Passengers travelling through Newcastle Airport can rest assured they will not miss a minute of World Cup fever! From the 11th of June 2010, a dedicated space plays host to a fully equipped World Cup Lounge in the departures area.
A 65 inch plasma T.V screen with a state-of-the-art, surround-sound system, kindly donated by LG and Sumlock, will televise every live game and repeat highlights to keep holiday makers entertained throughout the World Cup. A special bar from SSP will serve the Lounge soft drinks, snacks and a selection of alcoholic drinks.
Gill Caleary, Commercial Director at Newcastle International, said: “To cater for a region of passionate football fans, Newcastle International wanted to create a space for passengers to enjoy the World Cup in style. However, we do urge fans not to get too engrossed in the football and miss their flight!”
Avid supporters from the North East have plenty of choice on routes to travel to South Africa; they are expected to begin their journey from the Airport by flying with Emirates via Dubai or via Heathrow, Amsterdam and Paris with British Airways, KLM or Air France.
Ahead of the grand opening and the first match of the tournament this weekend, the Airport was extremely proud to welcome Gordon Banks, the man who kept goal for England in the winning 1966 World Cup team. Who then went on to produce the greatest save the world has ever witnessed against Pele in 1970.
Gordon arrived in the North East last week to speak at the ‘2010 World Cup Dinner and an evening with Gordon Banks’ in aid of the NSPCC, Newcastle Airport’s adopted charity. It celebrates the 40th Anniversary of his save vs. Pele which was voted the greatest save of all time.
On his arrival Gordon said, “I am delighted to be spending part of my World Cup build up in Tyneside reknowned for it's passion for football. My visit is to support the NSPCC, a charity that is close to my heart, I’m really looking forward to the first game on Saturday and hold high hope for England this time around!”
NSPCCs Corporate Fundraising Manager, Danny Mitchell, was responsible for organising the visit, “We began talking to Gordon 18 months ago about this event, and it’s a dream come true to have him here with us at such an exciting time for British football. I’m truly honored he has found the time for us. The event and Gordon's part in it will raise funds in the North East for the children of the North East."
The dinner took place at Greens Health Club Brasserie, Gosforth on the 10th of June. Banks gave an insight into how the 1966 World Cup unfolded including behind the scenes secrets. Guests were given a unique chance to ask questions and hear his views on the current England team. A football and sports memorabilia raffle and auction contributed to the night raising approximately £8,000 for the charity.
For more information on the NSPCC, email dmitchel@nspcc.org.uk.
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Notes to Editors:
For all press enquiries regarding Newcastle International Airport, please contact Nicola Quinn on nquinn@newcastleinternational.co.uk.
About the airport
Newcastle International Airport is the main airport for the North East, as well as a one of the major UK regional airports. The airport serves a population of over three million people in the region while serving a much wider catchment area; it saw a total of 4.6 million passengers pass through its doors in 2009.
The Airport is critical to regional economic growth, inward investment and direct employment. The 26th July 2010 marks the airport’s landmark 75th Anniversary. This will be celebrated with a wide range of events and activities spanning the year.