Terminally-ill Derby County fan tearful at message from Warne

Derby County fan Colin Attenborough was told he had cancer just before Christmas

A community champion with terminal cancer has received a surprise message of support from the manager of his boyhood team.

Derby County boss Paul Warne said his side would aim for promotion and do it for life-long fan Colin Attenborough.

The 87-year-old said he would "love it" if he could "hang on" to see the Rams return to the Championship.

Mr Attenborough, who was told he had pancreatic cancer before Christmas, said the message was "wonderful".

Mr Warne said everyone at the club sent their love to Mr Attenborough

He has been the chairman of Sinfin Moor Park in Derby for 15 years and recently had the newly-built pavilion named in his honour.

Mr Attenborough has overseen several projects in his time as chairman, including the planting of Jubilee Wood in 2012 and the introduction of the first two highland cattle.

"I'd love it if I could hang on to see Derby get back in the Championship - I just love them," he said.

'Keep smiling buddy'

BBC Radio Derby surprised Mr Attenborough with a special message from "the gaffer".

Mr Warne said: "It's sad that you're coming to the end of your life but you're 87 - that's a good innings my friend.

"I love the way you're saying that you've got to enjoy every day... I just hope the football team can give you some enjoyment and get promoted for loads of people but especially for people like yourself.

"I hope it can be sunshine on a rainy day for you... we are all sending out our love but keep smiling buddy."

Mr Attenborough wants to see Derby County return to the Championship before he dies

Holding back the tears, Mr Attenborough said the message was "wonderful".

"I've got a few tears in my eyes. I'd like to say thank you to Paul [because] that's really lifted me up.

"That's worth more than next year's season ticket which unfortunately I won't be using," he joked.

Asked what I would mean if the Rams got promoted, Mr Attenborough said: "It will be like winning a lottery ticket."