Fans warned over Tyne-Wear derby travel disruption
PAFootball fans have been warned about engineering works and a limited service on trains ahead of Sunday's Tyne and Wear derby.
Newcastle play Sunderland at St James' Park in Newcastle at 12:00 GMT, which will be the first time the two sides have faced each other in Newcastle since 2016.
Northumbria Police urged Sunderland fans travelling by train to get to Newcastle Central Station by 10:15 so they could be escorted by the force to the stadium.
Ch Supt Mark Hall said: "Our role – and that of our wider partners – is to help ensure that all those in attendance are able to enjoy the experience safely and disruption for other members of the public is kept to a minimum."
The force said Sunderland fans who arrived after 10:15 at Newcastle Central Station would have to wait until officers were able to organise a second escort to the stadium.
It said that meant there was a risk fans would miss the 12:00 kick-off.
Hall said the force acknowledged most supporters on both sides would be law-abiding, but it would have "zero tolerance" for anyone causing trouble.
He also said there would be an increased police presence in the city.
'Very busy'
In terms of public transport, both Tyne and Wear operator Nexus and rail services will be operating a Sunday timetable.
Trains from Durham and Darlington will not be running due to engineering works but a limited rail replacement service will be in place.
Nexus operations director Kevin Storey said public transport on the day would be "very busy" and urged the public to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys.
Road closures will also be force around Newcastle Central Station, St James Boulevard and Barrack Road.
