WARRIORS legend Craig Gillies will tonight be unveiled as the first patron of Worcester Wolves.

The 38-year-old, who is the Sixways outfit’s leading appearance maker with 288 games, is a big supporter of the British Basketball League club and will get a guard of honour from the players before the match against Sheffield Sharks at the University Arena (7.30pm).

Gillies, who stands at 6ft 8ins, retired from professional rugby at the end of the 2012-13 season but has always been a keen enthusiast and currently plays for Worcester Bears Grizzlies in West Midland League Division One.

He said: “To be named as the first patron of the Wolves is a huge honour for me. I am extremely humbled and grateful to be recognised by the club in this way.

“Although I spent 16 years as a professional rugby player, basketball was my first real sporting passion and my early sporting influences and idols came from the game.

“Having been in Worcester for 12 years, it’s important to me to see all of the city’s sporting teams thriving and I’m very much looking forward to this role and strengthening my links with the Wolves.”

Wolves managing director Mick Donovan said: “Since the formation of the Wolves 15 years ago, we have attracted followers who have allegiances with many other sports teams from our region.

“It is fitting that our first patron also has the respect of so many sports fans. We are delighted that Craig has accepted our invitation and feel proud that he will be associated with our club.”