Sodexo Prestige relaunches Shearer's St James' Park bar as NINE

Newcastle United footballers Shola Ameobi, Steven Taylor and Rob Elliot joined fans and staff from Sodexo Prestige at St James' Park for the launch of NINE Sports Bar and Lounge.

The bar, at the Gallowgate end of the stadium, was formerly called Shearer's and takes its name from the number on the shirt worn by the legendary goal scorer and England captain.

The caterer, which manages conferences and banqueting at St James' Park, invested £300,000 in the venue to create an extra leisure option for supporters on match days as well as an event space for other occasions.

Samantha Doyle, sales and marketing manager for Sodexo Prestige at St James' Park, said: "NINE will provide the perfect addition to our existing event facilities and it was great that Rob, Shola and Steven turned out to support the launch.

"Newcastle United's fans are the best in the country and we are confident Nine will not only be a great addition to the club but to the city's nightlife in general."

The 700-strong catering and events team at Sodexo Prestige currently runs match and non-match day hospitality at the ground. which is also used as a conference and wedding venue.

Photo by Purple Pomegranate Photography