap but I have heard from a few people that his love of free stuff is legendary, Getting on now and don't think there's much need to vilify someone who has probably done more good for the town than any of us have.
Imagine this game was at Oakwell & Sean Bean had done what Mr Bird did, I'd think he was off his head or something!
Eh up pete, I don't think ar Dickie has 100% of his faculties & it is my opinion that he was set up by these despicable dee dar tramps. looked shocking from the last I saw him, bless.