He was admired by those in the sporting world and big hearted Newcastle United players have shown their support as boxer Scott Westgarth’s family prepare for his funeral.

Scott, originally from Prudhoe, Northumberland, was a huge Magpie fan and followed them from being a child. But after his death in February his loved ones have been planning a funeral that would be special.

Now the NUFC team and manager Rafa Benitez have signed a black and white shirt to place on top of the coffin at his funeral service on May 29.

And caring Rafa put his thoughts on paper and sent Scott’s grieving mum Rebecca Marshall a moving letter as she remembers her son.

(Image: newcastle chronicle)

The letter said:

“Dear Rebecca, I have been told by my staff about the tragic passing of your son Scott. I am very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and those of everyone at Newcastle United will be with you and your family on the day of his funeral.

“I know that Scott was a big fan of Newcastle United and although he couldn’t come to many games since moving to Sheffield he enjoyed telephone conversations with his grandad about the latest games and news about the players and the club in general.

“It sounds as though Scott made a great name for himself in his own sport of boxing and I’m sure he made you and your family very proud.

“I hope the enclosed shirt which has been signed by all the players will be a fitting symbol of his passion for Newcastle United.

“With our sincere condolences for your loss, Rafa Benitez, manager.”

(Image: newcastle chronicle)

Scott was rushed to hospital after falling ill backstage following his victory over Dec Spelman at the Doncaster Dome on February 24, his death was confirmed two days later.

The 31-year-old will be cremated in Sheffield in an emotional ceremony attended by his family and friends.

Mum Rebecca, 58, who still lives in Prudhoe, said: “Scott was always a big Newcastle United fan but he moved away to Sheffield when he was about 18. But no matter where he was he would still follow them. It was so nice of the team and Rafa to sign the shirt for Scott and that will go on top of his coffin. I know Scott will be saying ‘mother, I’ve never had a brand new shirt for years and I’ve got one now’.

(Image: newcastle chronicle)

“And for Rafa to write a letter to me was lovely. We are so thankful to Rafa and the team for doing this for us, It shows their human side.”

Scott’s funeral service will be held at Grenoside Crematorium, Sheffield, on Tuesday, May 29, at 2pm.

Rebecca will be joined by sons Adam, 35 and Lewis, 21, along with his dad John, 58, and Scott’s girlfriend Natalie Kerr.

It is believed Scott, who built his life in Sheffield after leaving the region, died from brain trauma but an inquest has been launched.

Final details of the funeral are yet to be arranged but it will feature one special song - ‘Hall of Fame’ by the Script and will.i.am.

(Image: PA)

A spokeswoman for Newcastle United said: “We were all saddened to hear of Scott’s death and of course eager to help support his family in their grief in whatever small way we could. Scott’s mother Rebecca thought it would be fitting for a Newcastle United shirt to be displayed at his funeral and Rafa wanted to add a personal note of condolence himself. It costs nothing and yet means so much. We send our thoughts and best wishes to his family.”

On his last fight the former Prudhoe Community High School pupil won on points, but was knocked down during the bout. He took part in post-fight interviews before paramedics were called to help him as his condition deteriorated.

Part-time chef and personal trainer Scott, who had also tried his hand as a footballer before turning to boxing, collapsed in his dressing room before being rushed to hospital.

After his death a GoFundMe page was set up in his memory to help his stricken family which has already raised almost £10,000.

His brother Adam has also launched a petition to make it law for brain scanners to be on hand at all bouts

Scott, who also leaves doting grandparents Richard and Marion Tweddle, had won seven of his 10 professional fights. He had no amateur career and did not pick up a pair of gloves until he was 24 after years of working as a ski instructor.

Scott’s dad John - nicknamed ‘Mean Machine’ - was a heavyweight in the 1980s and 1990s who boxed for the European title. He shared the ring with the likes of Herbie Hide, Razor Ruddock, Derek Williams and Glenn McCrory.

His death saddened the sporting world and boxing greats took to social media to pay tribute to light heavyweight Scott.

Frank Bruno tweeted: “Very saddened to hear a boxer has lost his life, my thoughts are with his family at this difficult time. RIP Scott Westgarth.”

Ricky Hatton also took to Twitter and said: “Heartbreaking this. Thoughts to his friends and family. And to anyone involved in the show. Rest in peace young man x.”

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Anyone wanting to donate can visit www.gofundme.com/scott-westgarth

To sign Adam’s petition, visit https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/216069