Police Advice For Benfica

By Dan King - Newcastle United Club Reporter

Northumbria Police has issued advice to Newcastle United supporters ahead of next week's Europa League tie at Benfica.

Around 3,000 fans are expected to travel to the game at the Estádio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica in Lisbon, Portugal, on Thursday, 4th April, and officers are reminding supporters to stay safe while abroad.

Northumbria Police Chief Inspector Sarah Pitt said: "We want fans travelling to the game to enjoy the trip but to do so safely.

"Supporters should make sure that while over in Portugal they carry their passports with them at all times and that they keep them, and other valuables such as mobile phones, wallets and cameras, safe - especially when on public transport or in busy areas.

"Stewards and police will be searching supporters at the stadium so fans should arrive in good time. No alcohol, sharp objects, fireworks or flares, bottles or cans, drums or video cameras will be allowed to in the stadium, and flags are allowed but must not be on poles over a metre long.

"If drinking while over there then do so responsibly as the authorities have the right to breathalyse on entry to the stadium and test against limits laid down in Portuguese law. Anyone testing over the limit can be refused entry.

"We want all supporters to have a safe and enjoyable experience and want to see everyone leaving Newcastle for the Benfica game get home safely afterwards."

For more travel and safety information supporters can visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.

Newcastle United are advising supporters not to travel to the game without a ticket and reminding fans that tickets will remain on general sale at the Box Office at St James' Park on a collection only basis until 5pm on Monday, 1st April (subject to availability). Supporters must provide a completed travel document before tickets will be issued.