FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF BOBBY SWINNEY SUPPORTING OUR FOUNDATION

On 19th December, aged just 67, Bobby Swinney very unexpectedly died on his way to watch Newcastle United at St James’ Park.

Our Patron, Alan Shearer, with Bobby Swinney

The “football-mad family man” was going to the match with his granddaughter when he collapsed suddenly near the Gallowgate steps. Police officers and paramedics performed CPR, for which the family are very grateful, but ultimately Bobby’s life could not be saved.

Bobby had three sons, Garry, Mark and Paul, and four grandchildren, Kieran, Abbie, Emma and Harry.

Born and bred in Jarrow, he spent his working life as a CNC turner, building aeroplane engine parts, and held a season ticket at Newcastle United for over 30 years. Bobby had many friends who are missing him.

Obviously, this has been an extremely upsetting time for all his family and loved ones and it says a great deal about them that they thought of others at such a difficult moment and asked for donations in Bobby’s memory to come to our Foundation.

Bobby’s son, Mark, has also decided to run the Great North Run for us this year, and he explains why supporting the charity is, “the right thing for Dad.”

Mark says: “Bobby was a huge supporter of Sir Bobby Robson, as are the whole family, for everything he achieved throughout his career but also the legacy that he created with the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and the support it gives people facing cancer.

“That’s really important to everyone and especially to us because Garry, my brother, was diagnosed with cancer in July 2021 and he’s been receiving his treatment at the Freeman Hospital.

Garry Swinney

“After being diagnosed with osteosarcoma of the mandible, Garry started a course of chemotherapy and he’ll be undergoing surgery in the next few weeks. The treatment and support that he’s received have been excellent.

“As a family, we were happy to be able to give the funeral donations in Dad’s memory to the Foundation, especially given the treatment that Garry is currently receiving, and I’m looking forward to doing the Great North Run, too. It will likely be another emotional day for us.”

Lady Elsie says: “It was extremely thoughtful of Bobby’s family to think of us at such a difficult time. Losing a loved one is always hard but I think it must be especially upsetting when it’s so sudden.

“Bobby was obviously very well-loved and we’re grateful for the donations made in his memory to support our work. And we wish Garry all the very best with his cancer treatment.”