Wigan Warriors go green in special Derian House takeover with a famous actor in attendance
The Brick Community Stadium became a sea of green as Wigan Warriors fans answered the call to support Derian House Children's Hospice during a special take-over game.
As part of their 2026 charity partnership, the Derian House dedicated fixture raised £6,719.29 for the hospice that currently supports 58 children and families from the Wigan area and more than 400 across the North West.
The Warriors ran out to a roaring atmosphere in the specially designed “Holly’s Kit” – inspired by Wigan five-year-old Holly Prince, whose family were supported by Derian House in the final weeks of her life.
Derian House families, volunteers, staff and Wigan supporters filled the stands in green – with many also donning Holly’s Kit - to back the hospice.
The League of Gentlemen’s Steve Pemberton, who is an ambassador for the Chorley-based charity, made a special appearance to meet with families and fans before kick-off – and delivered a heart-warming half-time speech, calling the hospice “a local charity for local people”.
Evan, 18, of Wigan, who is supported by Derian House, followed the players onto the pitch to deliver the match ball as the crowds cheered.
“It was really cool and I’m glad I got to do that,” said Evan, who was also thrilled to see the players run out to warm up in jerseys designed by him and other young people at Derian House Children's Hospice.
Young people supported by the hospice formed a guard of honour to welcome players onto the pitch, while siblings waved the Warriors’ flag as part of the pre-match build-up.
Mascots Danni and Mighty Max went head-to-head in a race alongside Derian siblings Annabel and Charlie that had fans on the edge of their seats.
Off the field, players including Jake Wardle and Oliver Wilson joined the Derian House Fan Village takeover – helping out on the fundraising stalls.
Activities included spin-the-wheel games, a chocolate tombola and flag decorating, while Wigan super fans Ada, Cora and Grace raised £740 at their stall selling handmade friendship bracelets in aid of the hospice.
Shirts worn and signed by Bevan French, Patrick Mago, and Liam Marshall were auctioned off, raising £2,100 for the hospice - with Liam’s raising £1,000 alone. And Adam Keighran donated his shirt to Derian House for the charity to raffle off.
Ice creams were provided by Raheim of North West Whippy, who made Derian House branded waffles especially for the occasion – who also donated £537 of his profit from the day.
The Derian Dads Bereavement Group rallied support across the stadium with bucket collections, raising £1,359.92 for the charity.
While the result went against the Warriors, ending on 14-24 to Castleford Tigers, the Derian House takeover proved to be a powerful showcase of community support - with Holly’s legacy, Derian House families and the wider Wigan community at its heart.
Derian House chief executive Karen Edwards said: “The Derian House takeover game showed the true power of our partnership with Wigan Warriors.
"To see the stadium turned green, with families, supporters and the club all coming together, was incredibly moving.
"Every pound raised and every conversation started helps us continue caring for children and families who need us most.”
Derian House currently supports 58 children and families from the Wigan area and more than 400 across the North West, providing specialist respite, palliative and end-of-life care, as well as emotional and practical support for families at no cost.
Warriors CEO Kris Radlinski added: “This club has always been about more than rugby. It’s about community, trust, and giving back.
"It’s about fans standing with families, and backing a charity that does extraordinary work for children and young people across our town and region.”