Been going downhill for many years; VOICE OF THE NORTH.

SO former manager Jim Smith thinks Newcastle United have gone downhill since Mike Astley took over (The Journal, July 30). Come off it, Jim, Newcastle have been going downhill for years. Was it 1969 when they last opened the display cabinet? Too many people over the years, both on and off the field, have been attracted to St James's by the illuminated pound sign outside. Will they never learn? Newcastle United is not just a football team, it is a vital element in the ongoing life of this city.

The fact that 50,000 can go there every week on the off chance of seeing any one of 11 players scoring a goal, to put them in a good fettle for work on the following Monday, surely that speaks volumes.

No, it is not just about football. The sign at St James's should read "Passionate People". DEREK TOWARD, Ponteland, Northumberland