Leigh Leopards are greatly saddened to learn of the passing of Don Boyle at the age of 79 and pass on sincere condolences to his wife Janet, two daughters, three grandchildren and his family and friends.

Don was one of those invaluable volunteers and stalwarts who seemed ever present at Leigh and without whom Rugby League clubs would not exist.

The respect with which he was held is already demonstrated by the many glowing tributes posted by supporters on social media since news of his passing on Monday became known.

A lifelong Leigh supporter, Don became more actively involved in the early 1990s when then chairman Mick Higgins formed a supporters committee to assist in fundraising and match day tasks.

Together with his great pal Derek Sumner, who passed away last year, Don took on many roles and became an assiduous fundraiser, running raffles until about three years ago when his health declined.

Smart, upright and always proudly sporting his club tie, Don was also doorman, gateman, matchday host, reserve team manager and trustee of the lottery among his myriad of contributions to his beloved Leigh club.

His determination and refusal to never be beaten summed up the spirit of club volunteers in the Hilton Park days as Leigh battled through several financial crises which threatened the future of professional Rugby League in the town.

No one more than Don enjoyed the championship win of 1982 and Challenge Cup victory of 2023, reward for his indomitable spirit, optimism and devotion. Like all Leigh fans he never lost his faith, believing that good times would always be around the corner.

Don had a dry sense of humour and would always pass on honest opinions on games and players. He served on several players’ testimonial committees and also supported the Lancashire amateur team.

He rarely missed a game and one day was one of a small band of supporters who accompanied Leigh to a midweek game at Whitehaven. There he sadly fell over a terrace step, sustaining a severe injury which necessitated the amputation of his lower leg.

Don made light of the mishap and would dine out on his story that after recovering from anaesthetic following the operation he was offered a meal of roast leg of lamb.

A rugby player in his teenage years with Leigh St Thomas’s, he played alongside future professionals Billy ‘Daz’ Davies and David Leatherbarrow.

In his professional life Don was for many years an area representative for Thorn before later building his own business in the electrical sector.

Don will always be remembered with affection as a Leigh stalwart and a gentleman.

Don Boyle, b 19 Oct 1946, d 9 Feb 2026. An obituary by Mike Latham with thanks to Frank Taylor and Phil Johnson.