He was on the books of Northern League club Gretna before signing for Sheffield United of the Second Division in 1984. He made five league appearances for the club in the 1984-1985 season, and another four the following season for Third Division club Doncaster Rovers, whom he joined on loan as injury cover. After leaving United he returned to the Northern League, first with Newcastle Blue Star and later with North Shields.
Office the pitch Peattie developed a career in sports education.
He became Head of Sport at the City of Sunderland College and a member of staff of Sunderland A.F.C."s Academy.