Newcastle charity to benefit from the sale of sock depicting north east footballing legend

A legend of north east football has been memorialised in a new sock created by a Newcastle based company.

Bella Reay played for Blyth between 1917 and 1919 and finished with a remarkable goal scoring record of 133 goals in 30 matches.

Bella Reay played at centre forward for Blyth Spartans and England between 1917 – 19 scoring an amazing 133 goals in one season. After World War One, women’s competitive football was generally unaccepted in public circles making her playing achievement even more remarkable.

Born the daughter of a coal miner in Cowpen at the turn of the 20th century, she worked in a munitions factory and played football during the First World War when competitive league football in Britain was suspended.

Matches were played between amateur teams to raise morale, entertain and collect charitable funds.

The Sock Company have created a sock which depicts Bella, and £2 from every pair purchased will be donated to Newcastle charity East End Women.

The money will go towards supporting the charity and its work to support women and education in the region.

On behalf of East End Women, Clare Vaughan said:  “It’s not a formal partnership but the team at Sock Council have been long time supporters of East End Women which is so gratefully received.

“They bought 250 Easter Eggs for us earlier this year when we were worried the children who rely on our food bank may go without.

“We’re thrilled that people who support a local independent business can also help households who are struggling with food poverty. And nab themselves some snazzy socks in the process!”

“We’re so lucky that they continue to support our cause, along with other local organisations such as La Famiglia Restaurant, Bede Gaming and all of those local businesses that host drop off points for donations,” Clare added.

“We’re always seeking support to continue to deliver our essential services for individuals across the East End with our fundraiser”

To purchase a pair of the socks, visit The Sock Councils’ website.

To get your pair before Christmas have have up until December 21 to get your order in.