I am very sadden to update that that my Dad, Alan Fayle, a loyal fan for 58 years, has passed away at the age of 81. After a short but brave fight with bowel cancer and pneumonia he passed away in Wigan Infirmary on April 3rd. My Dad saw his first game in 1948, and was an ever present since then. A season ticket holder, LCTV subscriber and away game traveler until health issues prevented that. He would always be found behind the sticks at Hilton Park, and in the West stand at the LSV.
My Dad was a truly lovely man and a great Dad. He took me to my first game in 1968 and I was hooked. His passion for Leigh Rugby was ingrained in me and I am so thankful for the great times we spent with each other at hundreds of games. He was a gentle and very straight forward man, careful to respect others, and a true gentleman.
For many years now I have dreamed of Leigh making it back into SL while he was still alive. If anyone deserved to see them playing in the elite again it was him. I was so happy for him when we made it last season. I had always said that I would be with him at the first home game when it happened. It seemed however that fate had intervened when he was taken into hospital and diagnosed with bowel cancer days before the Leeds game and 1 day before I arrived. Not to be denied though my Dad not only came out of hospital for the first home game, but then did it again for the first home win against St Helens the next week. He was frail and tired but determined to get to the games. I was right by his side for both and my Mum and son were right there too. The St Helens win was his last ever game. I will never forget watching him live every tackle, pass, run and try. He was so happy at the end, and even had his photo taken with Adam Higson at the side of the pitch at the end. In the following weeks he talked about how lucky he was to see that game. Anyone who says it is just a game should talk to one of the older fans in the LSV.
I would like to say a sincere thank you, from myself and my family, to everyone at Leigh Centurions, but especially Simon Toon (LSV CEO), Matt Lawton and Andrew Parkinson. All played a vital role in getting my Dad to his last two games and allowed him to see his beloved club make history.
To Adam Higson, I cannot explain just how much what you did meant to my Dad and my whole family. To you it probably seemed like a small gesture because you are such a kind and giving person. To my Dad, my family and especially me it can never be repaid. You are a gent and you should be proud mate. Thank you !
Sorry for such a long post, but after 58 years I think my Dad deserves it. Thick and thin he was there, and he even came out of hospital to be there just a few weeks ago. He can no longer do that but he would tell you all to keep the faith and support our lads no matter what.
Love you Dad,
Paul

A very moving tribute to your much loved Dad. R.I.P. Alan.

So superbly and touchingly stated, VL. Like you, my Dad took me to my first game, as a youngster, and I too was hooked. Of all the things I owe to my Dad, a lifelong support of Leigh RL was the biggest.

RIP to your Dad, Alan, and condolences to your family, at such a sad time.

Thinking of you.

Another Alan.

RIP Alan.

You will always have those precious memory's of good times spent together as Father & Son & of course following Leigh Centurions.

To your Dad, may you rest in Heaven.

Paul a very moving tribute to your Dad, I'm sure he was proud of you, your words show your love you had for him, it's always sad to lose one of your parents, but it's nice to know his last memory of Leigh Centurions was a good one,my sincere condolences to your Family.

A very moving tribute to a loyal fan who shared with us a burning passion for our great club.

R.I.P Alan. Thoughts are with Paul and your family and friends.

RIP Alan.

I managed to get my Dad to a game a few days before he passed in 2011, still feels like yesterday. You will remember those two games forever, you will miss him being physically with you forever also. Another watching from that terrace in the sky.

So sorry to hear this sad new, condolences to family and friends. RIP Alan.

Sorry to hear your sad news, Paul. That was an emotional read and a great tribute, sincere condolences to all your family.

Thoughts and prayers sent your way at this sad time

Thanks for all the kind thoughts. He always read this forum and would be so happy to know what all have said.
I just realised that of course 1948 to 4 weeks ago is not 58 years watching Leigh, its 69 years !!!

Very moving tribute that. My thoughts are with you pal. R.I.P to your dad.

Sorry to hear of your loss.

Agree with all other posts, a very moving, emotional tribute. Thoughts to you and your family at such a sad time. (Bradford Bulls fan)

Sorry to hear about your loss

Paul, deepest sympathy to you and your family, i got tears in my eyes reading your tribute.
Take care pal
Ste

Wonderful post filled with life and soul that will never end.

God Bless

Saddened for you especially recalling the excitement of your pre-season posts as you looked forward to watching Leigh in SL alongside your father. At least that came to pass.
Chin up - it does get easier.

Paul, I don't come on and post much on here recently but your post has just brought me to tears. Normally when I read your posts I am usually nodding with approval with your intelligent and well balanced words. There appears a lot of similarities between our fathers and their love for our club. I am fortunate enough to be still blessed with his presence and with that I am so sorry for your loss. Dad can't get to games these days but I am going to ensure he gets there this season after reading this. Dad hasn't seen us in SL here at the LSV and I don't want him to miss out. I wouldn't be here after 48 years still watching Leigh but for him as he approaches his 87th birthday. God rest your dad's soul and love to you and all your family at this difficult time.