EXILED Wanderers fan Stephen Leach travelled more than 5,000 miles to make sure he didn't miss last night's historic match at Burnden Park.

Stephen, who emigrated to South Africa 15 years ago, was determined to be on the terraces. So he called his cousin Alan McKendrey, managing director of Division One furniture, to get him a ticket for the Burnden finale.

Stephen used to travel from Littleborough to Bolton to watch his heroes in action when he lived in the North West.

Alan said: "He keeps in touch with all the results and stories with a bit of help from me."

Stephen, aged 40, and his wife Michelle are enjoying a fortnight's holiday in the NW, including a visit to Wanderers' new Reebok Stadium and the hospitality of a karaoke night at Breightmet Labour Club.

Alan added: "Michelle hasn't been out of South Africa before and she's been delighted by how friendly people are around Bolton." and hasn't lost any of his passion for the club despite being on the other side of the world."

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