Former Wigan Athletic man passes away after positive Covid-19 test

Harold Lea meeting Paul Cook at the DW Stadium | jpimedia

Harold Lea, who played in goal for Wigan Athletic during their non-league days, has died at the age of 88 after testing positive for Covid-19.

Born in Wigan, Harold grew up in Beech Hill and was educated at Wigan Grammar School.

Following national service in the Royal Air Force, he played for Horwich RMI before signing for Latics in 1955.

After three years with his hometown club, Harold joined Stockport County, who were then in the third tier of the Football League.

An all-round sportsman, Harold played cricket at Wigan Cricket Club and golf at Wigan Golf Club, where he was Club Captain in 1993.

His son, Andrew, said: “Dad was receiving care visits at home until recently moving into a residential care home.

“His carers, ‘Belong at Home Wigan’, kindly arranged for him to visit the DW Stadium, where he met the manager, Paul Cook, on the pitch before the game against Nottingham Forest.”

He was given a front row seat to watch his old team record an important 1-0 victory.

Speaking on the day, Harold said: “It was a truly wonderful experience to be back on a football pitch, made even more special by the fact it was my beloved former club.”

Latics boss Cook added: “It was a pleasure to meet Harold and his family before the game.

“We discussed the difference in the facilities from when he played to what they are now and how far the game has come from then.”

Harold tested positive for Covid-19 after suffering a heart attack on April 9, and received wonderful treatment at Wigan Infirmary before passing away on April 16.