Colin Westby, 68, was a season ticket holder at Leeds for 50 years
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A Leeds fan has died after suffering a medical emergency at Elland Road
A Leeds fan has died after suffering a medical emergency at Elland Road (Getty)
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A Leeds United fan who suffered a medical emergency before October’s meeting with Manchester United has died, the club has confirmed.
Colin Westby, 68, was taken to hospital by ambulance after requiring medical attention around half an hour before kick-off at Elland Road on 18 October. He was then placed in a medically-induced coma.
Leeds initially praised the “rapid action” of stewards and medical staff on the day, and say they are “heartbroken” to learn the news of his passing.
“Leeds United are heartbroken to learn of the passing of supporter Colin Westby at the age of 68,” a club statement read.
“Colin suffered a medical emergency ahead of our Premier League fixture with Manchester United on Sunday 18 October at Elland Road.
“After being transferred to hospital, he was placed into a medically induced coma and sadly following a period of unresponsiveness, the decision was made to withdraw life support.”
Westby was a season ticket holder at Leeds for 50 years and will be honoured during Leeds’ next Premier League fixture this weekend.
“The thoughts of everyone at Leeds United are with Colin’s family and friends at this sad time,” the statement continued.
“We will pay tribute to Colin in the 68th minute of our next Premier League fixture with Tottenham Hotspur, on Saturday 7 November.”
Marching Out Together, the official fan group for Leeds’ LGBTQ+ fans, also paid tribute to a “friend of our MOuT family” on social media.
“We were so sorry to hear of the passing of Colin Westby, a Leeds fan for 50+ years and friend of our MOuT family,” a statement read.
“Love and light to all who were with him that day, and above all to his family and friends.
“Please recognise Colin in the 68th minute on Saturday.”