Derry City: New visually impaired commentary service introduced

The service at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium is similar to the Soccer Sight programme that was successfully implemented at Windsor Park Stadium in Belfast.

The new service, with commentary provided by Drive 105, was trialled at Friday’s 1-1 draw between Derry City and Shamrock Rovers and will now be available at every home fixture going forward.

Campaigns Officer for RNIB Northern Ireland, Michéal Smith, who attended Friday’s match, said RNIB Northern Ireland is delighted to be involved with this initiative.

“Blind and partially sighted fans should be able to enjoy watching a live football match in an accessible environment which welcomes both participants and those who visit sporting facilities to follow the action,” he said.

“Too often, access to and within grounds and stadia, the facilities on offer, the accessible communication and the return travel, can be difficult to negotiate or completely absent. In many cases this deters sports fans with sight loss from getting involved.

“Football is for everyone and we commend the Brandywell for introducing audio description technology to the stadium.”