Walker tribute painting unveiled

A painting of former Wakefield Trinity Wildcats player, Leon Walker, was presented to his family at the game against Catalan Dragons on Sunday.

Leon passed away in March 2009 whilst playing for the Wildcats Reserves against Crusaders. His untimely death was a great shock to all involved with the sport and his presence is missed by many a member of the Rugby League world.

Wakefield fans have expressed their desire for a memorial for Leon at the club, a place in which they can go and remember the popular forward and keep Leon’s memory alive. It is for this reason that Jason Wilsher-Mills, a talented artist firmly involved with the Disabled Supporters Association at the club, has created a unique painting of Leon that can be displayed at the ground.

The painting was unveiled to Leon’s mother Donna, father Steve, younger brother Oliver and friend Steve Locking by Chief Executive James Elston on Sunday afternoon at half time. As the stunning painting was then walked around the pitch for fans to applaud, a collection was made for Heart Research UK. All the money that was raised will kindly be donated directly to the charity from all of Leon’s family and friends for their vital work that they carry out each and every day.

A club statement added: “It was a pleasure to have Leon’s family at the game on Sunday. The framed painting of Leon is now proudly displayed in The Cats Bar at the ground for all supporters to see.”