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Special fan honoured by Leeds United on 100th birthday

As a refugee from Nazism 80 years ago, Heinz Skyte's first trip was to Elland Road. Now the club has recognised his long-time support in its own centenary year

December 19, 2019 10:37
Heinz Skyte is presented with his celebratory shirt by Leeds chairman Andreas Radrizanni
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Arriving in Leeds 80 years ago as a refugee from Nazi Germany, Heinz Skyte immediately took a tram to Elland Road to watch Leeds play out a 1-1 draw with Everton in the company of his brother Frank.

At the weekend, Mr Skyte watched another drawn Leeds game (3-3 against Cardiff) as a special guest of the club in advance of his 100th birthday, which falls in United’s centenary season.

Mr Skyte and his son Peter were welcomed by club chairman Andrea Radrizanni and his wife Nedine, who presented the birthday boy with a personalised shirt.

Fleeing his home in a small town near Nuremberg after the events of Kristallnacht, Mr Skyte joined his brother in Leeds, who found him a job as a trainee presser in the clothing factory where he worked.