Newcastle United Supporters Trust

Lore & Background

The group was formed in September 2008 as the Newcastle United Supporters Club (NUSC), following fan demonstrations against the NUFC board and owner Mike Ashley after the resignation of manager Kevin Keegan. A public meeting on 16 September 2008 at the Tyneside Irish Centre, attended by a few hundred fans, included a speakers panel of John Gibson, Malcolm Dix, and Colin Whittle. An interim committee was established on 18 September 2008, and the NUSC made its first official statement on 19 September 2008, calling for the club to be sold at the earliest possible opportunity.

In December 2008, after interim manager Joe Kinnear's contract was made permanent, the NUSC called for a truce, suggesting Mike Ashley might be given a second chance if he apologized. The group also designated the 28 December 2008 match as Bobby Robson day, raising funds for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. In February 2009, the NUSC staged a protest rally at Grey's Monument before a home game against Everton FC. In March 2009, the group announced its intention to become a supporters' trust, which was officially achieved in July 2009, resulting in the name change to Newcastle United Supporters Trust (NUST).

Reader's Guide

The Newcastle United Supporters Trust emerged from a period of fan unrest and disorganization, providing a unified voice for Newcastle United supporters. Its formation addressed the lack of a common fan voice during protests against owner Mike Ashley, and it sought to correct perceived inaccurate media depictions of fan aims. The trust's transition from the NUSC to a formal supporters' trust in July 2009, with backing from Supporters Direct, marked a shift toward structured governance and long-term goals, including board representation. The trust's activities, such as the Bobby Robson day tribute and the 'All Together Now' campaign to support the team against relegation, demonstrate its role in both protest and community engagement. Its low-cost membership model ensures accessibility, and its recognition by the Football Supporters' Federation underscores its legitimacy. The trust's significance lies in its attempt to institutionalize fan influence within a major football club, a model that has been replicated by other supporter groups.

Did You Know?

• The group was initially called the Newcastle United Supporters Club (NUSC) before becoming the Newcastle United Supporters Trust (NUST) in July 2009.
• The public meeting to form the group was held at the Tyneside Irish Centre opposite the Gallowgate End of St James' Park.
• The NUSC designated the 28 December 2008 match as Bobby Robson day to raise funds for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.
• Joining NUST costs £1 initial joining fee and £1 per year, with all fees invested back into the trust.