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September 19, 2024In the passionate world of football fandom, few groups have made as significant an impact as Wor Flags. This fan-led, fan-funded organization has become synonymous with the electric atmosphere at St James’ Park, home of Newcastle United Football Club. But their influence extends far beyond the confines of the iconic stadium, touching various aspects of Newcastle’s sporting and cultural landscape.
The Birth of a Movement
Wor Flags’ journey began in 2016, a turbulent year that saw Newcastle United relegated to the Championship for the second time. In response to this setback, a group of dedicated fans founded Gallowgate Flags with a simple yet powerful goal: to uplift the stadium’s atmosphere. That same year, another group, Wor Hyem 1892, was created with the aim of bringing back the noise to St James’ Park.
In 2017, these two groups joined forces, merging to become the current day Wor Flags. This union combined stunning flag displays with a movement to reinvigorate the atmosphere at St James’ Park – a match made in the Toon, as locals would say.
Early Days and Championship Resilience
The formation of Wor Flags (then still operating as separate entities Gallowgate Flags and Wor Hyem 1892) coincided with one of the most challenging periods in Newcastle United’s recent history. The club’s relegation to the Championship in 2016 was a bitter pill for fans to swallow, but it also sparked a renaissance in terrace culture at St James’ Park.
During the 2016-17 Championship season, the fledgling flag groups began to make their presence felt. Their displays weren’t just about adding colour to the Gallowgate End; they were a statement of unwavering support for a club in transition. One of the most memorable early displays was a massive banner featuring the club’s crest, accompanied by the words “We’ll Support You Ever More” – a powerful message of loyalty in trying times.
The arrival of Rafa Benitez as manager had galvanized the fanbase, and the flag groups played a crucial role in visualising this renewed hope and unity. Benitez, a Champions League-winning manager, had chosen to stay with Newcastle despite their relegation, and the fans were determined to show their appreciation.
Throughout the Championship campaign, the displays grew in ambition and scale. For a crucial match against Brighton & Hove Albion, another promotion contender, the Gallowgate End was transformed into a sea of black and white, with hundreds of flags creating an intimidating backdrop. The message was clear: even in the second tier, St James’ Park remained a fortress.
The success of these early displays laid the groundwork for something much bigger. Fans began to look forward to the pre-match revelations as much as the games themselves. Social media buzzed with anticipation before each home fixture, wondering what visual spectacle would greet them at St James’ Park.
Wor Flags’ activities began to attract attention beyond Tyneside. Other clubs’ supporters took notice, and soon, Newcastle’s displays were being hailed as among the best in the country. The dedication and creativity shown during the Championship season had set a new standard, not just for Newcastle United, but for fan culture across English football.
As Newcastle prepared for their return to the Premier League, it was clear that the flag displays had become an integral part of the matchday experience. What had started as a response to adversity was now poised to become a celebration of Newcastle United’s identity, history, and ambition. The merger of Gallowgate Flags and Wor Hyem 1892 into Wor Flags was just around the corner, and with it, the dawn of a new era in fan-led atmosphere generation at St James’ Park.
A Brief Hiatus and a Triumphant Return
The group’s relationship with the club faced a significant challenge in 2019. After another year of poor relations between the club and fans under the ownership of Mike Ashley, Wor Flags, along with thousands of other season ticket holders, decided to boycott St James’ Park until Ashley left the club.
Their patience and perseverance paid off in 2021 when the long-awaited takeover of Newcastle United finally went through. With Ashley’s departure, Wor Flags made a triumphant return to St James’ Park, ready to paint the stadium black and white once again.
The Art of Atmosphere
Wor Flags’ mission is straightforward yet ambitious: “to create displays at St James’ Park that are worthy of this great club.” They achieve this through a variety of means:
- Hundreds of black and white hand-held waver flags
- Larger custom design one and two-poler waver flags
- Large text banners featuring messages of support
- Foils, surfers, and custom tifos
These displays are entirely fan-funded, made possible through direct donations or the purchase of merchandise like mini-flags and Wor Beer, a light pale ale created in partnership with Anarchy Brew Co. Newcastle.
Memorable Displays
Over the years, Wor Flags has created numerous unforgettable displays. Some of the most notable include:
- Unity Equals Victory: A timely banner displayed at the end of the 2017/18 season, celebrating the club’s survival in the Premier League.
- Big River: A spine-tingling display featuring lyrics from Jimmy Nail’s “Big River,” unveiled during the first match after the 2021 takeover.
- Angel of the North: A massive black and white shirt draped over the iconic Angel of the North statue, sending a message of good luck before a crucial cup final against Manchester Reds.
- King Kev: A tribute to club legend Kevin Keegan, featuring one of his famous quotes about the club.
- We Are The Mags: The largest flag of its kind in Europe, covering the entire Gallowgate end and featuring the names of everyone who donated towards it.
- We’ll Support You Evermore: A display spanning the entire East stand, featuring the colours of the 1996/97 away kit.
- A Sea of Black and White: Perhaps their most ambitious display to date, involving the entire stadium with unique elements in each stand.
- Wembley: A spectacular sea of black and white flags at Wembley Stadium during Newcastle’s first cup final in 24 years.
Beyond St James’ Park
While Wor Flags is primarily associated with Newcastle United, their influence extends far beyond the men’s first team. The group also creates displays for:
- Newcastle United Women’s Team
- Newcastle Eagles basketball team
- Local events such as Sam Fender concerts
- Chris Dobey’s return to Premier League Darts
- The opening of The Stack outside St James’ Park
This broader involvement showcases Wor Flags’ commitment to the wider Newcastle sporting and cultural community.
Breaking Records and Gaining Recognition
Wor Flags’ ambition knows no bounds. They now boast the largest flag in the UK, a testament to their growing influence and the unwavering support of Newcastle fans. Their displays have also gained international recognition, particularly for their impressive Champions League displays as Newcastle returned to Europe’s elite competition.
Community Impact
Beyond their visual spectacles, Wor Flags is deeply committed to supporting the local community. They are strong supporters of the NUFC Fans Foodbank and regularly organise fundraisers for local North East charities. The group has also been a vocal advocate for safe standing at St James’ Park.
The Manager’s Perspective: Eddie Howe on Wor Flags
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has been effusive in his praise for Wor Flags and their impact on the team. In a recent press conference, Howe stated:
“What Wor Flags does is truly special. The atmosphere they create, especially for big games, gives us a real edge. It’s not just about the visuals, impressive as they are. It’s about the passion and unity they represent. Our players feel that energy and it drives them on.”
Howe has also noted the group’s importance in attracting new players:
“When we’re trying to bring new players to the club, we always make sure they understand what it means to play at St James’ Park. The displays by Wor Flags are a big part of that. It shows potential signings the passion of our fanbase and what they could be part of here.”
Getting Involved with Wor Flags
For fans looking to support or join Wor Flags, there are several ways to get involved:
- Donations: Wor Flags accepts one-off and regular donations through their website. Every contribution, no matter how small, helps fund their spectacular displays.
- Merchandise: Purchasing Wor Flags merchandise, including their popular Wor Beer, is another way to support the group financially.
- Volunteering: Wor Flags is always looking for volunteers to help with flag distribution, display setup, and various other tasks on matchdays.
- Membership: While not a traditional membership organisation, fans can sign up for the Wor Flags mailing list to stay informed about upcoming displays and opportunities to get involved.
To get in touch with Wor Flags, fans can:
- Visit their website: www.worflags.org.uk
- Follow them on social media: @worflags on Twitter and Instagram
- Email them at: [email protected]
Additional Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who are Wor Flags?
A: Wor Flags is a fan-led, fan-funded group dedicated to creating spectacular flag and banner displays at Newcastle United matches, primarily at St James’ Park.
Q: How is Wor Flags funded?
A: Wor Flags is funded by fan donations and merchandise sales, including their Wor Beer.
Q: Can anyone volunteer with Wor Flags?
A: Yes, Wor Flags welcomes volunteers from all walks of life. You just need to be passionate about Newcastle United and willing to put in the time and effort.
Q: How often does Wor Flags create displays?
A: Wor Flags creates displays for every home game at St James’ Park, with particularly large displays for significant matches like European nights and crucial games.
Q: Does Wor Flags only support the men’s team?
A: No, Wor Flags also creates displays for Newcastle United Women’s team and has been involved with other local sports teams and events.
Q: How can I suggest an idea for a display?
A: Wor Flags welcomes ideas from fans. You can reach out to them through their social media channels or email with your suggestions.
Looking Ahead
As Newcastle United continues its resurgence under new ownership, Wor Flags faces the exciting challenge of continually outdoing themselves. With each passing season, the anticipation grows not just for the football on the pitch, but for the visual spectacles that Wor Flags will unveil. Their displays have become an integral part of the matchday experience, rivalling some of the great European club displays and transforming St James’ Park into a cauldron of black and white passion.
As long as there’s football in Newcastle, you can be sure that Wor Flags will be there, flying high and proud, embodying the spirit of a club and a city united in their love for the beautiful game.