It just seemed like a normal morning in the Spen Valley.

But many of those who were up with the larks in Cleckheaton seemed to be speaking in an unfamiliar accent.

With the town centre busier than usual for a Saturday morning, and the shops and pubs doing a roaring trade, there was clearly something a bit unusual.

The popular Facebook page, Cleckheaton Matters, was one of the places where people wanted to know why so many folk from Newcastle had descended on the town.

After a certain amount of pondering, one poster came up with a credible reason for the influx from the north-east.

“On their way to Rochdale for the football,” one Facebook poster commented.

And indeed they were. It seems that Cleckheaton was pinpointed by fans of Newcastle United as an ideal place to stop off en-route to Lancashire for their FA cup third round tie.

After a dominant first half display, in which they could have claimed at least a three goal lead, the Magpies had to make do with a 1-1 draw and a replay at St James’ Park.

And who knows if Rochdale fans heading to the replay will make their presence known to the same extent in Clecky.

The debate was sparked when one Facebook user asked: “Anyone know why Wetherspoons is full of Geordies off their heads?”

In response, someone inquired: “Was Neville, Bomber, Ozz, Barry and Wayne there?”

Another poster replied: “Yep, and Ant was driving.”