Only days now until the Newcastle United v Sunderland derby match.
A 12 noon kick-off on Sunday at St James’ Park.
Newcastle City Council have now on Tuesday released an official statement ahead of the game.
It will be the first Newcastle United v Sunderland derby match on Tyneside in a decade.
That last derby match at St James’ Park coming at the end of the 2015/16 season.
The Newcastle City Council statement detailing:
‘We can confirm for the safety of all that a police-supported escort to St James’ Park for Sunderland supporters will depart Newcastle Central Station at 10.15am. This will mirror the escort seen at the reverse fixture in Sunderland in December last year, and is expected to be utilised by the vast majority of away fans. Those who arrive later face having to wait at the station until officers are able to facilitate a second escort, which given the time needed for the journey and the required safety and ticketing checks unfortunately poses a risk of them not being in their seats in time for the 12pm kick-off. Sunderland fans are therefore urged to do their utmost to arrive into Central Station ahead of the 10.15am start time. Once inside the station, Sunderland supporters will be directed by officers and partners to the start location where they can gather ahead of departure. The provision for an escort from the station will not affect Sunderland fans who have already secured coach travel tickets which will arrive at and depart from St James’ Park.’
The official statement going on to say: ‘Fans who usually travel from Durham or Darlington stations are reminded that, due to engineering work, there are no trains to or from these stations towards Newcastle. A limited rail replacement service will be in operation, with fans encouraged to travel via alternative routes where possible. Fans and other members of the public planning to drive into Newcastle city centre to attend the match should be aware of road closures which could affect their travel times. These closures will be focussed around Central Station, St James Boulevard and Barrack Road to facilitate the safe arrival of Sunderland fans via coach or the escort into St James Park. On the day, there will be a much larger police presence around the ground than usual, and to further help accommodate the safe arrival and departure of both sets of fans, cordons will be in place. ’
Excitement
Chief Superintendent Mark Hall, of Northumbria Police, said: “We are aware of and appreciate the widespread excitement for the upcoming game between Newcastle United and Sunderland at St James’ Park on Sunday. The overwhelming majority of supporters of both clubs will follow the advice being shared by ourselves and partners, and will be going to the match to enjoy the occasion. However, we want to make it clear that there will be zero tolerance for anyone who is intent on using the game as an excuse to cause trouble. Anyone found responsible will subsequently face robust action, including criminal prosecution and being handed a football banning order while further action could be taken by the respective clubs. We will also have additional officers in both city centres in addition to the increased police presence at the ground.’
Leader of Newcastle City Council, Cllr Karen Kilgour:
“Newcastle is always busy on a Sunday, but this Sunday will be even busier. Many coming in will be shopping and enjoying our leisure and culture attractions – not just football. Newcastle is a city famed for its warm, friendly atmosphere and we want everyone including the Sunderland fans to feel safe and welcome. That’s why we’ve been working with Sunderland and other partners in planning this proud occasion. Quite rightly, we want this to be a hard-fought game of football but after the final whistle for the generous North East spirit to prevail among both sets of supporters – many of whom live and work among each other. As a life-long fan, and season ticket holder who will be singing my heart out on Sunday, I know only too well what this match means to every Newcastle United supporter. I want a Newcastle win at the weekend, and I want bragging rights for our city, but let’s make sure we keep the rivalries on the pitch.”
Leader of Sunderland City Council, Councillor Michael Mordey:
“As we always do, we’re all looking forward to this Tyne–Wear derby, and hopefully another 3-points for the Black Cats, but we’re all equally committed to making sure the day is enjoyable, welcoming, and safe for everyone taking part – whether you’re attending, watching in the city centres, or supporting from home. Both councils have been working closely with partners across the region, including transport providers, emergency services, and event organisers, to ensure everything runs smoothly. Our shared priorities are to see a positive and safe experience for all fans, and to make this a memorable day for all the right reasons.”
Chief Inspector Pete Kooper, British Transport Police:
“We’re working closely with Northumbria Police, rail industry and local authority partners to support the safe movement of supporters travelling to and from Newcastle for Sunday’s game. We know this fixture is hugely anticipated and that many supporters will be travelling by train or Metro on the day. With both networks operating a Sunday timetable and services expected to be extremely busy, especially at Newcastle Central station, we strongly encourage fans to plan their journeys in advance, be patient and respectful towards rail staff and allow plenty of extra time. Officers will be deployed across the rail network and at key stations to assist passengers and help ensure everyone can travel safely. We know the vast majority of attendees will do exactly that but anyone intent on using the occasion for crime or disorder on the network can expect to find themselves dealt with robustly. We would ask supporters to follow the advice of railway staff and police, and report any concerns to us by texting 61016 or by speaking to an officer.”