Recovering boss sees side in action

Lodge was at Saturday's First Division South clash with Basford United at The M Club Stadium to see caretaker manager Dave Dale guide Town to a 1-1 draw with Basford United in First Division South, their first draw after a single defeat and three wins since the 53-year-old fell ill while returning from a short break on Saturday 5 March.

Town's squad are pictured posing in specially produced t-shirts for a get well message for their manager before beating Stocksbridge Park Steels 10 days later as he started his recuperation following a successful operation.

Newcastle Town secretary Ray Tatton is hoping that seeing his side returning to good form at the weekend will only help Lodge's own recovery.

Tatton said: "Ivan made his first visit to a game following his stroke as he continues his recuperation. Ivan, accompanied by wife Kerry, came to Saturday’s game against Basford United and will be buoyed by Town’s recent upsurge in form collecting seven points out of nine in eight days against three of the promotion chasing sides. Although there is still a long way to go he is continuing to improve on his way to recovery."

* Newcastle Town are running a new scheme to encourage more young players who are deaf or are hard of hearing to get involved in the game. Starting in May, Castle officials say the initiative offers players a great opportunity to be coached in a deaf friendly environment.

Potential players should contact Gavin Appleby on 07904 511561 for more details.

Images courtesy of www.newcastletown.co.uk

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