Ex-players unhappy as Legends game is cancelled
FORMER Newcastle United stars such as Rob Lee, Steve Howey and Ruel Fox have been left disappointed by the news a legends game to raise funds against Gateshead has now been cancelled.
The game was also set to feature Peter Beardsley, Lee Bowyer, Brian Kilcline, Lee Clark and Steve Watson.
Chronicle Live reported last week how the April fixture had been plunged into doubt due to the financial crisis at Gateshead.
Now fans who had snapped up tickets for the game have been handed details on how to obtain refunds.
A spokesman at Gateshead said: “It is disappointing for all parties the Legends match has been cancelled as a lot of hard work and commitment had gone in to make the event a success.
“We have crucial games in April so a fixture on the Sunday may have been a distraction.
“There was also a risk the costs and effort required for the match to go ahead would not have justified the revenue generated from ticket sales.”
Gateshead, who had planned on giving play-off heroes such as James Marwood and Ben Clark a run out, have pledged to refund all fans who purchased tickets.
Steve Wraith, who manages the Toon legends side, said: “We have taken the decision to postpone the legends match until a new owner takes over Gateshead.
“We have had various conversations and meetings with the club and feel it is in everybody’s best interests to take this action.
“Anyone who purchased a ticket for the game is advised to obtain a refund from the outlet from which they purchased it.”