Wigan Athletic fans who took part in the ‘Walk for Emma’ earlier this year have raised an amazing £18,000.
The 450 or so supporters left their cars and walked to the stadium for Wigan’s game against relegation rivals Bolton Wanderers at the Reebok Stadium. Nearly all of the donations for the Emma Hoolin appeal have now been handed over.
The total is currently just below £18,000 but it is expected to get past the mark once a few more pledges are received.
The organiser of the event, Barry Worthington, was unsure about how many people would take part in the fundraising event when he first came up with the idea.
But the event snowballed as the word got out and hundreds of people offered to join in with the march on 11th February.
Their charitable efforts were rewarded as they saw their team secure a 2-1 victory over their arch-rivals.
Barry said: “It’s absolutely fantastic how much has been raised and it is a testament to everyone who got involved. Originally we thought that a couple of grand would be remarkable so when we were closing in on the £10,000 mark we were delighted.
“But to nearly double that is just wonderful and it says a lot about the fans of this club and how they help one of their own. The whole day was perfect and it was rounded off with a great win. The atmosphere was something else on the walk. Although people were aching and what not it didn’t seem to matter.”
“The support from Latics has been fantastic right the way through and I know one of the ladies, Julie Lavin, who works at the club and took part in the walk received donations from some of the players.
“Another boost was when the coach passed the walkers and the players showed their appreciation by waving and clapping.
“Everyone still talks about the day today despite it being two months ago.
“To see Emma doing so well now back home and hearing she has started school is what it is all about though.
“We hope the money we raised can be part of helping her in her recovery process.”