THE funeral of Chris Leatherbarrow, who passed away Sunday, will be held at Lowe House Church, St Helens on Friday, November 13 at 12.30pm.

A wake at Saints' Langtree Park will follow the funeral service, after a private burial.

His family have thanked all those who are supporting them at this most difficult time and have asked for the colour pink, including pink carnation flowers, to be worn at the service in memory of him.

It has also been confirmed that those officiating at games this weekend will wear black armbands in memory of Chris and that he will be remembered as part of a planned minute silence at the England v New Zealand game at the Olympic Stadium this weekend.

RFL Acting Head of Referees, Steve Ganson, said: “We are all devastated by the sudden passing of our fellow referee and friend, Chris Leatherbarrow.

"Chris served Rugby League for many years even though he was only 27 years old.

"His big personality and presence around us will be greatly missed."