Ramage backs Tynemouth

6 April 2006

Newcastle United full-back Peter Ramage has made a donation to his former club at Tynemouth to help them with their refurbishment work as part of NatWest CricketForce 2006.

A former junior cricketer at the Tyne and Wear club, the Premiership star had originally intended to pay a weekend visit as part of the NatWest CricketForce events at Tynemouth on April 8.

But training commitments before Newcastle’s local derby against Middlesbrough the following day meant he was unable to get away.

Ramage contacted Tynemouth chairman Russell Perry by letter to offer his apologies, as well as his best wishes in their endeavours – and with a promise of future help: “I must admit Tynemouth still holds an affection in my heart and results in the summer are the first I look for in the local papers,” he said.

“Looking at the pictures of the redevelopment and refurbishment of the pavilion, it's a credit to you and everyone associated with the club on the superb facilities that have been made available to all the members. All the hard work and sweat looks to have paid off big style!

“Reading the story of how the club has enlisted the help and funds to make this project work is, as you described, ‘humbling’, and it is also a credit and merit on how you and your fellow coaches, staff and volunteers run the club and make it such a family-friendly place to be associated with.

“I know whilst I was a member, I felt it a great honour to be associated with the club, because of the way I was treated, watched and generally welcomed by everyone, something I haven't forgotten.

“Unfortunately I will be unable to attend the NatWest CricketForce weekend as we are training on Saturday in preparation for Sunday's game away to Middlesbrough. I apologise that I am unable to make it, however, anytime in the future you need any help or anything, please do not hesitate to contact me.

“I have enclosed a donation that I hope helps in someway to continue the great work you and your fellow colleagues are doing. Like I said before, Tynemouth Cricket Club gave me great times and it was an honour to play for such a good, friendly, family orientated club.”