Wigan Warriors fan surprised with an unforgettable experience

For devoted Wigan Warriors supporter, Peter Adshead, what he expected to be a regular visit to watch his rugby team in action turned out to be the trip of a lifetime when the 74-year-old was met with a meet-and-greet with his heroes – all thanks to his team of support workers and companions from Belong at Home and St Cuthbert’s amateur rugby club.
Having watched the local rugby league legends compete their way to another stunning league match victory at the DW Stadium, he got the chance to personally congratulate the team, including favourite players, props, Liam Byrne and Ethan Havard. Adding to the occasion’s excitement, the cherry (and whites) on top was the invitation to see up-close the Challenge Cup, the knockout competition trophy won by the club for a record 20th time, earlier this year.
The day was made possible by St Cuthbert’s, and community carer, Paula, who accompanied Peter to the match as part of her job with Belong at Home Atherton, a not-for-profit care service that supports people in their own homes. Homecare.co.uk recently named it one of the country’s Top 20 Home Care Groups.
Paula explains more: “I enjoyed doing something special with Peter. Personal care and help around the home are big parts of my job but it’s also about being a friend and doing fun things together – it really meant a lot to him, and for me, having the opportunity to go to the match with him and see him having fun is what makes work very rewarding.”
Originally from Scotland, Peter became a Warriors fan after moving to the area with his family in the late 1980s. He’s also a regular face in the stands at St Cuthbert’s, who kindly supplied the match tickets. On the rare occasions he isn’t watching the sport, he can be found enjoying activities and events in the company of others like him at Belong Atherton care village, where Paula is based.
Commenting on his experience, Peter Adshead, said: “The day out was just wonderful. Whenever the Warriors scored, I jumped out of my seat! I’m very grateful to Paula for taking me to the match so I could support my team, and being able to meet the players and see the Challenge Cup trophy are moments I’ll never forget.”
Pictured:
1: Peter Adshead with Liam Byrne
2: Peter Adshead with Ethan Havard
3: Peter Adshead holding the Challenge Cup