The “Never Watch Alone Initiative” is intended to bring the local community together through football and Rugby League and will enable supporters with a learning disability to attend matches alongside their fellow ‘Buddy’ – as a friend not a carer – and live out the passion of watching the Latics or Warriors at the JJB Stadium with someone who enjoys the excitement of the match as well as the camaraderie and socialising before and after the game.

At an information evening over 80 people to find out more about the project and register their interest. On the evening itself 22 people signed up,12 of these being Wigan Warriors supporters, with many more taking forms away.

Since the evening there have been quite a few forms returned and much interest generated from fans of the Warriors. Project organisers said “ I think this is a really good response from the warriors fans bearing in mind the season as only just started.

The coverage on the Warriors website is fantastic.” Volunteers will receive training and support and hope that before long they will be enjoying the experience of buddying adults with learning disabilities.