Newcastle United's tea lady Kath Cassidy hangs up her apron after 52 years

The 88-year-old was described by the club’s former manager Kevin Keegan as 'irreplaceable'

Sir Alex Ferguson is in awe of her, Arsene Wenger described her as outstanding, while Kevin Keegan believed a sight of her meant Newcastle would win. (Lewis Arnold - NCJ)

Pop the kettle on…

Kath Cassidy has hung up her apron as Newcastle United Football Club’s tea lady for the last time. The 88-year-old, described by the club’s former manager Kevin Keegan as “irreplaceable”, has provided countless coaches, players, and journalists with cups of tea and coffee, cakes, biscuits and sweets.

How long has she brewing cuppas for Toon stars and colleagues?

An impressive 52 years. She first donned a pinny at St James’s Park in 1963 after a friend asked her to help out for the day. “A neighbour had nobody to help her and she asked me to come up and give her a hand, I went for one day but I never stopped,” she said. But the great-grandmother was forced to retire earlier in the season after suffering a heart attack and stroke.

Has she enjoyed her many years of service?

After more than half a century, you’d hope so. Mrs Cassidy, of Wallsend, said: “It’s been lovely, it’s been like a family. It’s been the nicest life. If I could do it all over again, I would.” And that’s on top of raising six children.

Will she be missed?

Absolutely. The club has described the “much loved” granny as “legendary”, while Sir Alex Ferguson said she would “truly deserve a long and happy retirement” and former Newcastle striker Alan Shearer added: “Always there with a kind word and friendly smile, it won’t be the same without you. Good luck in your retirement.”

A fitting end?

Mrs Cassidy, whose living room is filled with pictures of the club’s star players and managers, has watched Newcastle as a spectator only a handful of times. But in tribute to her dedication to the club she was made guest of honour at yesterday’s clash with Norwich City.