Fan-tastic record of rollercoaster season

May 29 2008 by Dave Bettley, Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

Fan-tastic record of rollercoaster season

VIKINGS fan Mike Healing has turned a season which ultimately became one to forget into one which will always be remembered through the publication of a book.

Dreams to Reality chronicles a turbulent 2007 season for Widnes but the author hopes the story will have a happy ending.

The book ends with the takeover of the threatened club by Steve O’Connor after its spell in administration – and renewed hope of returning to Super League in 2009, when membership goes out to licence.

The 280-page book features interviews with Steve McCormack, conducted at key points of the season, game- by-game action up to the Grand Final defeat to Castleford and the media’s thoughts on the campaign.

“I honestly felt that this would be a book about a successful campaign – on the pitch,” says Healing, 57.

“I don’t think anyone, outside the confines of the boardroom, could have foreseen the rollercoaster ride of 2007”.

The book can be ordered online at www.trafford.com at £10.99

Enter the ‘Bookstore’ and then key into the search box the book title Dreams to Reality: A Pivotal Year in the History of Widnes Vikings.

The book is also on sale from the Curiosity Book Shop in Runcorn’s High Street.

The author has, meanwhile, arranged for it to be also sold through the Rugby League Museum at Stobart Stadium Halton and profits from any copies bought this way will go to Widnes Vikings.