NUDSA is a charity that was started by a small group of Magpies fans in 1998 to represent disabled supporters and help improve disability provisions at the club. Throughout its existence, NUDSA has been run by a voluntary committee that has worked closely with officials at Newcastle United to ensure that the club is now one of the leading lights in the Premier League when it comes to provisions for disabled fans.
St. James' Park currently has over 230 wheelchair spaces, provides many spaces for ambulant disabled fans and has a sensory room and two changing places; a far cry from the small lean-to in front of the Leazes End that used to house disabled supporters not long before the time NUDSA was formed.
As well as working with the club, NUDSA also provides social opportunities for its members with at least four functions a year held at St. James' Park. NUDSA also works to try and organise a few away trips each season for its members, which is a real treat as most members don't get to go to many matches.
NUDSA's 25th anniversary event, generously sponsored by RayFire Services, was held in the Platinum Club at St. James' Park, with around 200 guests enjoying a night of entertainment, including a magic show for the junior members, a Q&A session and two sets from the Baldy Holly Band.
Guests also had the opportunity to win fantastic prizes in an envelope draw, including a hospitality package donated by Newcastle United. Prizes were also donated by Alan Shearer, Paralympian Stephen Miller and Living North. All proceeds from the night will help to fund future NUDSA events and activities, whilst also securing the charity's long-term future.
NUDSA chairman, Joe Ayton, said: "I'm very proud of what NUDSA has achieved both in our work with Newcastle United and in the opportunities we provide for our members. This event was a fitting celebration of NUDSA's journey over the past 25 years. Long may it continue."
NUDSA secretary, Stephen Miller MBE, said: "It's amazing to think how far NUDSA has come in 25 years; our first event was held in the bar at Gateshead Stadium with about 50 people and now we have 200 guests at our events - unbelievable!
"The success of NUDSA is down to the committee, who all give their time for free to help drive the association, and our members who support everything we do. Hopefully we can keep growing and do even more."
NUDSA treasurer, Ros Miller, added: "Having been involved from the start it's great to see how NUDSA has developed and how many people we've helped over the years.
"It has been a lot of hard work to establish NUDSA and keep it going, but the rewards are brilliant when you can help people experience the thrill of football."
