Chris Coffey: A tribute from the Wigan Athletic Supporters Club

"Thursday 26th March 2020: a day which under normal circumstances would probably be like most Thursdays to someone from Wigan.

"Get up, go on with your normal activities, then finish the day hopefully happy in the joy that all is well in the world.

"Sadly, in these dark days with a presence which no man can see nor smell could end our very life.

"This past Thursday, one life did leave God's green earth that was a fellow Tic, no ordinary Tic, a true Latics Mon, a bloke I could call a friend.

"A gentleman who stood around 6'4, was usually smoking, and nine times out a 10 a lager in the other hand.

"This lad was Christopher Coffey.

"Chris was a stalwart committee member and, in the good 'owd days at Springfield Park, sat in the corner of the Members Lounge in his grey suite with a smile bigger than Giant Haystacks, regardless of the result.

"Usually first at the club, and usually the last to leave - but not without support!

"Chris was well known but was a relatively quite man, hard working - and I say this not being disrespectful - didn't have money to burn, but would never see another person short or without...a true attribute in a world where kindness is truly unique.

"Around eight years ago, Chris sadly was diagnosed with cancer, and for his birthday that year he decided to hold his wake.

"Yes, a wake in the Old Pear Tree with his friends while he was still alive...fantastic!

"On the night, Chris placed photos of himself and his friends all over the pub walls...truly, what a night. I remember going in, I didn't remember getting home.

"I have many fond memories of Chris, but my personal favourite is 1996 - the Isle of Man Steam Packet football tournament.

"Around 20 fans from the Supporters Club stayed in the Stakis Hotel as Chris, myself and Joe Mills shared a moment to savour - a distant memory until the photo appeared on the wall on Christopher's birthday party!

"As I get older, I begin to understand the importance and meaning of true friends, and realise that life really is too short.

"Chris tonight will probably be sat on a stool, lager in one hand and smoking - because he can smoke in his club - surrounded by Pete Catterall, Ernie Claxton and Alan Liptrot...to name a few.

"I will also raise a glass tonight, mate, and remember you...the Wigan Athletic Supporters Club badge I placed on your coffin was nowhere near the medal you deserve for loyalty and friendship.

"Rest in peace, mate. You sit in a club now full of Latics legends, probably waiting for one of Owen Hughes' acts to start!

"Have a drink for us, and we will meet up soon - but not too soon I hope, mate.

"A true honour to have known you and to call you a mate, a true 12th man, God bless Christopher Coffey .

- Mick Wimsey, Wigan Athletic Supporters Club vice chairman (and mate).