Friend Shares Memories of Fan Who Died at Match

Gary Brown, a Manchester City supporter, recounted his final encounter with Les Sparrow, his friend of three decades, before Mr. Sparrow’s passing during their team’s game against Manchester United. Mr. Sparrow, a dedicated club fan and Royal Engineers veteran, succumbed to a medical emergency at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. Mr. Brown stated that he had accompanied Mr. Sparrow to the stadium, only to be informed later by stewards that the 70-year-old had died after being transported to Manchester Royal Infirmary. Speaking to BBC Radio Manchester, Mr. Brown characterized Mr. Sparrow, stating, “He was very brainy, very witty, and he would do anything for you, a very genuine bloke.” He further explained that after they had proceeded along the concourse, Mr. Sparrow had separated from him to converse with another group of acquaintances. Mr. Brown remarked, “That was the last time I saw him.” According to Mr. Brown, Mr. Sparrow, who had marked his 70th birthday just the previous week, resided in Blackpool but was originally from Wythenshawe, Manchester. For many decades, the two attended Manchester City matches together, having formed their bond on game days. Mr. Brown mentioned that, apart from the club’s dramatic 3-2 win against QPR that secured the title in 2012, Mr. Sparrow’s most cherished game was an away fixture versus Blackburn during the 2000 season, which resulted in their promotion to the Premier League. Mr. Brown concluded, “I have many happy memories of him, if you were sitting in his company you were never bored.” The Manchester City Military Veterans Official Supporters Club also honored Mr. Sparrow, whom his friends affectionately called “budgie.” In a formal statement, the club expressed that it was “deeply saddened” by the news of his demise, characterizing him as “a former sapper who was immensely proud of his service with the Royal Engineers.” The statement concluded, “Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Rest in peace, Les. Thank you for your service.”