TRIBUTES have been paid to a 36-year-old Blackburn Rovers supporter who has died.

Matthew Green was taken ill while travelling to Ewood Park to watch his beloved team against Preston on Saturday.

The 36-year-old, from Accrington, had worked as a warehouse operative at Express Gifts in Church for 17 years.

A family spokesman said Mr Green had a strong work ethic, which made him a well-liked and popular member of the team there.

The spokesman said: “He was a lifelong, avid Blackburn Rovers supporter and season ticket-holder and he always looked forward to attending match days.

“He enjoyed socialising, loved a pint of lager and loved to get out for a meal with his wife and best friend Jacqui who he married in 2018.

“They enjoyed the most amazing honeymoon in Portugal.

“Matt was loved by all his family and friends.”

Following a successful social media call-out by Mr Green’s sister, Michelle, thousands of football fans applauded in the 36th minute in memory of Mr Green during the 3-0 win against Wigan on Tuesday night.

Hundreds of people have paid tribute to the Rovers fan, who had a season ticket in the Blackburn End, on social media including former Blackburn Rovers midfielder David Dunn who tweeted “Such sad news” and retweeted a post from Michelle.

Other online tributes came from old friends, including John Pickup, who tweeted: “Sad to hear this, very sorry for your loss.

“I went to school with Matt, he was always a good guy.”

Matt Holden tweeted: “Sorry for your loss Michelle, I knew Matt in junior school.

“Thoughts are with your family at this time.”

Family and friends have organised a walk to honour Mr Green when Rovers play Stoke at 3pm on Saturday, April 6 at Ewood Park.

Those who wish to remember Mr Green are asked to meet at the Golden Cup pub in Blackburn Road, Lower Darwen, and walk to the game.

Mr Green leaves parents Janet and Michael, siblings Amanda, Michelle, Dean and Ryan, brother-in-law and sister-in-law Jim and Kate.

The funeral will take place on Wednesday, March 20, at Accrington Crematorium in Burnley Road, Accrington, at 3pm.

Donations are being received in memory of Mr Green on behalf of Royal Preston Hospital Critical Care Endowment Fund.

A gofundme page has been set up by a family friend to help raise money towards funeral costs.

Those who wish to donate can visit www.gofundme.com and search ‘Matthew Green’.