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 Ecru & Gold Turtle Neck Ringer T-Shirt
£30.00WC/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.
- Following the huge success of last year's event on the former site of the world famous Wigan Casino – now part of the Grand Arcade – the event will return this summer. And as well as the old 'All Nighter' Northern Soul classics such as The Servicemen's Sweet Magic and Soul Brothers Pyramid, there will be a twist to this year's event.
- These were the last three songs to be played at the end of the Wigan Casino Allnighter.If you were there close you eyes and remember, if you were'nt just ima.
- The site the Wigan Casino previously occupied is now a shopping centre, the club having been demolished back in 1981, and indeed the current Grand Arcade.
Listen to the music that inspired the design of our 2021 away kit, curated by ex-Wigan Casino DJ Richard Searling.
Wigan became a hub for the Northern Soul scene in the 1970s with Wigan Casino. Famed for its all-nighters, it was 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 Wigan Casino was a nightclub in Wigan, England. Operating between 1973 and 1981, it became known as a primary venue for northern soul music. It carried forward the legacy created by clubs such as the Twisted Wheel in Manchester, the Chateau Impney (Droitwich), the Catacombs (Wolverhampton) and the Golden Torch (Tunstall, Stoke-on-Trent). It remains one of the most famous clubs in Northern.
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.
To learn more, watch the below video as Liam Marshall interviews Richard Searling about the Northern Soul scene in Wigan.
Wigan Casino Now Open
Watch the full interview on Wigan TV by clicking here.
Mr Searling was also kind enough to craft a Spotify playlist, presenting all of the biggest tracks from the Wigan Casino days of old. Enjoy some fantasic tunes in the pop-out player below.
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.
Wigan Casino Northern Soul
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.