The Sunderland team march onto the pitch at the Stadium of Light to Prokofiev's 'Dance of the Knights' from Romeo and Juliet.  Even when very ill Allan would stand while it was played, whether at the match or listening on the radio.  If dialysis was on a match-day, he took his radio or mini tv set with him so he didn't miss the coverage.
We played it at his funeral, he was wearing his Sunderland shirt.
As you listen, picture Allan standing proudly, ready to cheer his team on to victory.

Within hours of hearing about Allan's death, Niall Quinn (former Sunderland AFC player, then manager, now Chairman) sent the following email to David.....

Dear David,

 It was with great sadness that I learned of your brother Allan's sudden death at the Freeman Hospital on 27th May.  Naturally I understand the incredibly difficult time you and your family are going through right now.  Words ring hollow at such a dreadful occurrence but I would sincerely like to offer the condolences of my family and I to you all.  It may comfort you little but I truly remember a coaching school at Peterlee and in particular the young Sunderland fan who, despite his obvious illness, managed to epitomize all that is golden about football.  This he achieved through his attention to detail, his desire to improve and his courage to dig deep into his heart and overcome.
Such bravery cannot easily be forgotten.

All of this happened at a time when, arguably, Sunderland AFC was enjoying one of its healthiest periods and perhaps a few of us players were starting to get fancy ideas about ourselves.  In hindsight it was days with kids like Allan that brought us back to reality and helped us to understand how vital it is to recognize the importance of community inter-action between club and fan in return for such devoted support.

I was fortunate to enjoy the dream life of a footballer for twenty years even though there were far too many times when I got wrapped up in my own importance.  It was only on days spent with heroes like Allan Walton that I understood the insignificance of self glory and the reality that a young teenager had taught me more about life skills than I could ever learn in a hundred years of professional football.  Though you and the rest of the family will have a million memories of a remarkable young life, I would like you all to know how grateful I am that I met and befriended Allan and that his wonderful attitude meant so much.

David if there's anything you would like me to do around the time of the funeral please say the word.  Dimpna will be in touch regarding the funeral arrangements, I do hope the ceremony befits his great life.

Yours sincerly,

Niall Quinn

PS Allan was in my children's prayers tonight.

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This moving and much cherished letter was followed by a beautiful red and white wreath for Allan.