Newcastle United's matchday programme has won two awards, including Programme of the Year



Newcastle United's matchday programme has been named the best in the Barclays Premier League.

The popular publication, which is designed and produced by O Publishing, has been awarded two gongs from the Northern Programme Club - Programme of the Year and Best Feature.

The programme has gone retro for the 2015/16 campaign, with a previous issue from the 1940s, 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s or 90s given a modern twist.

Continuing that theme, the winning feature is entitled 'Read All About It', and gives an in-depth insight into the original programme, while also looking at editions from that particular season.

Beating Crystal Palace and Sunderland into second and third place respectively, the judging panel said the Magpies' offering is "impressive and stands out from the rest.

"It is packed with quality, has a stylish design, is well produced, gives value for money and is something that is unparalleled.

"From start to the finish it is very impressive and great effort has been put in to cater for all supporters in the content."

"A number of clubs this season have utilised the inclusion of a retro programme cover for their first page. However Newcastle have gone one step further by not only using a cover from the past against the day's opposition, but have added an extra dimension by using the Feature of the Year 'Read All About It', which enhances the focus on the visiting team."

"Newcastle United have produced an exceptional, impressive and remarkable example of an award-winning magazine.

"It is the epitome of what a good programme should be like."

Last season, the A5-size, 100-page publication picked up awards for Most Improved Programme, Best Cover Design and Editor of the Year.

And having picked up a further two awards this season, Newcastle United managing editor Anthony Marshall said: "We are delighted to be recognised again by the Northern Programme Club.

"There are some excellent matchday programmes in the Premier League, and so to be named Programme of the Year is a huge honour for our small team, who work tirelessly to produce the publication.

"I would like to thank everyone who has had an input into the programme, as well as all those who pick up a copy at St. James' Park."

To purchase any of this season's award-winning matchday programmes, visit www.opublishing.com.