Older fans will remember Jim Fiddler, who played prop at Wembley for Leigh in 1971, scoring the vital first points of the game against Leeds- a two point drop goal.

Sadly Jim had joined some of the heroes in the sky having passed away on Tuesday after a long illness.

Jim's children were obviously disturbed a few weeks ago when a rumour circularised the town stated he had passed away then, this was inaccurate. However news is now confirmed Jimmy has passed away in a Wigan nursing home, having suffered for some months following a stroke that had left him in a coma.

He was a player greatly admired at Hilton Park and he will be sadly missed. RIP Jimmy.

Sincere condolences. I have very fond memories of watching Jimmy play for Leigh. RIP big fella.

Our thoughts & prayers go to Jim,s family & close friends a Legend to many owd Leythers.
Thanks for the memories.
Ian Cunliffe & Family

Very sad to hear RIP jimmy.

As more of that great team pass away we really need a lasting memorial somewhere in our town.

Very sad RIPJim

i was at wembley in 1971 when jimmy dropped that famous goal...r.i.p.jimmy......

Always sad to hear this sort of news.

RIP lad and condolances to his family.

RIP Jimmy Fiddler......Sad News.
Jimmy was one of the Leigh players I can remember from when I first paid 10p to go and watch in 1976 (ish).
If I remember correctly, didn't Jimmy used to 'toe bung' his conversions/penalties, a'la Ray Dutton style !!!

Very sad news. RIP Jimmy.

More desperately sad news. RIP Jimmy Fiddler.

Great player, will be sadly missed, RIP.

Very sad news. I think Jimmy also played for Salford so I hope this will be the subject of a tribute before the game on Friday.

RIP Jimmy.

There may not have been enough time to contact the RFL for permission for a minutes silence.

Sad news - another Leyther departed and he must only have been mid60s???

Fred, do we really have to get RFL permission for a minutes silence? Bonkers

There is to be a minute's silence before the game tonight - providing all the relevant parties have been informed in time.

RIP Jimmy - thanks for the memories of skilful prop forward play and 'proper' goal kicking!

RIP Jimmy.

yes Pat we do but it has been arranged and a minutes silence will be held tonight in memory of Jimmy.

Remember him very well,good solid player RIP

Another 71's player who has departed too soon

RIP Jimmy, and condolences to his family

A few years ago, the ultra dodgy and much maligned former Chester City owner Steven Vaughan (who was simultaneously Widnes' owner and ruined both clubs) ordered a minutes silence prior to a game at the Deva Stadium for one of his gangster chums - who had no link to the club whatsoever. Since that incident and the anger that it generated, I believe a number of governing sports bodies have opted for a procedure of prior approval.

You could be right as the directive only came in part way through a season (last but one I think it was).

It probably was only an e mail though to be fair.

Sad news, i remember watching him play for the North Sydney Bears and i think the Balmain Tigers back in the early/mid 70's

The Watcher would like to pay his respects to one of his heroes. Jim Fiddler legend!