Newcastle United may not be a global powerhouse just yet but they boast a fan base that stretches far beyond the banks of the River Tyne. Despite decades of failure - which came to a joyous end at Wembley in March - those of a black-and-white persuasion are steadfast in their pride towards the club.
A black-and-white wave flocks to St James’ Park to roar on the Magpies every fortnight. While most, ourselves included, prefer to mingle with the masses, some have the fortunate honour of sitting in with the rich and famous.
Tyneside is home to many household stars but everyone, rich, poor, black or white, is bound by a common love: the football club. Those in the public eye can regularly be seen in executive boxes acting just as passionately as the Gallowgate End.
But who tops the rich list? And how many could be placed in the “glory seeker” category? NewcastleWorld has profiled the top 10 based on reported net worth.
1. Newcastle United fans
All of these famous people support Newcastle United (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images) Photo: Gareth Copley
2. Chris Eubank (estimated net worth = £500,000)
Eubank’s support for Newcastle may just be mythologised, however, he has claimed to be a Newcastle supporter and has attended functions at St James’ Park. Photo: Justin Setterfield
3. Brian Blessed (estimated net worth = £500,000)
Despite growing up a Manchester United fan, the Yorkshire-born actor has a ‘soft spot’ for Newcastle United and can even recall the club’s FA Cup winning starting line-ups from 1951, 1952 and 1955. Photo: WPA Pool
4. Lewis Ritson (estimated net worth = £1-5million)
Ritson emerged as one of the north east’s brightest boxing talents and often fights in black and white colours. Photo: James Chance