Gateshead man charged with alleged racist incident during Newcastle United match at St. James’ Park

A Gateshead man has been charged with racial harassment after gestures made at a Newcastle United match last year.

Shay Asher of Gibside View, Winlaton is due to appear in court in connection with an incident which occurred during the Magpies’ Premier League fixture with Tottenham at St James’ Park on October 17 last year.

The match was the first one under the new ownership at St. James’ Park in which Newcastle lost 3-2 in a thrilling encounter.

It was alleged that during the match a home fan made a racist gesture in the direction of the travelling Tottenham supporters. The incident was subsequently reported to police.

Officers have since been working with Newcastle United in a bid to identify anyone involved.

The 24-year-old has now been charged with racial/religious intentional harassment. He is due to appear before Newcastle Magistrates’ Court on April 27.

Shortly after the incident, Northumbria Police issued a public appeal for information to the public as officers investigated the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Superintendent Jamie Pitt, of Northumbria Police, said: “As a Force, we do not tolerate hate crime of any kind within our communities.

“Ever since we were made aware of this alleged incident, we have been working with Newcastle United and our partners as part of a full and thorough investigation.

“With a man now charged and due to appear in court, I would ask that the public respect the ongoing proceedings and refrain from any speculation – both on social media and out in the community – that could jeopardise the live case.”