Touching memorial after death of lifelong Manchester City fan who suddenly collapsed at derby

A touching memorial service has been planned to remember a lifelong Manchester City fan who died after suddenly collapsing at the derby.

Les Sparrow, known fondly as 'Budgie' by those who knew him, had travelled to the game from Blackpool with his friend of 30 years Gary Brown, on December 15 last year.

But just moments after entering the grounds, at entrance K, he suddenly collapsed to the ground. The 70-year-old, who had just the week before celebrated his birthday, was rushed to hospital but pronounced dead a short time later.

His friends have now revealed that plans have been made to scatter his ashes at the Etihad Stadium memorial garden on January 28. Friends and loved ones are invited to pay their respects before celebrating his life back in his hometown of Blackpool.

The memorial garden, located outside The Colin Bell Stand, has been created by volunteers, including staff at the Club and local businesses.

Previously speaking to the Manchester Evening News, Les'sclose friend Gary, who attended every Man City game with him including across Europe, said the pair travelled to Manchester before having some pre-game drinks in the Townley pub before heading into the Etihad stadium.

After meeting up with other friends, Les said he was going to go to his seat. Moments later, he collapsed and was quickly surrounded by stewards who called the emergency services.

The North West Ambulance Service confirmed they were called at 4.07pm to a 'medical incident' at the stadium. Les was rushed to Manchester Royal Infirmary, but was pronounced dead a short time later.

Gary said Les was born in Wythenshawe before moving to Blackpool. He previously served as a Sapper in the Royal Engineers and later went on to work as a Civil Servant