Darlo Fans Radio, Darlington FC, and Darlington FC Supporters’ Group Launch Inclusive In-Stadium Commentary for Supporters With Sight Loss

Darlington FC is proud to announce a new in-stadium audio commentary service designed to support fans with sight loss or visual impairment. Developed in partnership with Darlo Fans Radio and funded by the Darlington FC Supporters’ Group, this initiative is already transforming the matchday experience for supporters who may struggle to follow the action on the pitch.

Lifelong supporter Mike Hetherington knows first-hand the difference this service can make. Mike has followed the Quakers for almost 60 years, having first visited Feethams back in 1966. But in recent years, deteriorating eyesight left him unsure whether he could continue attending games as a season ticket holder.

“I can see as far as the centre spot,” Mike explains, “but I can’t see what’s going on in the penalty areas. I’d reached a point where I thought this might be my last season coming to games.”

That changed when Mike discovered that Darlington FC and Darlo Fans Radio were trialling an in-ground commentary system specifically for fans with visual impairment. After contacting DFCSG’s Neil Raper, Mike became one of the first supporters to try the equipment—and the impact was immediate.

“It’s absolutely fantastic,” he says. “It’s a complete new dimension for me. The commentary tells me everything that’s happening, and it really enhances my entertainment. It’s brought the match to life again.”

How the System Works

As explained by Darlo Fans Radio’s Mike Price, the setup is simple but highly effective. Commentary from the Darlo Fans Radio team is transmitted live from the media area at Blackwell Meadows via a dedicated in-stadium transmitter. Supporters using the service are given a small wireless receiver and earpiece, allowing them to hear the commentary anywhere in the ground with minimal delay.

They’re not reliant on mobile data, Mixlr, or delayed online streams—the audio is live, clear, and perfectly in sync with the action on the pitch.

Supporting Accessibility and Inclusion

Darlo Fans Radio’s Stuart Armstrong emphasises that the project is rooted in making matches more accessible for all supporters.

“We’ve been working on this for a few months,” he explains. “We realised there was a real need, especially for fans whose vision makes it hard to follow the game. We also want to thank Scarborough Athletic for sharing their experience—they’ve been pioneers in this area and their advice was invaluable.”

The initiative has been made possible through the support of Darlington Football Club and funding from the Darlington FC Supporters’ Group, highlighting the club’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and community.

“Our aim is simple,” Stuart adds. “We want as many people as possible to enjoy football at Blackwell Meadows. If you have a visual impairment that makes it difficult to follow the action, we can provide a receiver and you can listen to high-quality, live commentary wherever you are in Blackwell Meadows”

Interested in Using the Service?

Darlington FC wants every supporter to feel welcome, valued, and included. If you or someone you know would benefit from the in-stadium commentary service, we’d love to hear from you.

📧 Email: neil.raper@darlingtonfc.org
For more information or to register your interest.