City fans urged to join clap in tribute to Leigh
WELL-LOVED SEASON TICKET-HOLDER DIED AGED 36
LEICESTER City fans at Sunday’s opening Premier League fixture against Brentford are being asked to clap in tribute to a season ticketholder, who died suddenly aged 36.
Leigh Baker, of Syston, has been described as “loveable and compassionate”.
Mum Karen Smith, dad Wes Baker, stepdad Derek Smith and brother William Baker are mourning the passing of the “always smiling” charity volunteer.
The family have requested people following the game at home, or from the stands, get involved and clap during the 36th minute to celebrate each year of Leigh’s life.
Bianca Henry-Porter said she met Leigh during lockdown and they quickly became close friends.
The 31-year-old, who lived in Queniborough at the time, said: “He was genuinely a loveable, kind and compassionate person.
“There is not a single person I have met that has said a bad word about him.
“He was friendly, kind to everyone and always smiling.
“Leigh had suffered with epilepsy throughout his adult years and during his health struggles he was always laid-back, chilled out and took each day as it was.
“I met him during clap for carers at the start of lockdown. Leigh had bubbled up with his mum who lived opposite me and our friendship stemmed from there.
“Leigh’s zest for life not only meant that he was an absolutely gorgeous human being to be around, but also that he was well-known and wellloved by all.
“I haven’t met a single person who hasn’t got wonderful things to say about Leigh.
“He was an avid Foxes fan, through the lows and the highs. The King
Power was a bit of a second home for Leigh.
“So please, if you’re at the game or not, clap as loudly and valiantly and you can at 2.36pm on Sunday and let’s hope our angel boy can hear us up there.
“He was courageous and determined and had a beautiful and infectious zest for life”.
Leigh worked at the Mind Shop, in Melton Road, Syston.
Bianca said: “He would always have a good old natter with anyone and everyone while getting a frothy coffee from either Costa or Greggs. The boy was obsessed with them.”
Colleagues have set up a tribute at the Mind shop and Leicester artist Jay Connolly has painted a tribute to Leigh which has been hung on the bridge in Syston town centre.
Bianca said: “There are so many people wanting to celebrate his life and continue to keep his spirit alive and there is nothing more beautiful than that”.
Bianca is taking part in the Shrewsbury Half Marathon later this year. Money she raises will be donated to the Epilepsy Society. To donate, go to:
■ More charity stories, see pages
16&17.