Grisly Tales Of Northumbria Book
31st October 2021

Alan’s latest book is now available to order from Northern Heritage. Welcome, fellow ghoul-hunters, to the spine-chilling world of evil witches and headless corpses, legendary…
Read moreWeird Walks
31st October 2021

Discovery Museum in Newcastle have just released Weird Walks, A journey through the dark side of Newcastle with Alan. Walk the route using the Weird…
Read moreSarah Darling
28th February 2019

American singer/songwriter Sarah Darling recently popped into see Alan. She’s currently on touring her ‘Wonderland’ album in the UK.
Read moreLauren
29th January 2019

Lauren was diagnosed with IIH last year. Alan invited her into the studio after her mum Stephanie rung the NightOwls show to talk about the…
Read moreClaire Richards Steps Into Metro!
22nd January 2019

Steps star Claire Richards popped into the studio recently to see Alan.
Read moreBeth Macari
30th October 2018

The wonderful Beth Macari popped in for a chat with Alan recently.
Read moreThe Pie & Bottle Shop
30th October 2018

Who doesn’t love a pie? Alan does and here he is with his goodie bag from the award winning Pie & Bottle Shop.
Read moreAde Edmonson
30th October 2018

What a legend Ade Edmonson is? Here he is with Alan when he popped into the studio recently.
Read moreBenidorm Live
10th September 2018

As soon as the curtain went down at the Theatre Royal’s performance of Benidorm Live some of the cast nipped out of the stage door…
Read moreAlan’s Never Gonna Give Him Up!
6th September 2018

We had great fun when Rick Astley came into the studio to chat to Alan. So much fun, in fact, that Alan wanted to ‘Never…
Read moreAlan Wins Gold At The New York Radio Awards!
17th August 2018

Alan’s won Gold in the New York Radio Awards for Radio Personality: Local Market in the 2018 International Radio Program category. Here he is, posing…
Read moreBusker Bailey Nelson Pops In
2nd August 2018

Busking sensation Bailey Nelson has gone viral across the world this week after he was spotted playing on Northumberland Street in Newcastle. After hearing all…
Read moreWanted!
1st August 2018

Ex Wanted band member, Max George, popped by to have a chat with Alan (and to marvel at his shirt!) at the Metro Radio studios…
Read moreTilly’s Bucket List
12th June 2018

Tilly the dog is dying, so the owner is giving him a bucket list of treats one was to see The Blade Alan Robson!
Read moreAlan Meets Daniel Docherty
15th April 2018

Daniel had a great time when he stopped by the Metro Radio studios on Sunday night. He’s currently touring the UK and Europe with Calum…
Read moreAfnan Prince Pops In
11th April 2018

North Shields singer-songwriter Afnan Prince popped into the studio to see Alan recently. His new single ‘Scared’ is out in early May.
Read moreFooling Around With Birds!
9th April 2018

Alan visited The Rising Sun Countryside Centre in Benton recently. Set in 400 acres of open countryside near Newcastle he particularly enjoyed meeting the birds…
Read moreAlan Catches Up With Franz Ferdinand
29th January 2018

Here’s Alan with Alex from Franz Ferdinand, who popped into the Metro Studios recently.
Read moreCollecting For Cash For Kids
10th December 2017

Alan and the team were collecting for the Cash For Kids charity at a chilly Dalton Park tonight at the Vectra Meet.
Read moreAlan Receives Nomination At Audio Production Awards
23rd November 2017

Alan has been nominated in the category for ‘Best Presenter – Speech’ at the Audio Production Awards.
Read moreAlan Wins His 80th Award!
21st November 2017
Alan wins his 80th award from The International Tourist Board Awards, for his shows with Adventures In Radio, when he broadcast live from Barbados, including…
Read morePerfect Blue Sky
15th November 2017

Swede/Aussie duo Perfect Blue Sky chatted and played live in the studio with Alan tonight. They are currently nearing the end of a European tour…
Read moreZeals From Somerset!
9th November 2017

Somerset 3 piece Zeals popped into the Metro Radio studios recently for a chat with Alan before supporting the Hoosiers at the O2 Academy in…
Read moreBlue Rose Code
7th November 2017

Edinburgh born Ross Wilson AKA Blue Rose Code stopped by with his band before their gig at the Cluny in Newcastle, the fourth date in…
Read moreLucy May
7th November 2017

Kent born singer Lucy May is currently touring the UK but made time to pop in and see Alan before her gig at The Central…
Read moreJoAnna Lee
2nd November 2017

American singer JoAnna Lee dropped into the Metro Radio Studios recently midway through her UK Tour.
Read moreAll Aboard For Halloween!
31st October 2017

Alan gets ready to board the Tyne Idols bus for his Halloween Grisly Tales Tour.
Read moreAlan Interviews A Tyne Idol
30th October 2017

Original Lindisfarne band member Ray Laidlaw speaks to Alan about his life in music and as a partner of tour company ‘Tyne Idols’, who will…
Read moreAlan Meets Jessica The Goth!
25th October 2017

Jessica, star of new play ‘Goth Weekend’ popped into see Alan at the Metro FM studios. The play is currently on at the Live Theatre…
Read moreVoice Winner!
25th October 2017

Lena, winner of the Israeli version of ‘The Voice’ popped into the Metro Radio studios recently for a chat with Alan before supporting Little Mix.
Read moreAlan Meets Rhys Lewis
24th August 2017

Singer/Songwriter Rhys Lewis popped into the studio to see Alan and promote his new single ‘Be Your Man’.
Read moreAlan Meets Wildwood Kin
24th August 2017

Indie Alt Folk harmony trio Wildwood Kin popped into the studio to see Alan and promote their new album ‘Turning Tides’.
Read moreAlan Takes To The Air
13th August 2017

Alan experiences a different type of ‘on air’ experience by hitting the skies to help promote the Wings & Wheels Festival at Eshott Airfield on…
Read moreAlan Gets Inked
14th June 2017

Check out Alan’s new sleeve artwork courtesy of ‘Not Just A Pretty Facepaint‘, who airbrushed this design onto his arm.
Read moreAlan Comperes ‘Big Day Out with Metro Radio’ In Aid Of Cash For Kids
3rd June 2017

Alan and the Nightowl’s team were at Ocean Beach Pleasure Park in South Shields for music, games, prizes and giveaways with live performances by Big Audition…
Read moreAlan Helps Animal Shelter
30th March 2017

Alan visited Northumberland based SHAK (Safe Homes And Kindness), a charity in Bedlington who look after dogs with behavioural or health issues that would otherwise have…
Read moreIn The Studio With The Hairy Bikers
8th March 2017

Alan met the Hairy Bikers (Dave Myers and Si King) when they appeared on his Night Owls show on Metro Radio.
Read moreIn The Studio With Earl
3rd March 2017

London based singer and BBC Introducing artist ‘Earl’ visited Alan at Metro Radio to talk about her new EP and tour.
Read moreRoss Noble Joins Alan In The Studio
20th February 2017

Ross joins Alan on his Night Owls show for more lunacy and references to the time he rang the show to report he’d released a crocodile…
Read moreAlan Tries Spanish Tapas With A Masterchef!
13th February 2017

Omar, Spain’s Masterchef popped into see Alan with some tasty treats in the run up to the opening of new restaurant ‘Tapas Revolution’.
Read moreAlan Presented With Platinum Disc
16th November 2016

To celebrate his 40 years on air, Alan is presented with a platinum disc.
Read more40 Year Anniversary On The Air!
12th November 2016

Today marks Alan’s 40th anniversary on the air. In 1976 he joined Metro Radio full time, previously having worked in the civil service. But it wasn’t the…
Read moreAlan Meets Spice Girl Mel C
12th September 2016

Mel C stopped by Metro Radio to perform her new single ‘Anymore’ on Alan’s show.
Read moreNight Owls Heads To Ireland
28th April 2016

Alan and the rest of the Night Owls team take the show on the road to Ireland. Here they visited spooky locations, carried out some…
Read moreAlan Meets Ellie Goulding
16th March 2016

Ellie stops off at Metro Radio to chat to Alan before hitting the Metro Radio Arena for her ‘Delirium’ Tour.
Read moreInducted Into National Radio Hall Of Fame
12th May 2014
Alan is inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame at a glittering ceremony hosted by Chris Evans at London’s Grosvenor Hotel. This was the first…
Read moreAlan Meets Auschwitz Survivor Zdenka Fantlova
13th January 2014

Alan has met and interviewed Zdenka Fantlova, one of the survivors of Auschwitz. Her story is told in two ‘Incredible Stories’: Zdenka Fantlova Interview and Survivors…
Read moreNight Owls Broadcasts From Western Isles
2nd May 2013

Alan brings the Night Owls team to the Western Isles of Scotland for a week of shows.
Read moreNight Owls Begins Simultaneous Broadcasting
8th October 2012

Alan’s show ‘Night Owls’ begins simultaneous broadcasting on TFM and it’s home station – Metro Radio.
Read moreLifetime Achievement Award
19th October 2010
In 2010 Alan was given a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Radio Acadamy.
Read moreAlan Wins New York Radio Award
9th June 2007

Alan wins a New York Radio Award for his show ‘Walking In The Footsteps Of Jack The Ripper’.
Read moreLucedio Ghost Hunt
31st October 2003

Alan hosts a Ghost Hunt from Italy. This image is from a desecrated Cathedral.
Read moreNight Owl Party
14th September 2002

One of the many Night Owl Parties. This one was held at the Mayfair in Newcastle. Singer Jayne Mackenzie and Alan duet ‘The Time Of My Life’.
Read moreAlan Signs For A Third Series Of ‘Scariest Places On Earth’
21st April 2002

Alan signs for a third series of 20th Century Fox’s ‘Scariest Places On Earth.
Read moreQualifies As An Exorcist
1st November 2000
Yes, it’s true. Alan is an exorcist! He carried out his first exorcism after gaining a Masters in Exoricsm and Spiritualism at Birkbeck, University of London in…
Read more20th Century Fox’s ‘Scariest Places On Earth’ Airs
23rd October 2000

Alan joins Linda Blair presenting ‘Scariest Places On Earth’ for 20th Century Fox. The show ran for 41 episodes over three series.
Read moreMessing With The Audience On ‘Robson’s People’
21st April 2000

On the set of Robson’s People for Tyne Tees Television in 2000.
Read moreRoss Noble Pranks Alan
29th February 2000

Comic Ross Noble gets 500 fans to call Alan and claim an alligator was on the loose in a Newcastle park. Ross, originally from Cramlington in…
Read more*Article* ‘Local Hero Heeds Final Whistle’
16th October 1998
The Journal reports on Newcastle United’s parting with Alan as their matchday announcer.
Read moreAlan Versus The Gladiators
5th September 1998

Alan’s celeb team take on TV’s ‘The Gladiators’ at Gateshead Stadium for charity.
Read more*Article* Alan Helps Celebrate Pennine Windows 21st Birthday
25th June 1998

Alan is the face of Pennine Windows and in this article he is helping them celebrate their 21st birthday.
Read moreRaising Cash For Charity
13th September 1997

Raising cash for charity at Gateshead Indoor Market in 1997.
Read more*Article* ‘Our Hero’
28th August 1997
The Sunday Sun tell how Alan has become the very first ‘Freeman of Benwell’.
Read moreCharity Football Match
14th June 1997

Alan scores 7 goals in a charity match, which finished 8-2. The opposition included athletes Steve Cram and Linford Christie!
Read more*Article* ‘Desperate Plea To Phone-In Host’
27th April 1997
Alan tells how a caller to his Night Owls show left her children with Alan at the Metro Radio Studio!
Read moreNight Owls Event
23rd November 1996

Alan hosts a Night Owls event at an unknown location in a beautiful flecked suit! Were you there?
Read moreAnnouncing Alan Shearer
30th July 1996

As host at St James’ Park back then, it fell to Alan to introduce Newcastle United’s new world record signing outside St. James’ Park. What was…
Read moreCharity Football Match
15th June 1996

Alan plays in another Charity Football match (approximate date)
Read moreNew Orleans Ghost Hunt
26th October 1995

Alan is pictured here with Sister Mimi Lansoux in 1995 when he took Night Owls to New Orleans for a ghost hunt.
Read moreAlan Presents College Cuisine for Tyne Tees TV
1st September 1995

One of several television series Alan has presented for Tyne Tees TV was College Cuisine. Here he is pictured with Henry Cooper and winner, Derek…
Read moreLord Mayor’s Parade
15th July 1995

Alan at the Lord Mayor’s Parade for charity in the mid 1990’s (approximate date and year).
Read moreRobson’s Choice Airs
7th April 1995

Alan is pictures here on the set of his latest Tyne Tees Television show, Robson’s Choice.
Read more*Article* ‘Drug Misery Of Gulf Frontline Nurses’
5th February 1995
The Sunday Sun reports on a campaign Alan lent his support to.
Read more*Article* ‘Stars On The Ball’
6th November 1994
Coverage of the ‘Nissan All Charity Football Match’, organised by Alan and held at Gateshead Stadium. Stars taking part included a very young Ant &…
Read more*Article* Ghost Chasing Night Owl
1st November 1994

A report on Alan’s ghost hunt in a haunted castle.
Read more*Article* See You At The Show
16th September 1994

Alan will appear at the annual Disability North Exhibition in 1994. (date approximate)
Read moreEldon Square Sponsor A Blade
16th September 1994

Newcastle’s Eldon Square Shopping Centre sponsor Alan! And here he is on their promotional literature!
Read more*Article* ‘Rape Call That Will Always Haunt Me’
28th August 1994
Alan tells the Sunday Sun about a harrowing call to his Night Owls show.
Read moreAmerican Football
20th August 1994

Alan raises more charity cash taking on American Footballers.
Read more*Article* Two-Way Radio Row
19th August 1994

An interesting article suggesting a well known DJ turned down a job at a rival station for fear of going up against Alan. (date approximate)
Read moreAlan Hosts Supergigs
17th July 1994

Alan hosts a series of supergigs at Gateshead International Stadium featuring Queen, Bruce Springsteen, Guns ‘n’ Roses and Bryan Adams (pictured).
Read moreLord Mayor’s Parade
16th July 1994

Alan dresses in fancy dress (as the Flashing Blade) for charity in the Lord Mayor’s Parade.
Read moreAwarded The MBE
10th June 1994

Alan is named in the Queens Honours list and awarded the MBE (Member of the British Order) for services to broadcasting.
Read more*Article* Alan Is Announced In The New Years Honours List
31st December 1993

The Evening Chronicle confirm Alan has been awarded an MBE in the Queen’s New Years Honours list.
Read more*Article* Alan Says Sorry
9th November 1993

The Evening Chronicle reports on Laura Johnson’s VIP visit to the Metro Radio studios with Alan, following her unfortunate accident at a recent roadshow.
Read more*Article* Video Nasty
5th November 1993

The Evening Chronicle tells how Laura Johnson was accidentally hit by a flying videotape during a Metro Radio Roadshow. The tape was being thrown into…
Read moreListener Photo
9th September 1993

Alan is pictured with a listener. Is this you? Let us know! (date approximate)
Read more*Article* Sick To Death Of Argument
14th August 1993

After comments made by Alan in one of his newspaper columns, readers have their say. (date approximate)
Read moreHippy Day Out!
14th August 1993

Alan enjoys a ‘Hippy Day Out’ with Denny Ferguson in 1993 (date approximate)
Read moreThe Day Alan Abseiled For Charity (In The Wrong Shoes)
3rd July 1993

Alan (in a fetching colourful legging and shoe combo) abseils down a building in Newcastle City centre. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* Robson Turns To Love
12th February 1993

Alan’s TV show ‘Robson’s People’ will have a theme all about love!
Read more*Article* Alan Takes Part In ITV’s Telethon
14th July 1992

Alan will be joining Michael Aspel to help host 28 hours of live television fundraising.
Read more*Article* ‘Compact Offers A Brighter Future’
1st July 1992
An article about the launch of ‘Compact’ at Washington School, where Alan hosted the Compact Roadshow.
Read more*Article* The Launch Of ‘Compact’
22nd June 1992
Promotional material from 1992, announcing Alan’s involvement with ‘Compact’.
Read more*Article* Alan Hits Page 3!
20th June 1992

Alan answers some quick fire questions. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* Dire Straits Review
14th June 1992

A review of the Dire Straits gig at St. James’ Park in Newcastle, where Alan warmed the crowd up and introduced the band.
Read more*Article* Robson’s People Is Magic
15th May 1992

Alan hosts a magic special of his TV show ‘Robson’s People’ featuring, amongst others, Geoffrey Durham – AKA The Great Suprendo! (date approximate)
Read moreBroken Blade
3rd May 1992

Alan hosts charity gig in Blyth with a broken arm. He broke it playing in goal at St. James’ Park! (date approximate)
Read more*Article* The Show Must Go On
29th April 1992

The Evening Chronicle tells how Alan played on during a charity football match, despite being injured.
Read more*Article* ‘Radio Horror Is A Hoax’
12th April 1992
Alan tells the Sunday Sun how it felt to find out the lady he had talked out of committing suicide live on air in 1990…
Read more*Article* Grisly Trails Sells Out
1st April 1992

Alan’s first book has already sold out of it’s first print run.
Read more*Article* Alan On Cravings
31st March 1992

Alan reflects on some of the weird cravings that have been revealed on Night Owls.
Read more*Article* Grisly Trails Review
27th March 1992

The NorthWestern Evening Mail reviews Alan’s first book – Grisly Trails and Ghostly Tales.
Read more‘Grisly Trails and Ghostly Tales’ Book Launch
20th March 1992

Alan’s first best seller ‘Grisly Trails and Ghostly Tales’ is launched at Newcastle Guildhall. Alan and Denny Ferguson at the Guildhall.
Read more*Article* The Rave From Beyond The Grave
19th March 1992

The Gateshead Post reports on the contents of Alan’s first book – ‘Grisly Trails and Ghostly Tales’.
Read more*Article* Personal Appearance – Grisly Trails
19th March 1992

An advert for a personal appearance at John Menzies in the MetroCentre, where Alan will be publicising the release of his first book – Grisly…
Read more*Article* My First Record
8th January 1992
Alan tells the Evening Chronicle about his first record, who manage to spell the name of the biggest band in the world wrong!
Read more*Article* Make This A Year To Care
5th January 1992
A readers letter to the Sunday Sun.
Read moreSpecial Sherlock Performance For The Blind And Deaf
2nd January 1992

A special performance of the hit pantomime is put on specifically for a blind and deaf audience.
Read more*Article* Wacky And Cuddly
21st December 1991
The Evening Chronicle tells how Alan likes to write his Christmas cards!
Read more*Article* You’ll Gan Hyem Happy
20th December 1991
A review of Sherlock Holmes & The Case Of The Christmas Curse.
Read more*Article* Review of The Christmas Curse
20th December 1991
The Evening Chronicle reviews Sherlock Holmes & The Case Of The Christmas Curse.
Read more*Article* Review of The Christmas Curse In ‘The Stage’
20th December 1991
Entertainment publication ‘The Stage’ reviews Sherlock Holmes & The Case Of The Christmas Curse.
Read moreSherlock Holmes & The Case Of The Christmas Curse Opens
17th December 1991

Alan’s third pantomime opens at the Newcastle Playhouse, running to January 25th 1992.
Read more*Article* Charity Cheque Presentation
3rd December 1991
Neighbourly News reports on a successful charity event, where Alan presents the cheque.
Read more*Flyer* Sherlock Holmes & The Christmas Curse
1st December 1991
Advert for Alan’s third Christmas panto.
Read more*Article* Christmas Curse Panto
24th November 1991
The Sunday Sun tell of Alan’s third panto outing.
Read more*Article* Searching For Success
24th November 1991
Alan talks to the Sunday Sun about his TV show ‘Robson’s People’.
Read more*Article* Lights Go On
22nd November 1991
The Evening Chronicle reports on the Christmas Lights switch-on, by Alan and Lindisfarne.
Read more*Article* Traders Stump Up
22nd November 1991
The Journal tell how the city’s traders stepped in to fund the Christmas lights in Newcastle when the council withdrew funding.
Read more*Article* Christmas Curse Panto Announcement
14th November 1991
The Northern Echo announces that Alan will appear in his third pantomime, this time writing, producing, acting and directing.
Read more*Article* Church Fayre
31st October 1991

Alan opens the St. Andrews Church Fayre in Ashington.
Read more*Article* Ready, Steady, Go!
9th October 1991

A short piece on Alan and his Night Owls. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* Quality Day For Reay
5th September 1991
Alan presents a quality certificate to Reay Electrical.
Read more*Article* He’s Too Sexy For His Show
25th August 1991
Alan record and releases parody record with fellow Metro DJs.
Read moreBerwick Gig
20th July 1991

Alan entertains the crowd at a gig in Berwick. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* JD Associates
29th April 1991
The Sunderland Echo reports on John Dabrowski, who has become Alan’s agent.
Read more*Article* The Entertainer Magazine
27th April 1991
Alan graces the cover of The Entertainer Magazine to mark his move into TV.
Read more*Article* Estate Cleanup
18th April 1991
The Evening Chronicle reports on a community clean up in Longbenton.
Read more*Article* Shop Opening
18th April 1991
News Post Leader tells of the new Rumbelows shop in Blyth, which Alan has officially opened.
Read more*Article* Robson Choice Cash Giveaway
14th April 1991
The Sunday Sun shows some more of the ‘Tenner’ competition winners getting their prizes from columnist Alan.
Read moreTV Show ‘Robson’s People’ Airs
12th April 1991

A brand new 12 part late night chat show hosted by Alan begins on Tyne Tees Television. It features people behind the news and local celebrities…
Read more*Article* Gotcha!
7th April 1991
The Sunday Sun shows some of the ‘Tenner’ competition winners getting their prizes from columnist Alan. non
Read more*Article* Northerners Back Major
2nd April 1991
The Evening Chronicle speaks to several well known Northerners following a speech by then Prime Minister, John Major.
Read more*Flyer* Roadshow
1st April 1991
A flyer for the Bank Holiday Bonanza in Benton.
Read more*Article* Are You Robson’s Choice?
31st March 1991
The Sunday Sun launches their ‘Tenner’ competition with columnist Alan.
Read more*Article* Tyne Tees Preview
30th March 1991
Details of the upcoming Tyne Tees schedule, which featured news of Robson’s People.
Read more*Article* Firm’s Sales Increase
28th March 1991
The Newspost Leader tells how a successful marketing campaign fronted by Alan has seen Pennine Windows’ sales rocket.
Read more*Article* Alan’s My Choice
10th March 1991
A reader defends Alan in the Sunday Sun.
Read more*Article* Good, Bad and Stinking
2nd March 1991
Alan talks about evocative smells to the Evening Chronicle.
Read more*Article* Just The Job
2nd February 1991
Alan tells the Evening Chronicle what he did before he started working in radio.
Read more*Article* Hangover Tips
26th December 1990
Alan tells the Evening Chronicle how he deals with New Years hangovers.
Read more*Article* Christmas Singles
16th December 1990
Alan vents his frustrations to the Evening Chronicle.
Read more*Article* School Art Competition Winners
12th December 1990
The Gateshead Herald & Post announces the winners of the Gateshead Indoor Market Schools Christmas Art Competition and Alan presents the prizes.
Read more*Flyer* Charity Football Match
9th December 1990

Alan lined up alongside other celebrities for the charity match at Gateshead Stadium, in aid of the Metro FM POP Fund. Steve Cram’s All Stars…
Read more*Article* Metro Radio Voted Top Company
7th December 1990
The Journal tell how Metro Radio has been voted the Company Of The Year in the Northern Business Awards.
Read more*Article* Safeway & Metro On The Road
24th November 1990
An article about the partnership between Safeway and Metro Radio.
Read more*Article* Tyneside Launch
18th November 1990
Alan compere’s the launch of a school based initiative.
Read moreFlashing Blades For Children In Need
16th November 1990

Alan takes some flashing blades on the BBC for their Children In Need Appeal.
Read more*Article* ‘I Was A Bully’
15th November 1990
Alan is guest speaker at an event in South Shields aimed at helping young people avoid perpetrating or becoming victims of crime.
Read more*Flyer* Roadshow
10th November 1990
A flyer advertising the launch of Eldon Leisure, where Alan’s Metro Radio Roadshow will be appearing.
Read more*Article* Charity Football Match
9th November 1990
The Evening Chronicle announces the upcoming charity match at Gateshead Stadium.
Read more*Article* Sparking A Wave Of Complaints?
5th November 1990
The Northern Echo questions Alan’s on-air appeal to his listeners to unite in sending fireworks into the sky in unison during his Night Owls show.
Read more*Article* Light On The Tyne
4th November 1990
A report from the Sunday Sun on a rather damp and cold fireworks display in Newcastle, which also talks about Alan’s attempt to get his listeners…
Read more*Article* Superquiz Winners Announced
10th October 1990
The popular quiz, hosted by Alan as part of the National Garden Festival in Gateshead has a winner.
Read moreAll Aboard!
13th September 1990

Alan advertises Pennine Windows, from the side of a bus! (Date approximate)
Read more*Article* Alan Visits Nudist Colony
12th August 1990
Alan joins the Sunday Sun as a columnist and tells of one visit where he was not so flash…
Read more*Article* All The Fun Of The Fair
13th July 1990

Master of Ceremonies, Awards Presenting and the Entertainment will all be provided by Alan at this fair! Are you in this picture? Can you tell…
Read more*Article* ‘DJ Stops Suicide Bid
3rd July 1990
The Daily Star tells how Alan talks a lady out of suicide live on the radio. This story developed further in April 1992 and it became…
Read more*Article* Remember The Good That Night Owls Do
29th June 1990
Alan has his say after recent letters in the Evening Chronicle, some of which were negative towards the Night Owls show he presents.
Read more*Article* Alan We Love You
25th June 1990
For several weeks the Evening Chronicle has printed letters from readers about Night Owls. While some were critical others (as these show) were far from that.
Read more*Article* Supermarket Opens
16th June 1990
Alan opens Safeway in Alnwick.
Read more*Article* What A Cheek!
11th June 1990
Another readers letter to the Evening Chronicle about the Robson Vs Wappat debate.
Read more*Article* The Voice Of The North
4th June 1990
A readers letter to the Evening Chronicle.
Read more*Article* Cheers And Jeers
26th May 1990
A newspaper critic has his say about the ‘Getting Personal’ TV show.
Read more*Article* Top Holiday Prize
1st May 1990
As part of the National Garden Festival, held in Gateshead in 1990, a new competition is launched.
Read moreAlan Assists The Police
13th April 1990

Alan lends his support to a Northumbria Police initiative. (date approximate)
Read more*Flyer* Roadshow In Aid of Pop Charity Appeal
7th April 1990
Alan takes his Metro Radio Roadshow to Sunderland as part of the Pop Charity Appeal fundraising.
Read moreTV Show ‘Getting Personal’ Airs
6th April 1990
Alan joins the panel of late night ‘agony aunt’ style phone in show on Tyne Tees Television, alongside Nina Miyscow. It ran for two series. (exact…
Read more*Article* What He Showed Me In The Bath…
16th March 1990
A reporter interviews Alan on one of those new fangled mobile phone thingys, while ‘the whiskery DJ’ was in the bath.
Read more*Article* Your Dead Wife’s Here
4th March 1990
A national newspaper picks up on one of Alan’s Night Owls callers.
Read more*Article* Listeners Speechless
2nd March 1990
The Northern Echo tells of a freak lightening bolt, which hit Alan’s studios during a broadcast.
Read more*Article* Charity Raffle Winners
8th February 1990
The Newcastle Times reports on two 14 year old schoolgirls, who have won a new car in a charity raffle.
Read more*Article* Doodle Dandy
2nd February 1990

An article in which Alan’s doodles are analysed by Peter Fairley. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* I’ll Shave My Moustache Off
1st January 1990
Alan talks New Years Resolutions with the Evening Chronicle.
Read morePanto ‘Revenge Of The Lambton Worm’ Opens
21st December 1989

After the runaway success of the original Lambton Worm the previous year, Alan treads the boards again in The Revenge Of The Lambton Worm.
Read more*Flyer* The Revenge Of The Lambton Worm
1st December 1989
After the phenomenal success of last years Lambton Worm pantomime, the same team announce another Christmas show.
Read more*Article* Star Columnist
19th August 1989

Alan joins the Daily Star as a columnist. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* Residents Association Office Opening
20th July 1989
Alan is star guest as a new residents association office is opened in Newcastle
Read more*Article* New Image For Hospice
26th June 1989
The Advertiser reports on St. Oswald’s Hospice’s new video, which Alan will present.
Read more*Article* Title of DJ’s Disc ‘ill advised’
25th May 1989
More fallout from the Alan’s single about Newcastle United. Here Metro Radio explain their decision.
Read more*Article* DJ’s Record Banned By Own Station
24th May 1989
The Mirror tells how Metro Radio have decided to ban Alan’s record about Newcastle United called ‘Sack The Board’.
Read more*Article* Revenge Of The Lambton Worm Announced
21st April 1989
The Evening Chronicle reveals the follow up to last years The Lambton Worm.
Read more*Article* The Lambton Worm To Open In Sunderland
5th April 1989
Panto at Easter? asks the Gateshead Courier.
Read more*Article* Night Rider Interview
1st April 1989
An interview from April 1989 with ‘Tempo’.
Read more*Flyer* Home Exhibition
24th February 1989
A flyer from the Home Exhibition Show.
Read more*Article* Lambton Worm Sets Record
1st February 1989
The Gateshead Courier tells how the Lambton Worm is now Britain’s longest running pantomime.
Read more*Article* The Lambton Worm Extended For 3rd Extra Week
22nd January 1989
The Sunday Sun tells how the Christmas show is set to extend it’s run further.
Read more*Article* Friday 13th January
20th January 1989
Alan recalls his unfortunate day.
Read more*Article* The Lambton Worm Extended For 2nd Extra Week
8th January 1989
Following its transfer from Gateshead Leisure Centre, The Lambton Worm is extended for a second extra week following a successful run at the Newcastle Playhouse.
Read more*Article* Guardian Review of Lambton Worm
19th December 1988
The Guardian reviews the Lambton Worm pantomime in Gateshead.
Read more*Article* A Backhanded Compliment!
16th December 1988

A listener’s rather tongue in cheek letter from 1988. (date approximate)
Read more*Programme* All Star Football Event
11th December 1988
Here’s the programme for Alan’s Charity Football Match.
Read morePanto ‘The Lambton Worm’ Opens
5th December 1988

Alan’s first foray into pantomime began in Gateshead with ‘The Lambton Worm’. The production would later set the record for the longest running pantomime, having…
Read moreRaising Money For ‘War On Want’
29th November 1988

Alan is pictured with Billy Fane, raising money for the charity ‘War On Want’.
Read more*Article* Silly Billy!
25th November 1988

Following the launch of The Lambton Worm, the Gateshead Post reveal the charity that will benefit from the profits of the show.
Read more*Article* War On The Worm
24th November 1988

An article from the Gateshead Post about the upcoming Lambton Worm pantomime.
Read more*Article* Lambton Worm Panto Announcement
24th November 1988
The Gateshead Post & Times reports of plans to stage a pantomime in Gateshead, starring Alan. The show would go onto be so successful it…
Read moreChildren In Need
18th November 1988

Alan and a host of local celebrities raise money for Children In Need.
Read more*Article* ‘Stars Rally In Fight Against World Poverty’
20th October 1988
Alan and Billy Fane hold a press conference to announce their pantomime, where all proceeds are set to go to charity.
Read more*Article* A Night In The Life
23rd September 1988

We’re not entirely sure which publication this is from, but in this piece we learn about a day in the life of The Flashing Blade!…
Read more*Article* Local Hero In The Wings
18th September 1988

An article asking why Alan hasn’t been snapped up for telly work. This of course was to change very soon. We can neither confirm or…
Read more*Article* Alan’s My Fantasy Man
17th September 1988

From September 1988, S A Foreman (gender unknown) drools over Alan!
Read more*Article* Alan Is President!
16th September 1988

Alan is named as President of the Tyneside Disc Jockey’s Association. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* Internal Memo – Listening Figures
26th August 1988

A rare internal memo, explaining to staff of Metro Radio how the latest listening figures are broken down.
Read more*Flyer* Roadshow
11th August 1988

A flyer for a roadshow in Washington, where attendees could win a holiday!
Read more*Article* Putting Stars Into Their Place
16th July 1988

Another of Alan’s newspaper columns. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* Alan’s New Column For The Washington Echo
18th June 1988

Alan launches his new column. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* Is Censorship The Answer?
18th June 1988

Another of Alan’s newspaper columns. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* Alan Judges A Bros Dancing Competition!
17th June 1988

As Bros were about to play Newcastle, Alan judges a Bros dancing completion. Did you take part? (date approximate)
Read more*Article* Bed Race Turns Heads!
4th June 1988

Alan takes part in the Gateshead Post’s charity appeal. (date approximate)
Read more*Articles* Radio Rivals Bat It Out
4th June 1988

Alan, along with other DJs from BBC Newcastle and Metro Radio play a charity cricket match. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* What A Nerve – Quiz Winner Announced
30th May 1988

John Brady wins the Metro Radio Quiz (and a holiday to Majorca).
Read more*Article* Most Popular Independant DJ
27th May 1988

Alan and fellow Metro Radio DJ Nicky Brown beat all other commercial and independent DJs in a national poll.
Read more*Article* The Listener Figures Are In
20th May 1988

Metro Radio registers the highest commercial reach in the UK mainland. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* Business And Enterprise Brochure
9th May 1988

Alan’s letter to Newcastle upon Tyne Polytechnic appears in their brochure for new businesses. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* Search For A Wise Night Owl
1st May 1988

An article announcing a megaquiz to find the Trivia Champion of the North East.
Read more*Article* Charity Match Kicks Off At Last
1st May 1988

Happy news from the Evening Chronicle about a charity event that had been postponed after a misunderstanding between Metro Radio and the organisers, which will…
Read more*Article* It Sticks In The Throat
16th April 1988

Alan responds to a listener’s criticism over a mix up with a charity event. Thankfully the event was able to go ahead after all in…
Read more*Article* Spirits Elude The Night Owl
15th April 1988

A piece about an interview conducted with a spiritualist by Alan. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* Alan’s Off His Trolley!
15th April 1988

Alan helps launch the KP Balloon Race. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* Alan Talks To The W.I
13th April 1988

Alan visits the Nedderton branch of the Women’s Institute. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* Flaming Mad!
9th April 1988

The Chronicle continues to tell the story of the mix up between the organiser of a charity event and Metro Radio. Thankfully all was resolved…
Read more*Article* Alan Helps Relaunch The Washington Echo
24th March 1988

Alan helps relaunch the Washington Echo.
Read more*Article* Internal Memo – Poll Of The Year 1987
25th December 1987

An internal Metro Radio memo detailing some of the winners in the annual poll. (date approximate)
Read moreNight Owls Party (With A Very Young Ross Noble)
18th December 1987

A then unknown Ross Noble (far left) joins Alan as a victim at an early Night Owls Party at the Newcastle Mayfair. Singing Auld Lang Syne at…
Read more*Article* All She Wants For Christmas Is Chicken Pox
17th December 1987

The Daily Mirror reports on a strange request, which Alan helps to fulfil.
Read more*Article* Washington Galleries
17th December 1987

An advertisement for Washington Galleries Christmas celebrations, featuring Alan.
Read more*Article* Hair Raising Search
24th November 1987

Alan’s in the running for the most outrageous hair style of 1987. (Amazingly he didn’t win!)
Read moreGuide Dogs For The Blind Event
19th September 1987

Alan hosts a charity gig to raise money for Guide Dogs For The Blind. (approximate date)
Read moreThe Bladettes!
22nd August 1987

Alan once had his own team of dancers, who appeared at live gigs with him. Here they are!
Read more*Article* Alan Joins St. Trinians
11th July 1987

Alan helps out at the Gateshead Post’s Charity Appeal. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* Share A Phobia
27th June 1987

Another of Alan’s newspaper columns. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* Alan Launches The Post
19th June 1987

Alan helps launch a brand new newspaper in Newcastle. Are you in the crowd behind him? (date approximate)
Read more*Article* Is Insurance A Con?
23rd May 1987

One of Alan’s regular newspaper columns. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* The Body Is Horrible
11th April 1987

Another of Alan’s newspaper columns. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* Alan’s First Day Shock
23rd March 1987

Alan tells the Evening Chronicle about his nightmare first day! (date approximate)
Read more*Article* The Celebrity Friends Of St. Oswald’s Hospice
3rd March 1987

Taken from a promotional brochure for the charity St. Oswald’s Hospice, who Alan has supported for many years. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* ‘DJ Gets 130 Off The Dole’
2nd November 1986
In a joint project with Manpower, Alan helped local people find work, as this article from the Sunday Sun explains.
Read morePromoting The MetroCentre
14th October 1986

Alan helps Sir John Hall to promote the MetroCentre in Gateshead, which when it opened was the largest shopping centre in Europe.
Read moreYoung Farmers Gig
13th September 1986

Alan hosts a two hour gig in the freezing cold on the back of a truck for the Young Famers. Alan says “Those Young Farmers!…
Read moreWearside Partnership Gig
13th September 1986

Alan hosts a gig for The Wearside Partnership.
Read more*Article* Martian Mania!
14th July 1986

The Shields Gazette reports on how a laser show hosted by Alan resulted in a mass panic that aliens had landed!
Read more*Article* Royal Ruling
11th July 1986

The Evening Chronicle reports on a bizarre court ruling that banned a Newcastle nightclub an extension to their licence for Alan to host a Royal…
Read more*Article* Interview With Gateshead Times
13th June 1986

Alan talks to the Gateshead Times about Night Owls. (Date approximate)
Read more*Article* Ready For The Big Off
11th April 1986

Alan joins other celebrities to launch ‘Race Against Time’, a charity running event. (date approximate)
Read more*Flyer* Roadshow Holiday Special
19th January 1986

Alan brings his roadshow to town to help promote Dawson & Sanderson Holidays.
Read more*Article* Alan’s Up And Down Year
21st December 1985

You couldn’t make up Alan’s 1985, and neither would you want to! (date approximate)
Read moreThe Day Alan Abseiled For Charity
16th November 1985

Alan jumps of the Tyne Bridge for charity!
Read more*Article* On Air Family
11th October 1985

An article in the Gateshead Post about Alan and the Night Owls show. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* Alan’s Bevy Of Beauties
1st October 1985

The Sunderland Echo reports on the winners the Annual Miss Julies Competition.
Read moreCharity Cricket Match
13th July 1985

Alan plays cricket in a charity match to help a child who has been run over in Murton. Alan says “I lasted seconds (nothing new…
Read moreNew Sponsors Car
22nd June 1985

In around 1985 Les Allen Car Sales Ltd sponsored Alan’s wheels. Here he is picking up his brand new Honda!
Read more*Article* On The Track Of Fame
25th May 1985

The Evening Chronicle reports on a competition searching for new music talent, which Alan is involved in promoting and judging.
Read moreAlan Wins Top Independant DJ
18th May 1985

Alan wins Top Independant Radio DJ, beating off competition from Kenny Everett, Steve Wright and Terry Wogan. (date approximate)
Read more*Article* Alan The Flashing Blade
25th August 1984

That time when Alan was caught with his pants down…
Read more*Article* Happy Birthday Metro Radio*
20th July 1984

Alan (and his long locks!) features in a specially produced newspaper to celebrate Metro Radio’s tenth anniversary.
Read moreNew Sponsors Car
6th June 1984

Alan picks up his new wheels from Les Allen Car Sales. Apparently a lady left her bra on the windscreen!
Read moreAlan’s On The Buses
25th March 1983

An illustration we found, which we can’t put an exact date on!
Read moreGig For Children With Disabilities
7th October 1982

Alan hosts a gig in Washington for disabled children.
Read moreHot ‘n’ Heavy Gig
20th September 1980

Alan live at the Sunderland Mayfair at a Hot ‘n’ Heavy gig.
Read moreAlan Breaks The World Kissing Record!
18th July 1980

Alan breaks the World Kissing Record. He’s pictured here in training by sucking porridge through a straw! One of the queues of ‘kissing volunteers’ at Longbenton…
Read moreAlan Robson’s Night Owls Begins
1st June 1980

Alan Robson’s Night Owls, in what is still it’s current format, was launched. Now famous for it’s mix of banter, bizarre callers, quizzes, pranks, stories of…
Read moreOld School Alan!
24th May 1980

Alan entertains the crowd in Durham in this photo throwback.
Read moreHot ‘n’ Heavy Soaking!
17th November 1979

Alan soaks one of his dancers at a Hot ‘n’ Heavy gig in Newcastle.
Read moreHot ‘n’ Heavy Gig
15th September 1979

Alan signs autographs at a Hot ‘n’ Heavy gig in 1979. (approximate date)
Read moreHot ‘n’ Heavy Gig
11th August 1979

A Hot ‘n’ Heavy gig around 1979 (date approximate) with Brian Ross of ‘Blitzkrieg/Satan’.
Read moreHot ‘n’ Heavy Gig
8th April 1978

Alan hosts another Hot ‘n’ Heavy gig and poses with two fans. Not sure what the roadie is describing behind though! Is this you in…
Read moreQueen’s Jubilee Concert
7th June 1977

Alan hosts a concert at the Newcastle Mayfair to celebrate the Queen’s Silver Jubilee.
Read moreAlan Hosts Crazy Night Owls
1st June 1977
In 1977, having hosted regular shows ‘Bridges’ and ‘The Hot n Heavy Express Show’ on Metro Radio, Alan takes over the Friday night phone in…
Read moreLive Rock Gig
1st April 1977

In 1977 Alan appears at Newcastle Guildhall at a live rock gig. At this time he was also hosting the Hot ‘n’ Heavy Express Show on Metro…
Read moreFirst Radio Broadcast (sort of!)
12th November 1976
Alan’s first DJ job was on a rock show called ‘Bridges’ for Metro Radio. His voice had been heard on air before though. In his…
Read moreReel To Reel Mixing
10th September 1976

Pictured here, back in the day, Alan’s mixing his tunes with a reel to reel machine.
Read moreFrendz Mobile Disco
16th August 1973

Alan takes to the decks in this early photo from his pre-Metro Radio days, when he was available for weddings, christenings and bar mitzvahs!
Read moreFamily Photo
13th July 1968

A cheeky looking Alan (left) at his sister’s wedding in 1968. (approximate date)
Read moreFamily Photo
1st July 1963

A young Alan (left) plays outside his childhood home in Hugh Gardens in Benwell, with his mate Specky Les.
Read moreBorn
1st October 1955
Alan is born in Benwell in the West End of Newcastle upon Tyne.
Read more