The players from Heineken Cup rivals Leicester Tigers and Toulouse lined up in front of the Caterpillar Stand for the tribute, with many of Neil’s family, friends and colleagues from Josiah Hincks solicitors in the stadium.
Tigers were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Neil, the club solicitor, on New Year’s Day at the age of just 50 after a short illness.
Neil was joint managing partner of Leicester’s oldest firm of solicitors, Josiah Hincks, and a lifelong Tigers fan.
His funeral service last Tuesday was held at Leicester Cathedral and conducted by The Rt Rev Tim Stevens, Bishop of Leicester.
Tigers chairman, Peter Tom CBE, said: “Neil was an important part of the Tigers for a long time as our club solicitor and he was also a very good friend of many people at the club among the directors, staff, players and supporters.
“He has been a life-long Tigers fan and was a valued member of the team behind the scenes.
“The news of his death came as a great shock because he was ill for such a short time, but he faced it with his outstanding bravery, his main concerns were for his family and friends, and for his colleagues at Josiah Hincks, many of whom are here today.
“We pass on our sincerest condolences to his wife Jayne, sons Alex and James, and to all of his family, friends and colleagues.
“Having the Bishop of Leicester conduct the funeral service in Leicester Cathedral demonstrates Neil’s standing in the city and also the strength of support from friends, family and well-wishers. The tributes were heart-felt and generous, and Neil would have been very proud of the courage shown by Alex and James who both made personal statements at the service.”
