A DJ with a learning disability will be achieving his lifetime dream when he makes his live debut to a crowd at St James’ Park – the home of Newcastle United.

Gavin Walton, 45, will be taking to the stage at the Dacia Magic Weekend on Saturday, September 4, the flagship summer event for the Betfred Super League – rugby league’s topflight competition. Playing a set at the fanzone, he will be achieving his goals in the most spectacular way.

Mr Walton is supported by the national social care charity, Community Integrated Care. The charity is leading the world’s first-ever dedicated volunteering and personal development programme for people who have care and support needs, at a major event, in partnership with the Rugby League World Cup 2021.

Through this programme, participants like Mr Walton are given specialist mentoring and development opportunities, designed to fulfil their potential, promote independence, and make dreams come true.

Mr Walton is just one of more than thirty people who will be enjoying an aspirational volunteering project at the event.

Community Integrated Care has also worked with Super League to showcase the artwork of people they support in the Dacia Magic Weekend official matchday programme. More than sixty people have created illustrations of players, coaches, and crests, which will be featured in the matchday magazine and in a special digital publication. Their artwork will also be shared widely across Super League digital channels.

The Northern Echo:

Community Integrated Care’s ground-breaking Inclusive Volunteering Programme was recently bestowed the Care Innovator Award at the regional Great British Care Awards in Yorkshire and the North West for its unique impact upon society and its participants.

John Hughes, Director of Partnerships and Communities at Community Integrated Care, said: “We are delighted to kick off our first volunteering placements at a major event at the Dacia Magic Weekend.

"Through our specialist support and the incredible platform that our charity has as the Official Social Care Partner of Super League, the Rugby Football League, and the Rugby League World Cup 2021, we are able to offer once-in-a-lifetime volunteering and personal development opportunities.

"Gavin has dreamt of being a DJ, and through this project, this will become a reality. We are excited for him and everyone who will be achieving amazing things at the event.

"Our thanks go to our partners at Super League, who have been so committed to changing lives through this opportunity, as well as our partners at Sport England and RLWC2021.”

Gavin Walton said: “I can’t believe that I am having the chance to DJ at such a huge event and famous stadium. With the support of Community Integrated Care and the volunteering programme, I’ve enjoyed lots of special opportunities that have built my confidence to take on something big like this. I’ll be working hard to pick my five best songs to get the party started for all of the fans.”