SINCE a stunning first away clash with Catalan Dragons, Warrington Wolves supporters have been welcomed back to Perpignan with open arms.
In fact, Warrington’s vibrant barmy army made such an impression the team was handed two Super League dates in Perpignan in 2007.
The French club’s chiefs made a special effort to hold out a hand of friendship.
Dragons general manager Christophe Levy said at the time: "Last year, Warrington were the team which sent the most fans to Perpignan, around 3,000. It was impressive.
"So, this time we have set up a special after-game party for them in the stadium."
That party, running into the early hours of the morning after the match, featured a live band, DJ, dancers, big-screen replay of the match, buffet and bar.
Perpignan, with a rich history dating back centuries, was suddenly becoming a holiday hotspot for Warrington travellers.
Some travelled for both games in 2007, while others took in just one.
And while that diluted the volume of travelling support at each match, it did not dampen the carnival mood as Wolves fans were christened Super League’s best by the Perpignan locals.
Around 1,500 members of the barmy army descended on the south of France city for the second game of the year, once again boosting the area's economy at the start of their holiday season.
The word from the array of café, restaurant and shop owners in the popular Castille area was positive, all welcoming Warrington's passionate supporters as the best Super League has to offer in terms of behaviour and spending power.
Even the French police, often considered unapproachable, were prepared to join in with the laughs and pose for fans' photographs.
Some premises had banners saying 'Welcome Warrington', while busy staff at a few eateries were wearing old Warrington Wolves tops.
And the supporters of both clubs mixed well inside and outside of the Gilbert Brutus Stadium, getting over the language barrier as they swapped songs, banter and memorabilia.
Extraordinary plans were starting to be put in place, too.
Catalan Dragons had reached the last four of the Challenge Cup with their semi final to take place against Wigan Warriors at Warrington’s Halliwell Jones Stadium a month down the line.
Warrington fans, so happy with the continuing welcome and hospitality in Perpignan, made promises on that trip to get behind Catalan on their big day as they aimed to create a huge shock and become the first French side to reach the Challenge Cup Final in its historic return to Wembley – the new Wembley that is!
Did you venture to Perpignan for either of these trips? Tell us all about your time there and any friends you made using the 'have your say' link.
How the Wolves and Dragons embrace started
Fierce fortnight as Wolves lose in France and then beat Dragons in Challenge Cup semi final
Supporters sing each other’s songs at paella party
Sharing in Catalonian celebrations
Meet those with a foot in both camps
The day Wolves fans cheered Les Catalans to Wembley
Back to our Warrington Wolves-Catalan Dragons celebration page
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