LIFELONG Bolton Wanderers fan Edward Wilkinson collapsed just before his beloved team played their final home match of the season — he lost his fight for life three days later, aged just 23.

Mr Wilkinson, who had learning difficulties and suffered from severe epilepsy, collapsed five minutes before the start of Wanderers’ match against West Bromwich Albion on May 6 in front of his parents Heather and Peter Wilkinson, from Easedale Road, Heaton.

First-aiders and the BWFC crowd doctor fought to save his life in the stand.

Mr Wilkinson was taken fromthe Reebok Stadium by ambulance as his footballing heroes were coming on to the pitch.

He was treated at the Royal Bolton Hospital but died in intensive care on May 9 — his mum’s 57th birthday — surrounded by his family, including his sister Victoria, aged 22, who had been travelling in Cambodia when her brother collapsed.

Mr Wilkinson had been a season ticket holder since he was aged eight.

His family said he “lived for the team”.

His mother, Mrs Wilkinson, said: “He didn’t care if they were in the bottom division or the Premier League, he was a very devoted fan. He was a Bolton lad through and through and had this passion for Bolton Wanderers.”

Mr Wilkinson, a former pupil at Greenfold School and Firwood School, suffered a brain haemorrhage when he was two weeks old, leaving him with disabilities including epilepsy.

He overcame his health problems and was sociable and outgoing, attending Jubilee Day Centre and trips to the pub and matches.

His family have received more than 300 condolence cards, including a floral arrangement from BWFC, and say they are still “arriving by the sackful”.

BWFC club chaplain Phil Mason added: “We are all deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Edward and we would like to offer our condolences to his family.”

The funeral was held on Thursday, May 17, at Christ Church, in Heaton, followed by private committal.