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The life and times of the Gallowgate End scoreboard – a lost icon of Newcastle United

In the pre‐digital age, a wooden and later electronic board kept the St James’ Park crowd up to date…

Published: Sunday, 25 October 2026 at 1:20 PM
The life and times of the Gallowgate End scoreboard – a lost icon of Newcastle United
Key Things to Know
  • The Gallowgate End scoreboard stood as a cherished icon of Newcastle United before its removal in 1994.
  • A £65,000 electronic board was introduced in December 1980 featuring score updates and dancing digital figures.
  • A larger £150,000 replacement was installed in 1988 by Gateshead firm NEI Electronics.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Newcastle United's former Gallowgate End scoreboard evolved from a manually hung wooden structure into a pioneering electronic display at St James' Park. Introduced in December 1980 as part of a sponsorship deal with Scottish and Newcastle Breweries, the £65,000 system featured match information, celebratory dancing figures, and custom messages for supporters gathered on the unroofed terraces.

Replaced in 1988 by a £150,000 model built by NEI Electronics, the iconic board witnessed memorable club moments, including Kevin Keegan's 1984 testimonial farewell and occasional technical mishaps. The famous fixture and its surrounding terraces were ultimately dismantled following the 1993-94 season during the stadium's redevelopment into an all-seater venue.

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