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Magpies Legend Paints A Fresh Chapter
Written by Newcastle Utd
Peter Beardsley was on hand to help new Club sponsors Wonga.com return the Gallowgate roof to its former state
Newcastle United fans will be reunited with a familiar sight at the start of next season after new Club sponsors Wonga.com teamed up with Magpies legend Peter Beardsley to return the famous Gallowgate End to its former glory.
The ex-England playmaker and current football development manager at St. James' Park donned decorator's overalls to help a Wonga and Newcastle United painting crew start removing the existing Sports Direct logo, which has spanned the giant roof space for the last few years.
The sizeable re-decoration job, which is being undertaken by local Dunston-based company Just Signs and Lighting Ltd, follows a pledge by the digital finance company to return the stadium to the fans.
St. James' Park signs were re-instated outside the ground in October 2012 after Wonga bought the stadium naming rights as part of a four-year deal - and now the stand roof is being returned to its original grey.
Beardsley, whose father Sammy was a painter working on the Tyne Bridge, said: "It was always a privilege to play in front of the Gallowgate.
"It's one of the most famous stands in the country - if not in world football - so it's great to see it being put back to its original state.
"It's a fantastic gesture from our new sponsors. I'm sure it's something which will be really appreciated by our supporters."
Errol Damelin, founder and CEO of Wonga, added: "This moment is all about our commitment to the fans.
"When we restored St James' Park to its original name, we said we'd return some traditions to them. This is another symbolic part of that promise and we've got more in store.
"Beyond the stadium naming, we're building our sponsorship up with real investment in the club, the Academy and the local community."
To see exclusive picture updates as the project develops, stay logged on to www.nufc.co.uk throughout the summer.
