Mike Ashley backs supporters bid to buy Newcastle United

Nov 25 2009 by Graeme Whitfield, The Journal

MEMBERS of the Newcastle United Supporters’ Trust couldn’t believe their eyes when Mike Ashley signed up to back their bid to buy the troubled club.

It was only later when they realised that their backer wasn’t the club’s unpopular owner but Mike Ashley, who runs the Blacksmiths Arms pub on Gosforth High Street in Newcastle.

The less wealthy Mike put his name on the list of supporters when the Trust’s roadshow arrived at his pub. Word spread around the pub like wildfire and Mike had to confess that it was him.

Mike, 52, of Whickham, Gateshead, said: “When I signed up the word got out very quickly and the organisers said they didn’t realise that Mike Ashley was in the pub.

“I think they thought I was joking but this is my name. I let them wait a while before I revealed who I was and then it was just a big laugh.

“Even some of my regulars don’t believe me when I tell them my full name and I have to show them some documentation from behind the bar or a credit card.”

The Trust was set up after Newcastle United was put up for sale by the multi-millionaire Mike Ashley.

And after months of discussions with interested parties, the Trust launched the “Yes We Can Campaign” which aims to raise funds to lead a fans’ buy out at St James’ Park.

The idea is based on fans investing in the club through a number of financial opportunities which will be held by a local solicitors in an escrow account to demonstrate to Ashley that the fans have proof of funds.

Supporters will be asked to pledge 10% of their investment into this account which would be returned if the bid was unsuccessful.

The Newcastle United Supporters’ Trust is on the road again at Bourgognes, Hexham Road, Swalwell, Gateshead, on Wednesday, December 2, starting at 7.30pm.