Newbie questions

[spyboy1]

I've checked the archives and searched the internet, but haven't been able to answer a couple of questions by myself.

Being an American, I hope you can forgive me asking what might seem awfully basic questions.

#1 - Why are fans of Newcastle United called "The Toon Army" and why would a book about Newcastle United be called "The Toon"?

#2 - What exactly is a "Geordie" and where does the name come from?

#3 - Why are they called "The Magpies"? Is it because of the black and white striped jerseys or are the jerseys striped in black and white because of the name?

Thanks for any help you can provide.

JeffB

[al1892]

well 'toon' is geordie speak for 'town' as in newcastle town and therefore toon army originates from the fact that the supporters are from newcastle town basically.

[Looney]

Well black and white teams tend to be called the Magpies. So I reckon Newcastle's the Magpies because of their stripes and not the other way round.

Dunno about the Geordie bit tho. A geordie is a person born in Newcastle-upon-Tyne and the surrounding area as far as I know.

[al1892]

and if youre lucky you become an adopted geordie like myself :D

[spyboy1]

Thanks for the help. The right answer was close to my guess. I thought Toon was related to the Tyne, but now that I know it's Town, it all makes sense now.

It's kind of like the shirt I saw for The Gunners spelled Gooners.

Thanks again,
JeffB