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The South West Official Toon Army Supporters Club was founded by John Bartram in August 1999. Through the hard work and effort done by John and several members the club
is now recognised by Newcastle United and often travel to St James Park to watch Premiership Football. Last season alone members watched the 4-3 victory over the red devils, whilst also
having members at the Sunderland 1-1 game, Derby County victory, over Blackburn Rovers in the comfort of the Berwick Suite. For only £62 they received transport from Plymouth to Newcastle and back, a
meal of chicken, chips & mushy peas inside the suite and an amazing view of the games. Several of the lads also watched the last game at Southampton.
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NEWCASTLE United fans are supporting their team from as far as Plymouth, as the city is the base of the South West Official of the Toon Army. The supporters
club, formed in 1999 by John Bartram, has 64 members from as far away as Penzance, a monthly newsletter, and even its own website.
John, and the fellow exiled Magpies fans (above), made their long march up to the north east for six matches last year -in their own minibus. They have
already visited St James' Park once this season, to see the 4-3 win over Manchester United, and they are planning their next expedition for the match against Blackburn on December 15. Plans are
also afoot to include away games this season. John, who used to work for City-bus, found his old job useful for meeting and greeting members Toon Army. He said: "I've seen so many people
going around with stickers on their cars and if I'm walking past I'll put a card in their window.”I used to work on the buses after I retired from the Marines, and I used to stop the bus to
give people my card.
“He added: "There are quite a few people who come to the games but aren't members." The club is sponsored by Devonport based Scorpio Computers, and
meets regularly at the Black Prince pub in Laira. Anyone interested should contact John on 07801729749.
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