LEIGH Centurions have led tributes following the sudden passing of Phil Todoric, LCTV’s face of Centurion Cam and commentator.

Toddy, as he was affectionately known, was taken to hospital after falling ill at the start of the month, but sadly remained there.

His death has been greeted by shock and sadness in the Leigh rugby league community.

Leigh Centurions operations director Steve Openshaw said: "Phil, or Toddy as everyone affectionately knew him as, was simply a brilliant and loyal character. He was a lifelong supporter of the club and key member of the LCTV team.

"The players and staff knew him well, and we all convey our sadness. I am proud to have known Toddy for several years and counted him as a good friend, if I ever needed an honest ground level opinion I knew Toddy’s would always be genuine and reliable. He will be sadly missed by all, and my thoughts are with his family.”

LCTV colleagues Matty Atkin and Ryan Taylor both paid tribute.

Atkin said: "Sadly, Phil was taken to hospital on the 5th of December due to illness and has remained there since.

"Phil was a bundle of joy when he had hold of the microphone or when he was in front of the camera, making people laugh with his puns and jokes whilst also accurately commentating on the games.

"He was a proper Leigh lad and was since he was born, attending near enough every home and away game! Joe (Wood), Ryan and me will all miss him at LCTV."

Taylor said: “It was a real privilege to work alongside Phil for LCTV; I remember my first game working with him away at Warrington in the 8s, which was my first game leading the commentary and he made me feel so at ease and comfortable, which helped me gain confidence in what I was doing.

"I will also never forget the Challenge Cup game at Batley when Phil and I had to commentate in the freezing cold, and it was one of the funniest games to commentate on due to Phil. He was a top person and will be sorely missed on LCTV."

Atkin added: “It surely is a massive shock to us all, Phil knew near enough every Leyther in the LSV stadium as he was a popular person. At first there was no Centurion Cam, Phil offered to come and do some videos with myself with the addition of commentating, he never expected anything in return from myself or the club.

"He loved being in front of that camera and making people laugh. Before coming on board with LCTV, I know he liked to attend the match by either sponsoring it or being involved with the Premier Club. Phil loved the game of rugby league and playing his part at Leigh. He was a top bloke with a heart of gold and he will be missed by all.”

A crowdfunding page has been set up in aid of Phil's family.

To donate to it click here.