I’m a big Rugby League fan and in particular a Wigan Warriors fan. This weekend the team played Leeds in the semi final before the Super League Grand final. We’ve not played in the final for 7 years so you can imagine the tension as a spectator I was feeling. Well what a brilliant game we played a great game our defence was amazing and we won to take our place in the Rugby League showpiece on 2nd Oct 2010 at Old Trafford the theatre of dreams.

The day after the game and as a season ticket holder I went down to the stadium to que for tickets to the final for my father, my youngest daughter and me. Feeling an internal excitement and buzz you can imagine the overwhelming shock that rippled through the crowd as the news filtered through that one of our ex players had taken his own life earlier that day. Terry Newton was a true home grown tough skilful champion player within the sport. I’m sure you won’t find a Wigan, Leeds or Bradford fan who would disagree.

One can only imagine the anguish he must have been holding to think that that was his only option left to him.

It goes without saying the fans thoughts now go to his family and in particular his two young daughters.

Terry will be remembered by all that saw him play the sport he loved, and those in time to come, that will hear the stories for Terry’s playing days.

He’s gone away too young in heart but when the game upstairs is due to start, his skills are tough and sublime and be assured he’ll be the first pick number 9.

God rest your soul…..