Ex-Sunderland chairman Sir Bob Murray and Newcastle legend Peter Beardsley send messages of support to Consett ahead of Hebburn Town clash

Former Sunderland chairman Sir Bob Murray and Magpies legend Peter Beardsley have both recently contacted Steelmen chairman Frank Bell as his club prepares to walk out at Wembley for the first time in their 122-year history.

The Consett supremo has become close with Consett-born Murray over the last six months as his hometown club prepares for a historic occasion.

And United legend Beardsley also has ties with Steelmen manager Terry Mitchell after they both worked within the Magpies academy.

Bell told The Echo: “Sir Bob has been in contact and he is proud to see what Consett is doing for our town.

“He is a Consett lad, he started his journey in industry and football in our town and we have become close over the last few months.

“He has sent me a number of very kind messages regarding the final and everything that the club is doing in the community and it’s a lovely touch.

“He will be at Wembley on Monday and we will be delighted to see him there.

“Peter (Beardsley) also got in touch and sent me a wonderful text message wishing us good luck for the final.

“It’s lovely to see two men that have worked at the top level of the game getting in touch and taking the time to do so.”

Monday’s game will be only the second all-Northern League FA Vase Final after Dunston UTS’ claimed a 2-0 win against West Auckland Town at Wembley in 2012.

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