Luke Ayling leads tributes to loyal Leeds United fan Daniel 'Spanner' Wilkinson
TRIBUTES have been paid to Leeds United supporter Dan 'Spanner' Wilkinson who passed away on Wednesday after a short battle with illness.
Dan, who was 51, was a regular in the Elland Road Kop right up until his death and travelled away with the Maverick Whites of whom he was one of the founder members.
Dan, who was born on July 23, 1968, was brought up in Otley before moving to Burley in Wharfedale and Guiseley with 'Spanner' and his family following Leeds United and going to games from a young age.
Dan leaves behind his wife Karen and daughter Millie, who turned seven years old last Thursday.
Paying his tributes in a video message, Whites defender Luke Ayling said: "To the friends and family of Spanner, from me and the boys and the whole Leeds United family, I'd just like to send out prayers and thoughts with you at this time.
"I know speaking to a couple of people that he came home and away for many years and our thoughts are with you at these hard times.
"From me and the boys I would just like to say rest in peace Daniel."
Wilkinson's brother Damien said: "He travelled home and away for many years including Europe.
"He was bringing Millie up the right way, to follow Leeds and sometimes took her to games which she loved.
"He was very well liked and respected, as the number of messages we have had goes to prove."