Rovers players pay tribute to tragic Siobhan

5:16pm Sunday 6th April 2008

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A WOMAN who helped look after young Blackburn Rovers stars and raised thousands of pounds for charity has died of cancer aged 42.

Siobhan Cooper from George Street, Rishton, attended to the swimming pool at Blackburn Rovers and helped look after players such as David Dunn and Steven Reid when they first joined the club.

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She died on April 2 at the East Lancashire Hospice from secondary liver cancer after being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005.

Her father, Mick Morgan, paid tribute to her as a "lovely, generous woman who cared about other people more than herself."

He added: "I have wonderful memories of her - she was a wonderful daughter and friend."

Siobhan went into remission for breast cancer last year, however, the cancer returned in November.

A dedicated fundraiser, Siobhan helped raise money for the oncology unit at Christie's Hospital in Manchester after her friend died from cancer aged 24.

After her own treatment at the Rosemere Cancer Centre at the Royal Preston Hospital, she organised a charity ball last year to help a £650,000 appeal for a new scanner.

She also held an auction at Langho Football Club for charity, with signed shirts and boots from the likes of Robbie Savage, David Bentley, Matt Derbyshire, Paul Gallagher and Steven Reid. Dutch international Andre Ooijer donated his World Cup jersey.

Another charity ball in aid of the Rosemere Centre will be taking place on May 3 at Old Langho Football Club.

Siobhan organised the event from her sick bed.

Her sister, Ann-Marie Bellanca, said: "She was just a fantastic person.

"We're carrying on with the fundraising - she'd go mad if we gave up on it.

"It was a focus for her and it is her legacy.

"She gave her all to charity."

Blackburn Rover's footballers have been expressing their sadness at Siobhan's death.

Rovers midfielder David Dunn, said: "I went to school with Siobhan's nephew and know the family well.

"She was around for my days soon after I joined Rovers and was always cheerful and pleasant with everyone.

"Everyone is saddened to her of her passing at a ridiculously young age.

"I feel I have lost a colleague and a friend."

Andre Ooijer, Rover's Dutch international defender said: "Although I'm a relative newcomer I got to know Siobhan well when I was recovering from a broken leg last year.

"I also attended the annual fundraising dinner she organised and was aware of all the work she did for charity research.

"She was a great lady and my condolences go out to her family at this sad time."

She leaves a son, 12-year-old Morgan John, and 20-year-old daughter Lauren Ann.

Her funeral will take place in St Mary's RC Church, Langho on Wednesday, April 9 at 2pm.