A DREAM has come true for a lifelong Widnes fan.

Peter Littler, who has been watching his home team play since he was five, has signed a five year deal worth an estimated £250,000 for his company to become the new sponsor of Halton Council’s stadium, home of Widnes Vikings.

Peter, aged 48, from Cronton, managing director of Select Security Services in Runcorn, said: “I did it for the love of Widnes Rugby League Club.

“As a proud Widnesian and supporter, I know how much the team means to the town and the local community.

“We are one of Halton’s biggest employers and when we heard that Stobart’s were pulling out, I knew it was a big opportunity for us.”

Former Bankfield pupil, Peter fondly remembers being taken to matches by his late dad, Ronnie, of Mottershead Road.

Prop forward Peter was a pillion passenger on a motorbike when his dream of playing professional rugby was shattered.

“I smashed my back, pelvis, and hip and broke my tibia and fibula, crushed my foot and smashed my knee.”

He was given a false right leg and spent nine months in hospital and four years recuperating.

He trained as a motor engineer and went on to race cars, winning his class five times in the RAC Lombard Rally and drove professionally for Hyundai, Ford and Vauxhall.

He started his security company in 2005 and now employs 200 people in Manor Park, providing security for companies across the country.

He said: “We provide all the security for Halton Council and the stadium. I feel a massive involvement in it.

“When Widnes beat Warrington it was a fantastic achievement. We’re doing well and we’ve got great loyal supporters.

“I hope we can improve even more.”

Clr Phil Harris, board member for the 13,500 seat stadium, said: “The stadium is always looking for ways to reduce its on-going costs.

“Sponsorship deals like this proves that we have a stadium that offers fantastic opportunities.”