Supermac: Newcastle United meets the Type 27

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 Just a few weeks ago Newcastle United languished at the foot of the Premier League table. This weekend after a startling run of form they rose to the giddy heights of mid table. The pattern of the 1971/72 season was much the same, rooted to the bottom of the First Division at the end of October, they finished the season in 11th place, largely thanks to new signing Malcolm Macdonald who scored 30 goals that season. The newcomer from London became a 'Toon' hero, going on to score 138 goals in his 5 seasons with he club. The Leazes End resounded to the chant 'Supermac, Superstar, how many goals have you scored so far?' (think Jesus Christ Superstar to get the tune!)

Supermac also became the face of advertising campaigns by Leech Homes, the local builders who have already featured heavily in this blog. The copywriters certainly had some 'super' fun in developing the campaign.

This advert from the 'Evening Chronicle', circa 1975 also sets out some of the key features which made William Leech homes such a powerful influence on the built environment of North East England. These house styles could be seen on dozens of developments across the region, aided by the inclusion of legal fees in the price and little extras like a fitted carpet in the Starter Home, a utility room (probably better described as an outhouse, equipped with a cold tap and stone sink), not to mention a free tree planted in every front garden. 

Another historic detail is that the showhouse was furnished by 'North Eastern Co-operative Society'. Having visited many Leech showhomes, I remember that these were a far cry from the deigned led model homes of today - with little in the way of decoration or options to be viewed. Just a selection of good, solid but standard furniture. 

In the corner is the little cut out coupon to post in requesting full information. In large part it was by filling in such coupons that brought me the collection of information and advertising material that I am now reflecting on!

Back to Supermac, the advert makes reference to him living in a Leech home. I wonder how many buyers thought they could share in this superstar's lifestyle by purchasing a Leech 2 bedroom flat? The Leech home Malcolm Macdonald  lived in was of course somewhat different, a bespoke, split level design on the outskirts of Morpeth! And, while the stands might have echoed with a chant about scoring goals, my primary school playground heard a slightly different version: 'Supermac, Superstar, wears frilly knickers and a Playtex bra' (now there's another iconic 70s image).

My passion of course is for house plans - the advert included the ubiquitous Type 27, and guess what? I have the rest!. Here are the M50 and J.1




 

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