I was born in Tynemouth Infirmary in North Shields, the first born son of Jean and Harry Cansdale.
I served my apprenticeship at Gregson Pipework(formerly Peter Johnson’s) in South Shields, and attended South Shields Marine and Technical College in the 1980’s.
I spent all my working life in construction in the petro-chemical field of engineering, working both on and offshore.
Now in my late fifties I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I especially like socialising in the Fat Ox public club in Whitley Bay and Tynemouth Social Club.
I am friends with ILNS creator Simmie’s husband Peter. We frequently meet for a pint in the Fat Ox with our dogs Little Edd and Ruby.
Having been introduced to Simmie by Peter as one of regular authors on the Newcastle United online fanzine The Mag, she whetted my appetite to contribute to ILNS.
My favourite place in North Shields is probably the Fish Quay. I have been lucky enough to have sailed and worked on a local trawler in my fifties.
Although the pubs in North Shields were thriving in the 1980’s I no longer have a favourite pub. The Terminus Club is about the best you can get for a good pint with great cràic.
I specialise in Newcastle United’s history and football nostalgia.
North Shields is a United stronghold and my aim is to keep local fans interested and informed in what’s happening at St James’ Park, through my monthly column ‘If The Kids Are United’.
My brother is the Vice Chair at North Shields FC, and I am happy to say that the club is now in a much better and stable place than it was 12 months ago.
That is through the hard work of so many people in the community, rallying around to preserve something that was so special and precious to them.
Our historical town North Shields should always have a football team.
Although not a Robins fan myself I try to ‘plug’ Shields whenever I can regarding events and fundraisers etc, through my writings about NUFC.
‘I Love North Shields’ has only really just started but I am already pleased to be a small part of such a professionally published magazine.
Mentioning my good and late beloved Ma recently in my column was quite emotional. She had to be in it though because she had been there for the whole of my journey following the Toon.
The establishments I frequent are all familiar with my involvement with various Newcastle United groups and concepts.
If anyone wants to speak to me personally they can ask for me at the Fat Ox in Whitley Bay or Tynemouth Club.
Bazoox ‘If The Kids Are United’
