BREAKING NEWS: Gary Bennett, a revered figure in Sunderland, receives the prestigious North East Personality of the Year accolade.

Gary Bennett, the former Sunderland star and current BBC Radio Newcastle co-commentator, has been honored with the title of North East Personality of the Year.

During his illustrious playing career, Bennett dedicated 11 seasons to Sunderland following his transfer from Cardiff City in 1984. Beyond the pitch, he has been a staunch advocate against racism in football, a cause for which he was recently bestowed with an MBE.

Expressing his gratitude upon receiving the award, which was voted on by the North East Football Writers’ Association, Bennett stated, “I got involved because I believe in what we are doing. I’ve suffered, and I want to raise awareness, not only in sport but in society. Racism can happen to anyone of any skin colour, religion, culture; if you are a minority, it is likely you will suffer from some form of racism.”

Gary will be presented with the award this Sunday at the North East Football Writers’ Association Awards night, sponsored by William Hill, an event held annually at the Ramside Hall Hotel in Durham to celebrate the finest aspects of North East football. The occasion also serves as a fundraiser for The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, a part of Newcastle Hospitals Charity dedicated to advancing cancer detection and treatment methods.

Colin Young, Secretary of the North East Football Writers’ Association, emphasized the significance of Bennett’s recognition, stating, “This is a very important award for our Association and the choice of recipient is always given a lot of consideration. Gary is someone we all like as a person and a pundit, but he’s also someone who suffered racist abuse as a player. His determination to stop the racism directed from some so-called supporters became part of a much wider picture, and he’s made a positive impact across society as a whole. We’re hugely proud that he’ll be receiving this year’s North East Football Writers’ Association Personality of the Year with the full backing of The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.”

The North East Football Writers’ Association Awards are decided upon by football writers throughout the region and recognize achievements during the 2022/2023 season. Among this year’s other recipients are Kieran Trippier (Newcastle United), named Men’s Player of the Year, Sarah Robson (Durham Women FC), honored as Women’s Player of the Year, Hayden Hackney (Middlesbrough FC), distinguished as Young Men’s Player of the Year, and Katy Watson (Sunderland AFC), recognized as Young Women’s Player of the Year.