Text entered

Police step up patrols for Tyne-Wear derby

Northumbria Police

11 July 2007


NORTHUMBRIA Police is warning football fans it won't tolerate any violent behaviour at this weekend's Tyne-Wear derby.
Extra officers will be on patrol around the Stadium of Light to deal with any incidents and anyone who is arrested could find themselves with a criminal record and banned from future football matches.
Police are also reminding Newcastle fans travelling to the Stadium of Light that coaches are available from St James' Park to take them to Sunderland.
Chief Superintendent Neil Mackay, head of the force's operations department, said: "We want both sets of fans to enjoy the game. For the small minority who are intent on causing trouble or being violent my advice is to think again or stay away, otherwise face being arrested and banned from future games.
"The safety of fans is paramount and we'll be making sure there is no disruption around the stadium before and after the game and everyone enters and leaves safely.
"As a precaution we will be delaying the departure of Newcastle fans within the Stadium of Light while Sunderland fans leave. Newcastle fans will be allowed out of the stadium and onto the coaches waiting to take them back to St James' Park once all Sunderland fans have cleared the area."