Express & Star

Wolves' Danny Batth surprises young Joel with early Christmas present

By
Published
Last updated

When most youngsters are told they have to be home for 4pm, they'd assume it was because they needed to finish their homework.

more

So a Wolves superfan from Darlaston got the shock of his life when defender Danny Batth made a surprise visit to his home to treat the youngster to a box of Christmas goodies.

Danny's visit to Joel Waite, 13, was part of the new 'Wolves Wishes' initiative that sees fans nominated by loved ones for a special Christmas surprise.

[video]

Star players are surprising fans who have a story of great loyalty, go out of their way to help others or are in need of a boost just before Christmas.

The first visit as part of the project saw 13 year old Joel Waite, an aspiring footballer from Darlaston, get a visit from the vice captain.

Danny spent an hour with Joel, delivering a box full of Wolves goodies as well as teaming up to play a game of FIFA on the X Box.

He also took a pair of used boots and a signed football which he signed: "Keep going Joel – see you in the South Bank."

Joel said: "I was told I was having a surprise Christmas present and that I had to be home and changed for 4 o'clock but I didn't know what it was.

"Then Danny Batth turned up who is my favourite player.

"I was really happy but I didn't know what to say.

"He then gave me some Wolves presents and we played a game of FIFA.

"I can't wait to tell my friends about it but I don't think they'll believe me."

Joel's mum Nicola felt he deserved a special treat this Christmas, after spending the last few years coming to terms with the sudden death of his father.

At the age of eight Joel lost his father to the heart condition cardiomyopathy, which offers no warnings.

In March this year, Joel also lost his grandfather, Nicola's father, who had become the main role model in his life.

Nicola said: "The morning I had to tell Joel his Dad had died during the night was the hardest thing I've ever done.

"I'm sure most parents think their children are the best but my son is something else.

"In his 13 years of life he has seen so many tough times and, with the help of sport and I include his beloved Wolves in this, he is still such an inspiration to me. "