Northumbria's PCC urges police and club's to "work through" issues
Vera Baird QC, Police and Crime Commissioner for Northumbria, has urged the police to "work through" any issues with Newcastle United and Sunderland ahead of next month's Tyne-Wear derby.
The commissioner said:
“The safety of fans, residents and visitors to the city is paramount and Northumbria Police have a duty to ensure public safety at all times, that is why the police welcomed the proposal by Sunderland AFC to provide a safe way of travelling to Newcastle by using coaches provided by the club. I am pleased that this offer remains by the club, however, fans can travel how they wish to St James Park.
It is well known that the police have argued for an earlier kick off and I am pleased that all parties have agreed to this to protect public safety.
I am now urging all parties to sit down and work through any outstanding issues”
The Premier League clash is scheduled to kick off at 12:45pm on Saturday 1 February.
More top news
VIDEO: Easter Sunday's forecast for the North East
Cloudy at first on Bank Holiday Monday, and slow to brighten. A much slower day than Easter Sunday. Best sun in the evening.
EASTER SUNDAY forecast for the rest of the Bank Holiday
So, generally turning out dry and bright across the Tyne Tees region on Easter Sunday.
Bishop of Durham: "There is much fear"
The Right Revd Paul Butler, Bishop of Durham led his first Easter service, in which he spoke of fear and what causes it.