Designed with pride in our city

The University of Sunderland and Sunderland Football Club celebrated their new partnership with a matchday programme specially designed by a Sunderland student, reflecting the past, present and future of the club and city.

Dan Webster, 20, is in the final year of his Graphic Design degree at the University. He put his studies to stunning effect with the design of the programme for the recent Sunderland v Nottingham Forest match.

“I’m from Southampton, but Sunderland definitely has a special place in my heart, especially after having been given this opportunity,” Dan said.

“Seeing my design on the programme is something I don't think I'll ever forget.”

Dan’s design depicts some of the key thing ‘Made in Sunderland’; from ships to Roker lighthouse, cars at the Nissan plant, the Northern Spire Bridge, and of course the Stadium of Light.

“I was inspired to highlight what makes Sunderland truly iconic and special,” Dan said.

“I chose things and places that make the city really stand out. I hope a lot of fans will have their own memories about these and it will help build a sense of pride for the city.”

After he graduates this summer Dan hopes to pursue a career as a designer in the sport design industry.

Mark Rogerson, Lecturer in Design at the University of Sunderland, said: "Working with Sunderland Football Club is an absolutely brilliant opportunity, it gives students a live brief to create a real pieces of design that will go out into the world. The audience isn't just lecturers or other students; it's the people of Sunderland.

"It has given Dan a real chance to show what he can do, what the University can do, and to show the pride we have in Sunderland Football Club and its importance to the city."

Made in Sunderland (20-26 April) was a week-long celebration of the stories, people, businesses and culture that make our city great.

For more information on studying Graphic Design at the University of Sunderland, click here.