A NEWPORT campaigner for better disabled access across sports stadiums will help launch the Newport County Disabled Supporters Association (DSA) in the city this weekend.

Wheelchair-bound Stephen Smith, the DSA vice-chairman, said the group is hoping to improve the matchday experience and disabled access for both home and away fans at Rodney Parade and stadiums across Britain.

The disabled supporters association, which is following in the footsteps of the likes of Wrexham, Yeovil and Portsmouth, is being officially launched during a funday at Rodney Parade tomorrow (Sunday)

"We are working with Rodney Parade at the moment but we have already had communication with clubs in the south west including Plymouth, Exeter and Swansea," he said.

"The clubs meet four times a year and we have been invited to their next meeting in October, which will be one of our first appointments."

He added about their work with Newport County: "We are going to be working with the club to try and improve facilities for fans home and away.

"We want to make it more friendly with better access, facilities, especially if it's raining, with blankets for those in wheelchairs if it's cold in the evenings."

He added that improvements including a viewing platform for the home fans had already been made.

Mr Smith, 46, said a car accident ‘opened his eyes’ to the frustrations and difficulties of being a disabled sports fan when it comes to watching games live.

He said: “[It is about] creating a level playing field and making sport accessible for everybody.

“I am trying to raise awareness that people can go to football matches no matter what disability they have.

“There are also disabilities that people can’t see, such as autism [who would also benefit from better access.

To combat this, the father-of-three wants to make access to information on stadiums more widely available for disabled fans ahead of visits.

“I just want people to be more aware," Mr Smith added.

“I didn’t expect to be wheelchair bound when I have my accident in 2003.

“I was a football fan before that, so it’s opened my eyes.”

Mr Smith is exciting around 2,500 people to attend doing the course of the day tomorrow.

The fun will kick off at 11am with entertainment featuring football sessions, dance and musical performances.

An evening gig will also take place at Rodney Hall from 6.30pm starring Ska tribute band 2Rude.

Entry to the fun day costs £2 including a raffle ticket. Tickets for the gig are £6 each.