Terminally-ill Derby County fan dies days after promotion

A terminally-ill Derby County fan who wanted to "hang on" to see the Rams clinch promotion has died.

Colin Attenborough was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer just before Christmas and died on Monday "surrounded by his family".

Loved ones said Mr Attenborough, 87, was aware Derby had achieved promotion back to the Championship on Saturday.

Prior to his death, Mr Attenborough had said he would "love it" if he could "hang on" to see the promotion.

In February, Derby County boss Paul Warne said in a video message that his side would aim for promotion and do it for the lifelong fan.

Mr Attenborough had also been the chairman of Sinfin Moor Park nature reserve in Derby for 15 years and recently had a newly-built pavilion named in his honour.

A statement from his family said: "We are heartbroken at the loss of our beloved dad, grandad, and great grandad.

"We are overwhelmed of how loved and well known he is by everyone. We thank everyone for their kind words and support at this time."

Before his death, Mr Attenborough said he wanted a Derby County scarf to be placed on his coffin.

Speaking of his funeral plans, he added: "I want my cordless drill, in case any jobs need doing, because I love my do-it-yourself, and I want a pack of playing cards."

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