Pete Graves
LISTEN TO PETES INTERVIEW WITH SIR BOBBY ROBSON
Gravesie commentates on the Newcastle matches.
Born in Corbridge Northumberland, he spent his entire youth dribbling a football around fields and dreaming of playing for Newcastle United.
When he was 17 he decided he would never be good enough to run out at St James’ Park, so switched his attentions towards becoming a successful sports reporter and commentator.
After leaving University, Gravesie got a job working on hospital radio. His successful sports show quickly got the attention of station’s around the North East and he was taken to Metro Radio to help out in news and sport.
A year later he commentated on his first football match and it couldn’t have been much tougher… Portsmouth against Newcastle United at Fratton Park… a boring nil – nil draw!
Two years later he secured his dream move to Century Radio… where he commentates on the Newcastle United matches.
A bit about Pete...
What is the story you have covered that you are most proud of?
A one hour special on the life of Sir Bobby Robson. I managed to get interviews with just about every big name that has pulled on a black and white shirt in the past twenty years. Alan Shearer, Paul Gascoigne, Peter Beardsley… Plus of course an in-depth chat with Sir Bobby – what a legend! Brilliant.
What is your most embarrassing on-air moment?
Getting Obafemi Martins and Antoine Sibierski mixed up during a match. They couldn’t look more different… but when Oba was clear on goal I screamed “great chance for Sibierski”.
When you were a child - what did you want to be when you grew up?
A footballer.
What are you most scared of?
Relegation.
What else do you do apart from commentating on Newcastle United for Century Radio?
I work as part of the sports team at ITV Tyne Tees. Presenting on North East Tonight, and reporting around the North East.
When you tell people that you are a journalist, what reaction do you get?
Most people want to know if I’ve got any ‘inside information’ on who Newcastle are going to sign next… I never do!
How do you like spending your days off?
Walking my dog Benji, playing Golf, in the garden or in bed.
Tell us about someone notable you have interviewed.
I get to meet all the top North East football people. I have to say though, I particularly enjoy interviewing football managers… whether it’s Kevin Keegan, Gareth Southgate, Roy Keane, Danny Wilson or Dave Penney, they are all very interesting and intelligent guys.
I would be most starstruck if I met...
Pele.
What is the toughest thing you have been asked to do as part of your job?
Read the breakfast news at 6am... I’m not an early morning person.
Have you ever been recognised in public?
Yes, sometimes.
What was your nickname at school and why?
Gravesie... obviously.
Who's your favourite sport reporter/presenter and why?
John Motson! I grew up listening to him, and I’ve recently had the pleasure of meeting him on a couple of occasions. He has his critics, but I think he’s the ultimate professional. I’ve also got a lot of time for Georgie Thompson off Sky Sports… no particular reason.