Listen to WIGAN CASINO (Live) Recording 7th June 1975 by Cris Walker Allen (Dr Crypt) for free. Follow Cris Walker Allen (Dr Crypt) to never miss another show. The Wigan Casino Years. 1,493 likes 25 talking about this. The first authoritative, year by year, account of Northern Soul during its heyday of the Wigan Casino years 1973-81.

Wigan Warriors, in conjunction with technical kit partner hummel, are delighted to unveil the Club’s 2021 away kit, which takes inspiration from the Northern Soul scene.

Wigan became a hub for Northern Soul in the 1970s with Wigan Casino, famed for its all-nighters, voted “The Best Disco in the World” by US magazine Billboard in 1978. Over four million people, many of whom travelled from around the UK, visited Wigan Casino across eight years prior to its closure in 1981.

The kit commemorates 40 years since the closure of the iconic Wigan Casino, and features a true blue colour scheme which represents Wigan’s heritage, having been used regularly on popular kits throughout the Club’s past.

The away shirt incorporates the Night Owl, inspired by a Wigan Casino classic from Bobby Paris which became an anthem for those of a “dancing all-night” disposition.

A wider range of Wigan Casino inspired merchandise will follow in due course, as part of the Club’s lifestyle range.

Wigan Warriors sales director, Geoff Warburton, commented: “We are delighted to pay tribute to the Northern Soul scene, much of which was centred around Wigan, as part of our 2021 away kit which also marks 40 years since the closure of the iconic Wigan Casino.

“Like ourselves, Northern Soul music is synonymous with Wigan and is still rooted in this town’s DNA.

“We know many of our fans grew up in the original Northern Soul era and hopefully this kit, plus an accompanying retail range which will follow, will bring back fantastic memories and also appeal to the current era of Northern Soul fans.

“We’re looking forward to sharing the stories of some of the figures involved in Wigan Casino throughout the year ahead, whilst playing our part in championing the Northern Soul scene.”

Winston Higham, a director at Wigan Warriors and a prominent member of the Wigan Casino scene, was involved in the creation of the original Night Owl.

He added: “In my younger years, Mike Walker – who was the manager of Wigan Casino in its heyday – got myself and fellow Wiganer Sean Gibney to manage graphic design where we were involved in many fantastic projects including the creation of the Night Owl.

“It’s an honour to be involved again after all these years in reworking the original Night Owl badge for the new kit.

“Northern Soul is having a great resurgence appealing to a new generation of fans and it’s good to see Wigan Warriors embracing this.”

Wigan Warriors 2021 away kit is now on sale online here.

Fans are advised that sales will be online only at present due to government restrictions regarding non-essential shops, although a contact-free click and collect service will be available from the reception at Robin Park Arena in line with government guidelines.

Collections can be made between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday from Monday 23rd November, although fans are asked to leave 24 hours before making a collection and are strongly urged to use the home delivery service where possible, in order to minimise non-essential journeys.

The 2021 away shirt is available in all sizes (from 0-6 months up to 8XL), priced at £39.99 for juniors and £49.99 for adults. Mini kits, plus shorts and socks, will also be available.

To experience a full interactive display of exciting content that helps to bring our new badge and its story to life, visit our badge microsite now.

Be among the first fans to get your hands on the new look by checking out our 2021 hummel replica kits, training range and travel wear in our online store.

Wigan Casino opened its doors in 1973 for its first ever Northern Soul all-nighter, with Russ Winstanley as the DJ. Many of the classic pieces worn at the casino have been recreated for a new generation of Northern Soul fans. Several styles carry the instantly recognisable embroidered badges designed by Russ Winstanley in the 70’s (accept no imitations) and many styles are based on original 70’s pieces.

Wigan Casino Now Open

• Wigan Casino Ecru & Gold Turtle Neck Ringer T-Shirt

  £30.00

  WC/2082 Crew neck t-shirt by Wigan Casino made from 100% cotton in a regular fit. Old gold contrast stripes on collar and cuffs. Embroidered 'Fist' badge on left of chest and plain on back.