AROUND 300 people flocked to the funeral of a popular Leigh Centurions commentator yesterday morning, Wednesday.

A packed out service at Howe Bridge Crematorium for Phil Todoric, who was the face of LCTV's Centurion Cam and a commentator for his beloved club, saw people queueing outside to listen to celebrant Stuart Preston.

Some wore Centurions shirts in tribute to Phil's passion for his side.

The dad-of-one was the landlord of The Boars Head on Market Place in Leigh for the last four years in which he organised regular events for his punters, often leaving himself out of pocket.

He was taken ill on December 5 and died at the age of 38 on Wednesday, December 19.

Leigh Centurions players were among the mourners who listened to stories about the life of Phil, who was affectionately known as "Toddy", being told in the service.

At the service Mr Preston said: "Phil was a family man and a best mate to many people.

"He was outgoing and never had a problem making friends as he grew up and was always trying to make people smile.

"Phil lived life to the fullest.

"He supported Leigh Centurions through the good times and the bad.

"No one will ever forget the legacy he leaves behind."

The celebrant read tributes from Leigh Centurions operations director Steve Openshaw and his LCTV colleagues Matty Atkin and Ryan Taylor where his bubbly and loyal character recognised.

In his career Phil trained as a chef where he worked at his rugby club's former stadium Hilton Park.

He also had a job as a boiler salesman where his "gift of the gab" led to him performing successfully.

Later on he took the reigns at The Boars Head where his popularity in his hometown grew.

Phil leaves behind his wife of 10 years Claire and their six-year-old daughter Lola.

He met Claire at the age of 23 and they shared a love of one of Phil's other sporting passions, WWE wrestling.

They got married at St Joseph's RC Church on Mather Lane on June 14, 2008.

Mr Preston added: "Phil loved taking his wife and Lola out to places to show them off.

"Lola is a chip off the old block and does impressions of him.

"He was so proud of Lola."

The celebrant added that Claire wanted to thank everyone for their support and that people's kindness and messages have been a source of comfort to her and the family.

The Stone Roses' song This is the One was played as the service drew to a close.

The funeral party headed to The Boars Head to share memories about Toddy afterwards.