The son of the late Leicester City owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha has written a heartbreaking message pledging to continue his father’s work.
Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha – who is often referred to as ‘Top’ – now has control over his father’s businesses, and has described his father as being his ‘mentor and role model’.
Writing to followers of the club, the Leicester vice-chairman said:
I would like to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for this overwhelming support.
What happened made me realise how important my dad was to many people all over the world and I’m touched by how many people kept him close to their hearts.
I am extremely proud to have such an extraordinary father. From him, I have received a very big mission and legacy to pass on and I intend to do just that.
He continued:
I know that I will receive the support I need to make this happen and I am so grateful for all your messages and kind words.
For a long time, my father taught me to be strong and to take care of my family.
He had a way of teaching me about life and work without making it seem like a lesson. He was my mentor and role model.
Top went on to discuss his father’s legacy:
Today, he left me with a legacy to continue and I will do everything I can to carry on his big vision and dreams.
My family and I would like to thank each and every one of you for your sincere kindness and good intentions during the most difficult time for us.
I miss you dad, with all of my heart.
Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha died at the age of sixty alongside four other people in a tragic helicopter accident close to the King Power Stadium on Saturday, October 27.
A minute’s silence will take place at all Premier League matches over the weekend, with players wearing black armbands to show respect for the popular Leicester owner, who helped Leicester win the 2015/16 Premier League and earn a place in the Champions League.
Our thoughts are with the family of Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, Nusara Suknamai, Kaveporn Punpare Eric Swaffer and Izabela Roza Lechowicz at this difficult time.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677.
If you have a story you want to tell send it to UNILAD via stories@unilad.co.uk
Jules studied English Literature with Creative Writing at Lancaster University before earning her masters in International Relations at Leiden University in The Netherlands (Hoi!). She then trained as a journalist through News Associates in Manchester. Jules has previously worked as a mental health blogger, copywriter and freelancer for various publications.