Tributes flood in after death of Doncaster football fan who created club's motto

Ricky Hartley, who lived in Askern, was a fervent Sheffield Wednesday supporter and was famed among fellow Owls fans for his distinctive rastafarian cap and for asking fans: “We’re all Wednesday aren’t we?”

The slogan – often abbreviated to WAWAW – has become the calling card and slogan of supporters of the Hillsborough club – and Ricky, who followed the club all over the country is credited with starting and popularising the chant.

One fan wrote on X, formerly Twitter: “Rest in peace Ricky. The original who started WAWAW.”

Another posted: “Sad news today RIP Rasta Ricky – what a bloke.”

Another friend wrote: “RIP Rasta Ricky - absolutely gobsmacked. Another Askern legend gone – you was never short of a story or two. Fly high.”

“Good night, God bless,” shared another, you will be well and truly missed. Ask St Peter at the Pearly Gates if he's Wednesday or what?

"And tell the good lord, "We're all Wednesday aren't we?” RIP mate.”

Another pal wrote: “Ricky Hartley R.I.P. A wonderful bloke, your passion for Sheffield Wednesday was known with us all, but still a Donny man who we all had time for any day come rain or shine.

“Missing you already pal. fly high big man.”

Another wrote: “R.I.P Ricky Hartley – what a legend, always been a gentleman to me will be deeply missed thoughts go out to your family.”