Leaders from Sunderland and Newcastle city councils have joined forces to urge supporters to enjoy Sunday’s Wear–Tyne derby responsibly.
Sunderland AFC and Newcastle United will meet in Premier League action for the first time in almost a decade on Sunday 14 December.
The two sides go into the league fixture separated by just a point in the table, with plenty at stake alongside derby-day bragging rights.
Following a meeting of the North East Combined Authority’s (NECA) cabinet, the leaders of the two respective authorities donned their team’s colours in a show of friendly rivalry and regional unity before the big match.
It’s the second time in as many weeks that the two leaders have put football rivalries aside to join forces. A fortnight ago the two councillors welcomed the North East’s prominent position in the UK’s bid to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2035, with both Sunderland and Newcastle included as potential host cities.
Councillor Karen Kilgour, Leader of Newcastle City Council and a lifelong Newcastle United season ticket holder, said: “The Wear-Tyne derby is of course a huge rivalry which means so much to both sets of fans, who are both incredibly passionate in support of their teams, and never more so than on derby day.
“But there is far more that unites our two cities and our region than divides us, and we’re just asking supporters of all stripes to enjoy the day sensibly and responsibly.
“Of course I’m desperate to see an away win, but the key thing is both sets of fans get to and from the match, or enjoy it from wherever they’re watching, safely and securely. With the measures partners have in place I’m sure that’ll be the case on Sunday.”
Northumbria Police, the two city councils, Nexus, British Transport Police, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, and the North East Ambulance Service have all been working together on delivering safe arrangements around the match.
Fans are being urged to keep up to date with information from their respective clubs ahead of Sunday.
Councillor Michael Mordey, Leader of Sunderland City Council, is an SAFC regular whose first job after leaving school was as a waiter in the Banqueting Suite (now Montgomery Suite) at the Stadium of Light.
He said:
“We’re all excited to welcome the Premier League Wear-Tyne derby back to Sunderland and we’re all committed to making it an enjoyable occasion for everyone.
“Both councils have been working closely with partners across the region on ensuring this is a day where everyone at the Stadium of Light and across both cities enjoys the match safely and has a great experience.
“If you’re attending, please plan your travel in advance, allow extra time for any checks, and respect guidance you are given by emergency services and stewards. All these measures are in place to help keep everyone safe.”
Regional agencies involved in preparations for the match have issued advice to supporters ahead of the weekend, including Metro travel advice at: Wear-Tyne derby day travel advice
