Bosses pay tribute to Kath
other foodbanks and charities in the area, helping people as far away as Morpeth and Ashington.”
The West End Foodbank is Britain’s largest and featured in Ken Loach’s film I, Daniel Blake, which depicted Newcastle’s struggle against austerity and benefit cuts.
Toon midfielder Isaac Hayden recently joined Mr Nixon to spend a day volunteering at the centre.
He said: “It’s a special thing the fans have done. They organise and give to people not so fortunate.
“It is good to be here because it keeps you humble. You have to keep a connection between fans, players and the city.
“You can drive here a mile from St James’ Park, and it is a different world from the life inside that stadium.
“As a player, you can go to Darras Hall and see the big houses, Jesmond too, and you come out here and it is very different.
“We are in a very privileged position doing what we love.
“It brings rewards and makes us very lucky.
“We know there are people less fortunate and we’d like to help.”
To support the West End Foodbank, visit www.newcastlewestend. foodbank.org.uk. FRESH tributes were paid to Newcastle United’s legendary tea lady in Saturday’s matchday programme.
Kath Cassidy, who made the brews for every Toon manager for 49 years, died last Monday aged 90.
Former managers and players have been sharing their memories of working alongside the club stalwart.
They featured in the official programme for Saturday’s clash against Wigan.
Kevin Keegan, who developed a close relationship with Kath over his two spells at the club, called her “irreplaceable”.
Alan Shearer said: “Kath was such a special lady and a huge fan. She devoted so much of her life to Newcastle United.
“Kath will be sadly missed but I’m honoured to have known such a lovely person.”
Former manager Alan Pardew also paid tribute to her, saying: “When she arrives at heaven’s gate, I’m sure God will present her with a large gold teapot to prepare tea for all those worthy of her humour, spirit and feisty personality. In my time, she was loved by one and all.
“It was a privilege to have known her. God bless, Kath.”
Another former manager, Chris Hughton, now at promotion rivals Brighton and Hove Albion, said she was a big part of his “brilliant experience” at the club.
He added: “I would see her every home match day and she always wished me well.
“Win, lose or draw, she would always seek me out.
“Kath was a huge part of my time at the club and a more respected person you couldn’t wish to meet.
“Kath will be forever remembered and forever loved.”
Club legends Bob Moncur and Malcolm Macdonald also praised her.
Moncur called her a “truly wonderful person”, while Macdonald said she was a “real treasure” who “lived and breathed Newcastle United”.
Kath’s retirement came in 2015 after she suffered a heart attack and a stroke.