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Nearly 18,000 people have signed a petition calling for there to be a statue of Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha outside of Leicester’s King Power stadium.

Scores of Leicester City fans have signed the change-org petition for a tribute statue of the club’s owner outside the grounds.

Tributes have poured in from football players , celebrities and royalty for Mr Srivaddhanaprabha, following his death on Saturday. He was killed along with four others when his helicopter spiralled out of control and crashed to the ground just moments after taking off from the pitch.

The Duke of Cambridge led tributes for the Thai businessman, calling him a man who was “dedicated to his family and who supported a number of important charities.”

The petition, which was only set up a day ago, read: “Vichai chose Leicester when we were riddled with debt, he got us out of the debt and made us the club we are today.

“We owe Vichai and his family everything. Please if you’re a Leicester fan or a football fan sign this petition for a statue to be placed outside the King Power Stadium in memory of Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha.

“Let’s get as many votes as possible and us as fans fund this.”

Both football fans and well-wishers signed the petition. By 2pm on Monday, it has nearly 18,000 signatures.

Karen Hollings wrote: “He was an amazing man did so much for Leicester city and other charities in Leicester. Deepest condolences to his family rest in peace.”

While Steve Kitchen wrote: “This man was an inspiration, not only to LCFC, but the Leicestershire community. His place is reserved for the statue.”

The petition also attracted support from supporters who are not fans of the club.

Oliver Catchpole wrote: “I’m not a Leicester City fan, but [he] deserves so much recognition.”

Mr Srivaddhanaprabha was among five people killed when an aircraft came down outside the King Power Stadium on Saturday, shortly after the team's 1-1 draw with West Ham.

The others who died were his assistant Nursara Suknamai and Kaveporn Punpare, another member of Mr Srivaddhanaprabha's staff.

Pilot Eric Swaffer and passenger Izabela Roza Lechowicz also died in the crash. Mr Swaffer has been hailed a hero for directing the out-of-control helicopter away from crowds of fans.

The Prime Minister also paid her respects on Monday morning.

Theresa May tweeted: “My thoughts are with those family, friends and supporters connected to the tragic crash outside Leicester City’s stadium on Saturday night. The outpouring of grief is a testament to how many people’s lives were touched by those on board.”

The petition can be viewed here.