WARRINGTON Wolves have paid tribute to a club stalwart who has died aged 87.

Joan Wells was a familiar face around the Halliwell Jones Stadium, having been involved with the club for more than 50 years.

The matchday assistant was perhaps best known for selling raffle tickets around the ground on matchdays.

But the great-grandma would also regularly be found in the club shop knitting cardigans and hats for babies on Warrington Hospital’s neonatal unit.

Fittingly, a collection will be made in the official store in aid of the unit and the Warrington Wolves Charitable Foundation in Joan’s memory ahead of today’s Super League game against Huddersfield Giants.

Wire said in a statement: “The club is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of lifetime Warrington Wolves fan and matchday assistant Joan Wells, who has died aged 87.

“Joan had been involved with the club for over 50 years and began selling raffle tickets at home matches during the Wilderspool days.

“A huge Rugby League fan, Joan continued to collect for the club’s Try Time, summer and Christmas raffles as well as the Wire Lifeline lottery, selling tickets to supporters around the ground on game days, with her sharp sense of humour and lively personality making her loved by all.

“She could often be found knitting in the official club store too, where she would often knit cardigans and hats for premature babies which would be donated to the neonatal unit at Warrington Hospital.

“A collection will therefore be made in the club store at the game against Huddersfield Giants in her memory, with proceeds raised being split between the neonatal unit at Warrington Hospital and the Warrington Wolves Charitable Foundation.

“In total, Joan brought in more than £250,000 to the club through ticket and raffle sales.

“She had a special relationship also with box holders Direct Taxis, who would provide her lift home at the end of each match free of charge.

“Joan leaves behind four children, seven grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

“Our thoughts go out to all of her loved ones at this difficult time.

“Details for Joan’s funeral will be released in due course.”