MATCH DAY

Newcastle United v Swansea

My brother John always takes my nephew Gary to see Newcastle United play once a year as a birthday treat. Gary's birthday was in February but this was the first home game that they were both free. My sister in law gave the 3 of us a lift into Newcastle and before kick off we had a couple of drinks in a very packed Newcastle Arms.

This is John and me outside the pub. THIS shot was taken last year in the same place. Its strange to look at last years shot and realise I was 3½ stone heavier then.

John and Gary weren't sitting near me so we went our separate ways when we reached the ground. Newcastle United seemed to be doing OK. They got the first goal but then let Swansea score just before half time. Got to full time and the score was still 1 - 1 which the Newcastle fans would have been quite happy with. Unfortunately Swansea were awarded a penalty in extra time and scored. Final result Newcastle 1 Swansea 2. Not much of a birthday treat for Gary.

I declined a lift home as I wanted to pop to Waitrose for some fruit - and Tino's favourite cat food.

Just had a quiet evening watching TV.