Only been a part-time resident of Newcastle for a couple of years, but what strikes you is what a small place it is, both in terms of population and geography. Newcastle's population is about 300,000, with about 500,000 more in Gateshead (in total thats about a third of Greater Manchester). St James Park is bang in the City Centre only 1 or 2 miles from all the major residential areas, none of which could be described as 'separate' from the City. I still think its fair to say that whereas Alty, Northwich, Macc, Stalybridge, Hyde etc have managed to retain some indiviudual identity, clubs like Blue Star aren't seen as representing any particular area and because of Newcastle United's geographical proximity to most people in the City, the Toon ARE the local club. If Alty was Gorse Hill how many of us wouldn't follow United?
As regards no-one watches non league teams, well the 2 Conf North teams averages this season are Gateshead (680) and Blyth (563). Not great, but remind me how many turned up for our game against Eastbourne when United were on the telly?