Tribute pool match held for '˜gentleman' Farrell

A “reserved” plaque will also be installed at the bar of The Sun Hotel in Friargate, where Patrick Kilbane regularly sat.

Mr Kilbane, father of former Irish international and PNE footballer Kevin Kilbane, was known by his middle name, Farrell.

He died aged 64 on December 12, leaving friends and fellow pub regulars shocked.

Gillian Potter, said: “He was a real gentleman who made everyone feel welcome.

“It was a real shock when he died, I couldn’t believe it. We wanted to do something to commemorate him and the pool tournament and the plaque are very fitting.

“It will be quite touching to see the plaque installed.”

Eight players will battle it out on Monday from 7pm to win a new shield bearing Mr Kilbane’s name.

His two sons and brother are expected to be among the spectators who have been asked to wear green, to reflect his love of Celtic Football Club.

The plaque will read “reserved” and will carry Mr Kilbane’s name, date of birth and date of death.

Mr Kilbane was brought up in the Achill Island area of Mayo, west of Ireland.

When he emigrated to England, he settled in Preston and worked as a road digger and a labourer for an Irish firm.

He is widely credited with giving son Kevin his sense of “Irishness”.

In his autobiography, Kevin states: “I grew up Irishman living in England”.