Hundreds of Blues fans marched to St Andrew’s, honoring Leo Ross, a beloved schoolboy tragically lost to knife violence.
Birmingham: Fans gathered to remember Leo Ross, a schoolboy who was tragically killed. They met at The Roost pub and marched to St Andrew’s. It was a chilly afternoon, but the spirit was warm.
Supporters held balloons and flowers, chanting “Leo Ross is one of our own.” They walked for about five minutes to the stadium. At the Kop car park, they placed wreaths next to Leo’s picture and an anti-knife crime banner.
Many fans were emotional, releasing blue and white balloons into the sky. Just weeks before his death, Leo had been a flag bearer at a Blues game. Fans cheered outside St Andrew’s before the match against Rotherham.
During the match, they planned to clap in the 12th minute for Leo. Sukh Singh, the Official Supporters’ Club chairman, expressed the importance of remembering their own. He noted the gathering showed the love and support for Leo.
Keith Batchelor, a season ticket holder, shared that Leo was from his area and a big Blues fan. He emphasized the need for awareness about knife crime. Jayo, another lifelong fan, mentioned the community’s connection and the tragic reason for the gathering.
Supporter Tony Routley highlighted the need for education on knife crime in schools. A Blues staff member reminded everyone that Leo had been a flag bearer just weeks ago. They created a shirt with his name to honor his memory.
