A Message From Northumbria Police

Northumbria Police have issued the following travel information ahead of Sunday's eagerly-anticipated Tyne-Wear derby, to make sure fans reach the Stadium of Light in time for kick-off:

There are a number of ways that supporters can get to the match on Sunday (25th October) but fans should plan their journeys in advance and give themselves extra time to reach the stadium.

Newcastle United are running supporters' coaches from St. James' Park direct to the Stadium of Light, which is the recommended method of transport. These coaches are the quickest method of getting to and from the game and supporters are being urged to make use of the service.

A return ticket on the supporters' coaches costs £4, with all funds raised going to charity. Fans can book through the club's ticket office or via their website - www.nufc.co.uk.

Northern Rail will also be providing a direct train service from Newcastle Central Station to St. Peter's specifically for supporters travelling to the match - this will leave at 10.56am.

There will be direct Metro services for Newcastle supporters on matchday. These services will only stop at Central Station and St. Peter's stations and will leave at 10.39am and 10.46am.

For the return journey there are two Metros running direct from St. Peter's station to Central Station. These will be at 2.37pm and 2.34pm.

Operations commander chief superintendent Steve Neill said: "This is a fantastic occasion between our region's two biggest football clubs and we are proud to be a part of it.

"As with any major event in the North-East, there will be a number of things for fans to consider when deciding how to get to the game.

"Our best advice to those lucky enough to get a ticket would be to plan ahead and give yourself extra time as it will be a busy Sunday.

"The coaches are the quickest way to get to and from the game. There are direct Metro and train services on the day but these will be busy.

"Fans told us that direct trains from Newcastle to Sunderland were something they would like to retain, so this will be available for the coming derby.

"Northumbria and British Transport Police officers will be based at Central Station and will not be allowing people who are drunk or are causing trouble to get onto the trains.

"We would also remind fans that it is an offence to attempt to enter the stadium whilst being under the influence of alcohol."

People driving to and from the game should be aware of a number of ongoing roadworks between Sunderland and Newcastle that will primarily affect those driving northbound following the game.

This includes a lane closure of the westbound carriageway of Wessington Way (A1231), which is expected to cause a lot of disruption and should be avoided if travelling towards Newcastle.

Sat navs will direct traffic down this road but motorists should instead consider using Washington Road, Chester Road (A183) or Durham Road (A690).

One lane westbound on the Felling Bypass (A184) will also be closed between St. James Road and Albany Road which may cause disruption for those travelling back to Newcastle after the game.

Chief superintendent Neill added: "We are fully aware that there are a number of roadworks and so would advise supporters to take advantage of the public transport services that have been provided.

"The supporters coaches will be the best way to get to the stadium for those travelling from Newcastle. The routes they take to and from the game have been changed in light of the roadworks and will be the quickest way of getting to the match.

"We would ask you to remain patient when making your way to and from the game. Our officers will be on patrol across the region and will be more than happy to speak to you if you have any concerns."

For more information on travel visit www.nexus.org.uk or www.northernrail.org.