New book explores Jackie Milburn’s Ashington roots and the making of ‘Wor Jackie’

According to The Guardian, a new book details Jackie Milburn’s upbringing in Ashington, his shyness and the work ethic that set him apart. It also explains why the possessive Geordie term “Wor” — meaning “our” — was applied to him alone among Newcastle players.

Milburn’s birthplace was central to his legend. Ashington, known as “the biggest pit village in the world,” was a close-knit coal town of terraced houses and pitheads, where local life revolved around whippets, leeks, football and pints at the club.

Milburn himself recognised the importance of self-discipline. He recalled that his father, Alec, “could have gone to Tottenham but preferred to stay home and drink his ale,” a cautionary example from his own family.

The book portrays Milburn as both a great sportsman and a man of the people — “everybody’s friend” in Newcastle. Readers can find related match highlights on this site.