& on a side note, check out @Mark_Taylor tweet of a profound statement by DB, yes he has a lot of mouth but he wasn't wrong.

I have always supported DB from day one and my post older have evidence of that. Those who haven't been too sure about DB, I think there has been enough evidence now to jump on board this fantastic journey.

Without doubt we would not be where we are today without Derek. It was his drive, passion and commitment (oh and a little bit of cash



) that drove everyone else on. He got the players and the fans to buy into his vision and it takes a very special personality to achieve that and because of that he has my utmost respect. I haven't always been his greatest fan but I know a great man when I see one and I'm chuffed to death that he achieved his (and our) dream.

Congratulations Derek, and from the bottom of my heart, thank you.

What can I say other than a sincere thank you. My Dad has been watching Leigh for 75 years and he now will be watching his team in the top flight once again and I will make sure I'm right by his side for our first SL game next season. Cheers Derek for giving him and me the chance to do that


Derek has provided the funds, but more than that managed to rebuild the pride and passion of everyone involved with the club, be it coaches, players, staff and most importantly fans.
A quick look at Salford and their 1700 crowd this weekend shows that successful heartland rugby league is so much more than just money. (and sorry Salford fans I'm not gloating just making a point)
I urge everyone to get a season ticket early to help Derek in our Super League season, and show him and all at the club we are behind them all the way.

That post Mish more or less sums up my view, some of his comments last season were cringe worthy but in arguably more difficult times the whole club lead masterfully by DB have learned from past mistakes, and this season DB hasn’t allowed anything or anyone to take us off track he’s maintained the drive, passion, commitment and much needed funding to ensure the coaching staff and players had the opportunity to allow us to arrive safely with time to spare.

Success for us Leythers unfortunately doesn’t come around that often and I am gratefully that he has given me and my family the opportunity to join him on the journey and to once again taste how sweet success can be.

Thank you very much Derek

Ste it was Chorley, at Victory Park.Charlie knows.

S it was Charlie, so it was

Great owner and even greater person. You dont achieve what he has in life without being ruthless, focused and driven but most of all and what is unusual in most high profile successful businessmen Derek has a heart of gold.

This my fellow Leythers is only the beginning now a small matter of SL and a Challenge Cup Final at Wembley.

The knockers are now in their caves and speaking of which anyone seen Mr Jagger?

Sheffield Don Valley Stadium on the Bridges to Babylon Tour

I really can not fault Derek for his drive, his compassion and passion and most of all his generosity. After Arthur had departed I never thought that anyone remotely like him would come along and take on, not only a financial burden but a mental and physical one. Derek has surpassed any expectations anyone could have had for the owner of this club. Derek and every single one of the staff at the club take a bow. You are all fantastic.