Wigan Athletic and Wigan Warriors are coming together to pay tribute to a beloved fan, Darren Orme, whose body was discovered on March 24, 2025, after he had been missing for nearly three weeks. The 54-year-old was last seen on March 5, around 9 PM, near the junction of Woodhouse Lane, Scot Lane, and Beech Hill, prompting extensive searches by local authorities and volunteers.
Orme, a passionate supporter of both clubs, was known for his tireless dedication to the teams he loved. His disappearance had shaken the Wigan community, with fans from both sides uniting in their efforts to find him. Tragically, his body was located along a stretch of the River Douglas near Stadium Way, close to The Brick Community Stadium, where he was a familiar face.
In light of this loss, the Official Wigan Athletic Supporters Group expressed their devastation, stating, "Darren was Wigan Athletic through and through, and he lived and breathed blue and white. We know that Darren will always be cheering Latics on in spirit." The sentiment was echoed by Wigan Warriors, who also recognized Orme as a cherished figure among their supporters.
To honor Orme's memory, both clubs have planned a minute's applause at their upcoming matches. Wigan Athletic will pay tribute during their home game against Barnsley on March 29, while Wigan Warriors will hold a similar tribute before their game against Salford on March 30. The clubs have invited fans to lay flowers, shirts, and scarves at The Brick Community Stadium, particularly near the statue of Dave Whelan, and a Book of Condolences will be available for supporters to sign.
Orme's passing has left a significant impact on the local community. His family released a statement confirming the news of his death, and social media has been flooded with tributes from fans reflecting on the joy he brought to the community. The Latics had previously unveiled a missing person banner ahead of their game against Charlton Athletic on March 15, showing the depth of concern for their fellow supporter.
In addition to the tributes, a crowdfunding appeal has been established to assist with Orme's funeral costs, with any remaining funds directed to the Wigan Athletic Academy and the charity Andy's Man Club. This initiative demonstrates the community's commitment to supporting Orme's family during this difficult time.
Wigan Athletic head coach Ryan Lowe emphasized the importance of channeling the emotional energy from this tragedy into a strong performance on the pitch. He stated, "It's massively important to do that. We will be using that as a motivational message to the players. It's a desperately sad situation, may he rest in peace now, and all our thoughts are with him and his family now. Hopefully, we can pay tribute to him this weekend with a good performance and a positive result."
Latics defender James Carragher, who was away with the Malta national team when he learned of Orme's passing, shared his sentiments: "The news broke while I was away with Malta, and it was just horrible to hear, devastating for everyone concerned. It's awful news, but it absolutely gives us even more incentive to get the win for him."
As the Wigan community mourns the loss of Darren Orme, the outpouring of support from fans, players, and coaches alike highlights the strong bonds that exist within this close-knit area. The tributes and memorials serve as a reminder of the impact one individual can have on a community and the shared love for sport that unites them.
On the rugby side, Wigan Warriors also laid a wreath outside The Brick Community Stadium in memory of Orme. The heartfelt gesture was part of a broader effort to honor a man who was not only a fan but a fixture at games, known for his enthusiasm and loyalty. The Warriors expressed their condolences, stating, "We join in sending our sincerest condolences to Darren’s friends and family, and we ask supporters to respect their privacy during this extremely difficult time."
The upcoming games on March 29 and 30 will not only serve as a platform for honoring Orme but also as an opportunity for fans to come together in solidarity, reflecting on the joy that sports can bring, even amidst tragedy. The heartfelt tributes and community support are a testament to Orme's legacy as a dedicated supporter who will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.
As the clubs prepare for their matches, the message is clear: Darren Orme may be gone, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who shared the stands with him. The minute's applause will resonate with the love and respect he garnered over the years, reminding everyone of the vibrant community that surrounds Wigan Athletic and Wigan Warriors.
