Fans urged to play their part to make sure everyone is safe on derby day

Police are urging fans to "play their part" in ensuring the first Wear Tyne league derby in nearly a decade is trouble free.

- by Neil Fatkin

Sunderland at the Stadium of Light before the Emirates FA Cup Third Round match against Newcastle United. Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images.

(Michael Regan/Getty Images)

The Black Cats and the Magpies last met in the Premier League in 2016, but Sunday will see the return of one of British football's biggest rivalries.

A spokesperson for Northumbria Police said: "Ever since the fixture was announced, extensive discussions have been held with all parties, and planning has been ongoing to facilitate the safe delivery of the game.

"The wider policing operation will be supported by partners at Nexus, British Transport Police, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, and the North East Ambulance Service - as well as both football clubs.

"While a large proportion of away fans are being transported via coach to the Stadium of Light, the remainder will be able to make their own way to the match."

To help ensure the safety of both sets of fans and the wider public, both clubs, the police, and transport providers have agreed some minor changes to the Metro system before the game.

Metros travelling southbound towards the stadium will not stop at Stadium of Light station and those travelling northbound, from South Hylton, will not stop at St Peter's.

After the game, home fans wanting to use the Metro are being asked to head to the Stadium of Light station as St Peter’s will not be accessible at this time.