Taxi firm flies Mariners colours to cheer on South Shields in charge for cup glory

Westoe Taxi's director Gary Davies and former player supporting South Shields FC

Gary Davies, who is a director at Westoe Taxis, in Dean Road, South Shields, has decked out his office windows to show his support for the team - who are just two games away from the final.

Westoe Taxis has been a sponsor of the club for more than 10 years and Gary, a former Ipswich Town FC player, also used to play in midfield for The Mariners back in the 1980s and 1990s.

The 52-year-old, from South Shields, said: “We’re totally convinced they’re going to win. They’re odds-on favourite.

“Well, they had better win anyway. We’ve not decorated our window for nothing”

“We’ve been a sponsor for more than 10 years now, and it’s brilliant seeing everyone getting excited and enjoying watching their games.

“I know our lads love going along to watch them.”

Record-breaking crowds watch last month’s FA Vase quarter-final game against Newport Pagnall Town at Mariners Park, with 3,161 people turning out to see the 6-1 win.

Gary, who also played for England’s youth team, says the support has always been there for South Shields FC.

He said: “Even back in my day when we got through to the Shipowners’ Cup Final in the nineties we had 1,500 supporters coming to watch us play.

“I think people in the town have always had a fondness for the team and wanted them to do well.

“It’s just brilliant now that they’re on this winning streak, they have their own grounds again and people are turning out in their masses.

“Hopefully, this will continue to grow and grow.”

South Shields FC will be heading down to Warwickshire to play against Coleshill Town at Pack Meadow for the first leg of the semi-finals on Saturday, March 11.

The return match takes place exactly a week later at Mariners Park

Tickets are now sold out for the away match – but there’s still some available for the home game.

Ticket prices have been set at £8 for adults, £6 for students and over-65s and £4 for under-16s.

They’re available in person at Mariners Park or by calling 0191 454 7800.

l Are you supporting South Shields FC? Let the Gazette know how, by calling 5017446 or email [email protected].