TRIBUTES have poured in for a legendary Leicester City fan, who passed away at his care home last week.
Bernie Henson, was widely known among city fans for his painted face and Jester’s hat when he attended matches, both at home and away, right up until Covid hit.
The popular pensioner was 88 when he died last Thursday (February 10), at his Loughborough Care Home.
Tributes poured into the Foxes web forum following the announcement, which was made by Bernie’s carer Simon Marlow.
“Rest in peace Bernie, you truly did make us laugh and you truly were Leicester till you died,” said one fan online.
“There’s only one Bernie Henson.”
“There are many people who knew and loved him for his eccentricity but most of all for his love of his club,” added another.
“Bernie wasn’t just a bit of a crazy guy. He was super knowledgeable about Leicester and was full of stories from years ago. A true blue.”
During his many years as a devoted Foxes fan, Bernie used to cycle to watch the Foxes play at Norwich and Luton.
Once, he even hitch hiked to Edinburgh to see them play a friendly against Hibernian.
“I have great memories of bumping into you at many games both home and away over the years and one thing that no one could deny was your passion for the club,” said another tribute posted online.
“I hope there are many Forest Fans to taunt, A-roads to walk down, beer gardens to drink in, and winning goals to cheer as you deserve.”
At Leicester’s match against West Ham at the weekend, Foxes fans paid to Bernie by singing his name in the 88th minute.
In a poignant reminder of his absence, Bernie’s famous Jester hat was placed on his usual seat at the stadium, alongside a bunch of flowers.
Details of his funeral are yet to be released.
