PLAYERS from Wigan Warriors Rugby Club attended a charity night in memory of one of their biggest fans.

The sell-out event, at Astley Bridge Conservative Club, was held to honour Gordon Harrison, of Astley Bridge, who died of lung cancer, last October, aged 61, and raised £4,613 for Cancer Research UK.

Half-back Thomas Coyle and winger, Brett Dallas presented a cheque for £3,000 to Margaret Hynes, who accepted it on behalf of the charity.

Mr Harrison ran the clubs lottery for more than 15 years and never missed a game, even in his final weeks.

He had planned to organise the evening of entertainment himself, if he had recovered.

Mr Harrisons widow, Sandra, aged 61, said: "Everyone loved him, he was such a popular man. He was so friendly and got on with everyone."

Mr Harrison, who smoked, was diagnosed with lung cancer in March, 2004.

He was given chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

He was due to have further treatment, but deteriorated and died in October.

A spokesman for the club said: "Gordon was highly regarded by everyone at the club and is sadly missed."