Mark Carruthers: Football, Community and Carabao Cup Glory

In this episode, we're joined by the brilliant Mark Carruthers, freelance football writer and passionate voice of North East football.  Mark shares his journey from growing up in Newcastle's West End to covering over 50 non-league clubs across the region. From his early days following Newcastle United with his family to covering FA Cup runs at Wembley, Mark's life has been shaped by the power of football, community, and Geordie pride.  We dive into the emotions of Newcastle United's historic Carabao Cup win at Wembley, the magic of grassroots football, and what makes football culture in the North East so unique. Mark also talks about his experiences interviewing legends like Alan Shearer and meeting Kevin Keegan, and reflects on the inspiring rise of Newcastle United Women.  Expect a real celebration of what it means to live and breathe football in the North East.  As always, we round off the episode with our signature quick-fire round — expect Greggs orders, hidden gems, and plenty of laughs!  Whether you're a lifelong Toon supporter, a champion of your local club, or simply love a good story about passion and perseverance, this one's for you.    MARK'S BIO: A North East football writer who has covered the region's non-league football scene for the last decade for the likes of the Chronicle, Sunderland Echo, Sunday Sun and Shields Gazette. Mark also helps the Gazette's coverage of Newcastle United and is a lifelong Magpies supporter after going to his first game in January 1988. Mark is also an ambassador for North East-based suicide prevention charity If U Care Share Foundation.    🔗 USEFUL LINKS:  Mark's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markcarruthers_/  If U Care Share Foundation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifucareshare/    🌍 More from Geordie Pride:   🎧 Website: www.geordiepride.co.uk   📺 YouTube: Geordie Pride Channel   📸 Instagram: @geordiepride   💌 Apply to be a guest or sponsor an episode: geordiepride.co.uk/apply   📮 Want a shoutout? Tell us what you love about the North East: [email protected]