Supporters of Leeds Rhinos and Wakefield Trinity Wildcats are reminded that there will be a minutes silence before kick off on Boxing Day to remember those players and supporters who have passed away in the last twelve months.

The past year has seen tragedy befall both clubs with former Leeds Academy player Andrew Curwell dying whilst on holiday back in June and Wakefield player Leon Walker, who played in the corresponding fixture last year, losing his life whilst playing for the Wildcats against Celtic Crusaders in March this year.

Leeds legend John Holmes also passed away in 2009 along with former players Billy Pratt, Brian Hughes and Jack Newbound.

Commenting on the minutes silence Chief Executive Gary Hetherington commented, "This was something that we introduced last year and we have asked fans to email the club with the names of loved ones who have passed away this year and they have been included in the matchday programme on Boxing Day along with obituaries for the former players.

"We often receive requests for a minutes silence at games but these are reserved for outstanding servants to the club. However, on Boxing Day we have the chance to remember all those connected with the club who have passed away. It is fitting that this happens on Boxing Day, as traditionally this is a game that families attend together and they can remember those loved ones who perhaps used to come to games alongside them and who are no longer with us.

"We would urge fans to allow extra time to get to the ground so they are in position to begin the minutes silence in the correct manner before kick off at 11.30am on Boxing Day," added Hetherington.