Bumper crowd due at Boundary Park for hero chairman Frank's big welcome home

Boundary Park will be packed tomorrow as Latics fans welcome back Atlantic rowing hero and club chairman Frank Rothwell

A bumper crowd of more than 11,700 is expected at Boundary Park tomorrow (Saturday) as Latics fans say a big 'welcome home' to chairman and co-owner Frank Rothwell.

There promises to be an electric atmosphere inside the stadium ahead of the National League clash against Kidderminster as fans welcome Frank back following his incredible achievement of rowing across the Atlantic Ocean - again.

Frank returned from his 3,000-mile row after breaking another world record and raising over £300,000 for Alzheimer's Research UK.

On Saturday, there will be a Fan Zone outside the Joe Royle Stand, with food stalls, as well as DJ Wayne Williams, a children’s penalty shootout competition, face painter, special tattoo station and more.

The Fan Zone will be open from 11am, with further details to follow.

Club chiefs have thanked loyal club sponsors Rowan Ashworth Ltd for their kind donation of tickets which will enable local grassroots teams and young people from Mahdlo Youth Zone the opportunity to experience what will be a memorable day.

The crowd for this game is lower than the capacity of the stadium due to segregation and ongoing maintenance in some areas.

Frank will address the crowd at 2.45pm with an interview hosted by Mike Keegan, and also featuring Lucy Squance from Alzheimer’s Research UK.

The Athleticos are encouraging all supporters to bring a scarf to hold aloft and also make an incredible noise for Frank’s return.

Turnstiles on the afternoon will be open from 1.30pm.

To avoid congestion when arriving and entering the ground, supporters are strongly advised to arrive early, making sure they sit in the seat marked on their ticket.

On the field, Latics will bid to continue their push for the National League play-offs after a fine season so far since Micky Mellon took over as manager in October.

Latics have won six of their last nine league games and drew 1-1 away at York last time out.

They have 13 league games left to play this term.

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