The club is saddened to learn of the passing of former player Leslie Campbell, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 84.
"Les Campbell Joined Preston North End in the summer of 1953 having played just five games for non-league Wigan Athletic.
Young Les was to finish his apprenticeship, that of an electrician, prior to joining the Club full time. Even then his appearances were hampered by him having to do his National Services duties with the Royal Air Force.
One of the smallest players to play for the North End at just 5’ 2”, little Les always did his best when chosen to play, albeit mainly as Tom Finney’s understudy.
Even so Les was to play 70 league and FA Cup games for the Lilywhites before joining Blackpool in 1960. After a short spell at the seaside he was to join Tranmere Rovers for whom he made over 100 appearances.
Les has the distinction of claiming that he played in the same team as Sir Tom Finney (at Preston) and Sir Stanley Matthews (at Blackpool).
I believe only Tommy Thompson can match that, playing with Tom at Preston and Stan at Stoke City.
Les, a very keen church organ player, was a member of the PNE Former Players’ Association and will be sadly missed by those who knew him."
Words by Ian Rigby - Honorary Club Historian