Initially the club's kit man, he progressed in 2006 to the role of performance analyst, working closely with the players and coaching team with cutting edge video and analytical technology to aid the team's performance.

In 2010 John was promoted full-time to team management duties, ensuring the smooth running of the club's rugby operation and providing vital organisational and rugby knowhow.

John has a degree in actuarial maths after studying in Edinburgh, and has been involved with the Falcons since a very young age - initially operating the score board at Kingston Park as a child.

His dad Malcolm is one of the club's famous names, having twice skippered Gosforth - as it was known then - to victory in the Twickenham final of the John Player Cup.