You SHALL go to the football
CHUKS WILL SEE UNITED – DESPITE ACCIDENT NIGHTMARE
Reporter A family whose dream trip to see Newcastle United play turned into a nightmare has been invited to be a mascot for the final game of the season.
United fanatic Chuks McPeake had travelled from London with his family, planning to watch the Magpies play Burton Albion as a treat for his sixth birthday, which is next week.
But the visit turned to horror as his terrified parents could only watch as the excited youngster got knocked over by bus on Dean Street, near the Quayside.
Instead of making it to St James’ Park, they were forced to follow the match from inside the nearby Royal Victoria Infirmary where Chuks was treated for a fractured skull.
Dad Greg McPeak said: “We are all big Newcastle United fans, so this was to be the boy’s birthday treat, as we live in London. He was gutted at missing the game.”
Though Chuks is still being monitored by doctors, he’s back at home and his dad says he’s “doing fine”.
Geordie school teacher Greg admits he’s “indoctrinated” his London-born son into a love for Newcastle United, so the little one was delighted to learn he’d be helping lead his beloved team out in their final game of the season against Barnsley on May 7 – by which time United should be assured of a place in the Premier League next season.
Greg added: “And he’ll get to see his grandma, which is great.”
Chuks had been planning to visit gran Rosie, who is 93, before the game, and the family was devastated to be unable to see her after the crash.
Greg promised his son he’d bring him back on a return visit, but wasn’t sure how he would manage it.
Now, the little one, who is dad describes as “full of energy” and “a happy practical joker” is thrilled that he will be able to enjoy the unique atmosphere at St James’ Park from the pitch itself, and to meet some of his favourite players in person.