Limerick Foxes fan Mike left in shock after tragic Leicester helicopter crash

A COUNTY Limerick Leicester City fan has spoken of his shock at the tragic death of club owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha.

The owner of the Foxes was one of five passengers who perished in a helicopter crash on Saturday just after the side’s game against West Ham United, sparking shock and mourning across the football world.

Mike Buckley, who lives in Doon, learnt of the tragic news while looking at his telephone during the local GAA sides County Final against Na Piarsaigh.

”It was pure shock. It’s just terrible, really something you cannot comprehend,” said Mike, who is the former owner of Jock’s Bar in the East Limerick village.

He had never met the popular club owner in person, but remembers seeing him on several occasions when visiting the club’s King Power Stadium to witness his heroes in action.

Referring to Leicester City’s miraculous Premier League title win, Mike said owner Mr Srivaddhanaprabha: “brought us from near nothing to where we are today. He took us into dreamland, plus he did so much more for the city of Leicester.”

Although he is planning to travel to England’s East Midlands early in the New Year, Mike is hoping to organise a table quiz in Doon, with the proceeds going to one of the charities in Leicester which Mr Srivaddhanaprabha supported with such heart.

Although he was born in Leicester, Mike moved to Ireland at the age of two.

He has supported the Foxes all his life.