36 members set off for Sunderland, and firstly called in at the National Glass Centre.
Our timing was perfect to see a glass blowing demonstration and to grab a quick coffee.
On our arrival at the Stadium of Light we were warmly greeted by three of their official guides.
We were given their media room as a base to eat our packed lunches, and then divided into two groups. Although the stadium is not the biggest we have been to, the tour was certainly one of the best. It was so informative and lasted for two hours…. The time passing so quickly as it was so interesting.
We were shown a lovely photo of the Queen mother presenting Raich Carter with the FA Cup in 1937. Born in Sunderland, Raich made 245 appearances and scored 118 goals, between 1931 and 1939. He is a great hero there and now has a community sports centre named after him in the town.
We cannot forget our special manager, Steve Bruce, sacked by Sunderland in 2011, who came to us the following June for four exciting and memorable years.
Seb Larson was well liked by the supporters there and our guide became very friendly with his family, very sorry to see him leave. He was with them for six years before coming to Hull City.
Another one of their heroes was David Meyler who started his professional career there. They agreed that he was a man of character and was very likable.
Our tour ended with us receiving a certificate, and it’s a visit that we shall all remember with affection.
