Tyne-Wear Derby Fans Advised of Metro Changes and Safety Measures
Fans attending Sunday’s Tyne-Wear derby between Sunderland and Newcastle United are being advised of temporary changes to the Metro system as part of measures to ensure safety and smooth travel.
Between 10:00 and 14:00, southbound Metro trains heading towards the Stadium of Light will not stop at the station, while northbound services from South Hylton will not call at St. Peter’s Station. After the match, home supporters should use Stadium of Light station to leave the grounds, as St. Peter’s will remain closed at that time.
To further support safe travel, police cordons will be in place and a larger-than-usual police presence will be deployed around the stadium and in both city centres. Fans are urged to follow guidance issued by their clubs and transport providers.
Assistant Chief Constable Helena Barron of Northumbria Police said:
“There is understandably widespread excitement for the upcoming game between Sunderland and Newcastle at the Stadium of Light on Sunday. Football fans in the North East are well known for being amongst the most passionate in the country and this fixture is much-anticipated by supporters of both clubs. Our role, and that of our wider partners is to help ensure those attending the game can do so safely and that disruption for other members of the public is kept to a minimum. We would therefore ask all fans to work with us to help ensure the match goes ahead without incident. We know the overwhelming majority of supporters will follow the advice being shared by ourselves and their respective clubs and will be going to the match to enjoy the occasion. However, we want to make it clear to anyone who is intent on using the game as an excuse to cause trouble that this will not be tolerated. Anyone found responsible will subsequently face tough action, including criminal prosecution and being handed a football banning order. As well as the increased police presence at the ground, we will also have additional officers in both city centres. Any disorder will be clamped down upon and those involved can expect to be arrested. Ultimately, we want to ensure all supporters can have a safe and enjoyable time – and everyone can play their part in achieving that result.”
Chief Inspector Pete Kooper of British Transport Police added:
"We're incredibly excited to see a return of the Tyne-Wear derby with fans after so many years without this historic fixture. While I'm sure the vast majority of fans will be looking to simply enjoy the game and the atmosphere, we'll react emphatically to anyone who uses the opportunity to engage in violence or criminality. We urge everyone travelling to or from the game to report any concerns they have to us by texting 61016 or by calling 999 in an emergency. Violence and antisocial behaviour will not be tolerated, and we are working closely with our partners to ensure that everyone can enjoy the game without interference or disruption."
Kevin Storey, Operations Director at Nexus, said:
“The Tyne and Wear Metro will have a significant role to play in helping supporters get to and from the derby game at the Stadium of Light on Sunday. We have worked closely with Northumbria Police and our other partners on the transport plans for the match so that all our customers can have a safe and enjoyable day. We are looking forward to supporting the event and would ask that all supporters follow the travel advice set down by the police, Nexus, and by both football clubs. This will help to ensure that everything runs smoothly, and that the event stays trouble free.”
Supporters are encouraged to plan their journeys in advance, follow all guidance, and report any issues promptly to ensure a safe and smooth experience for everyone attending the fixture.
Image: Nexus