Ipswich Town fans took part in an emotional tribute to Barry “Chuckle” Elliott at the weekend’s Rotherham game.
Mr Elliott, who was one half of the legendary Chuckle Brothers, was life president of Rotherham United Football Club, with his funeral held on Friday at the team’s New York Stadium.
• Report on Chuckle tribute here
And to mark the passing of the popular 73-year-old entertainer, Rotherham fans were keen to make their own special tribute - with a “To me, to you” chant in the 73rd minute of the game against Ipswich Town, in recognition of his well-known catchphrase.
Mark Ramsey, chairman of Ipswich Town Supporters’ Club, said the visiting side were only too happy to oblige by joining in one half of the tribute.
“One of their supporters suggested it,” he said.
“It was followed up by someone at the club and we were more than happy to participate and make it a bit of a fun arrangement - which is what football should be about.
“The Chuckle Brothers have been a great part of British entertainment for the best part of 30 years and were dedicated Rotherham supporters. It’s no problem for us to join in a bit of fun as a mark of respect.”
He added that: “Everyone is behind it” - but joked before the match: “No-one is going to say no to that - provided Rotherham don’t score two in the first five minutes!”
It wasn’t until the 90th minute that Rotherham scored, winning the match 1-0.
Rotherham United Tweeted to say it was a “really touching tribute from both sets of supporters”.
The Chuckle Brothers double act shot to fame following an appearance on talent show Opportunity Knocks in 1967.
Their ChuckleVision comedy show ran for 21 series from 1987 to 2009, meaning they had legions of fans from many generations.
Barry’s eldest brother Jimmy Patton said that the TV star had been diagnosed with bone cancer which had spread to his lungs and had been ill for years but kept it hidden so that he could continue to perform – he even took part in pantomime last year despite being gravely ill.
Manager Phil Dale said that Barry “leaves 50 years of laughter as his legacy, which is something very special”.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here