Garden in memory of '˜yellowman' David

The money, donated by ‘Friends of Yellowman,’ will fund landscaping and improvements to create a ‘beautiful place of calm and reflection’ in memory of David ‘Yellowman’ Middleton, who spent his last days at the hospice in 2013 after battling a rare form of gall bladder cancer.

Hospice chief executive Christopher Duff said: “This generous donation will allow us to replant and landscape our valued, but sadly neglected, garden so that hundreds of hospice patients, and their loved ones can enjoy a beautiful, calming outdoor oasis at this critical time, helping them to achieve the best quality of life and create special memories.”

The planned landscaping, around the patio and tea garden, will also provide a fitting backdrop for the recently unveiled ‘Tree of Life,’ a stunning three-metre sculpture by Man of Steel creator Steve Mehdi, which will celebrate the Hospice’s 20th year later this year.

The wife of ‘Yellowman’ - a nickname given to David by Blades fans who were used to seeing him sat behind the goal in his bright yellow sweatshirt - Fiona Middleton visited the hospice to see how the ‘Friends of Yellowman’ funds would be spent. She said: “The Hospice work exceptionally hard to enable patients to have comfort and dignity with great care and comfortable rooms, but many of the patients miss their own gardens or getting outside. we are thrilled that our fundraising, in memory of David, will provide families and carers with a green space they can enjoy.

“With so many volunteers committed to the work, we know the money will have maximum impact.”