Having been out most of the evening my dad's just told me about this.

To say I'm shocked is a huge understatement.

Jim was a lovely man who always used to say hello when he was passing the ticket office, and when time permitted used to stop and have a bit of a chat. Every time I saw him he always had a smile on his face.

Will be greatly missed.

My thoughts are with all family and friends at this time,

Paul

Leigh's loss is heavens gain. RIP fellow Leyther.

Terrible news , a nice bloke who always had a smile on his face and a positive outlook on life

When I was told this afternoon I was truly gutted, a real nice bloke, always had time for everyone, he will be sadly missed, my thoughts go to Carole, Ian and his sister at this sad time. R I P Jimmy.

This is so sad. I didn't know Jim personally but I've seen him about and he always struck me as a really friendly, happy chap. I sure he will be missed by all who knew him and my deepest condolences go to his family.

RIP Jim

I am gutted by this sudden shocking news and wish to pass my condolences to Carol and family and everyone at Leigh East.

People like Jim are the reason we have so many good amateur clubs in this country, the legacy and work they do must never be forgotten or taken for granted as it tends to be to a degree in professional circles.

It was a priviledge and an honour to know Jim, his boundless enthusiasm and wit shone through and he has been a big help to me, particularly in preparation for East's recent Challenge Cup game against Hunslet.

When Jim told me a couple of years ago that he had taken over doing the Leigh East programme and he asked me to provide an article, I was only too happy to oblige. It has been a pleasure communicating and working with Jim and the programmes themselves are a testimony to just some of the great work Jim was involved with at Easts. It was Jim that designed the current Leigh East site and he has done a sterling job on that.

I will miss you Jim and I want to thank you.

Getting the chance to know people like Jim is one of the reasons I love rugby league and there is no doubting that Easts have a void that can not be filled.

Heard the news of Jimmy passing away yesterday and was shocked to say the least. Myself and my family have known Jimmy and his family for a long time from hia kids days at Howe Bridge Swimming Club, where he was just as dedicated and enthusiastic as he was at Leigh East.

I always had an 'outside' interest in Rugby League as a kid, but it was Jimmy's enthusiasm that got me down to Hilton Park to watch the Centurions many years ago. In no time at all i had a season ticket and Jimmy took me many games over the next few years.

Jimmy was always very kind and generous and his love for the Leigh rugby scene knew no bounds. He will be missed greatly by all. Our thoughts go out to Carol, Hayley, Ian and Leah at this sad time.

Carl + Family

R.I.P. Jim , thoughts go out to Carole , Ian and family and Jims extended family at leigh east.
A true gentleman , diamond fella and will be sadly missed , R.I.P. Jim

Top bloke always had time for a chat with Jim. Will be sadly missed. God bless.

I,m truly devastated by this sudden and tragic news. A true gentleman, a good family man, and an honest hard working servant to Rugby League.

Deepest condolances to Carol and Family. Our thoughts go with you.

RIP Jim

R.I.P Jimmy a true friend i found out yesterday afternoon and still cant believe it i am numb shocked and devastated for Carol,Ian,Hayley and Leah.
You will be missed big time.

R.I.P Jim, a really nice man, who will be deeply missed. My thoughts go out to Jim's family.

RIP Jim, Jim and I were not what you'd call close friends, we were more aquaintances and he took the mickey out of me every time I saw him, but he once listened to me rant on for ages about a problem I had and helped me sort it out. That's the kind of bloke he was, had time for everyone.

Sleep tight Jim x

I hope you enjoyed that today Jimmy , you would have had the best seat in the house