In an unexpected twist of home renovation, a die-hard Newcastle United fan has secretly transformed his downstairs bathroom into a mini replica of St James’ Park, all without his wife’s knowledge.
James Longworth, a devoted Newcastle United supporter, embarked on this daring project while his wife, Taz, was away enjoying a spa weekend.
The father of three meticulously laid strips of artificial turf on the bathroom floor, ingeniously mimicking the iconic football pitch. To complete the illusion, he purchased a £200 mural of St James’ Park online and covered an entire wall with it, right opposite the sink.
James, who is 40 years old and resides in Burnley, Lancashire, didn’t stop there. He painted the remaining walls in the team’s distinctive black and white stripes, a nod to their renowned home kit. To add authenticity, he adorned the space with football scarves, shirts, and framed signed prints from players.
The total cost of this remarkable bathroom renovation, inclusive of football memorabilia, amounted to £700. But the pièce de résistance is the soundbox that plays the team’s anthem, “Local Hero,” every time the bathroom door swings open.
James was inspired to undertake this project because he had been struggling to secure tickets to Newcastle United matches since the club’s Saudi takeover. He shared, “Since the takeover of the club, I have not been able to get any tickets at all to watch the Toon at St James’ or even away games, and living in Burnley I wanted my own St James’.”
His ingenious idea was hatched after his wife gave him free rein to do as he pleased with the bathroom. However, she did caution him not to do anything “too loud.”
James humorously recalled the moment of revelation, saying, “She would either love it or I was getting divorced. As she opened the door, the music hit, and so did the laughs. Luckily for me, she loved it… but was not a fan of the grass. Her exact words were – ‘How am I supposed to mop that?’ Luckily I’m still married and have my own St James’ Park now.”
This creative bathroom makeover is a testament to James’ unwavering love for his beloved football club and his willingness to go the extra mile to showcase his passion, even in the most unexpected places.
