Northumbria Police is asking Sunderland and Newcastle fans to help them make the upcoming derby match a success.
The match - which is being held at 1:30pm on Sunday, October 21 - will see a capacity crowd at the Stadium of Light and Northumbria Police are urging football fans to help them make the occasion a successful and safe day.
There will be extra police officers on duty for the match and they will be based at key points around Sunderland and Newcastle before, during, and after the game.
They are there to help supporters on match day and to ensure the safety of everyone attending.
Roads in Sunderland city centre are expected to be extremely busy on derby day and Newcastle fans are being advised to plan their travel arrangements for the match in advance - either by Metro, train or on the official club supporters' buses.
Roads in and around Sheepfolds - near to St Peter’s Metro station - will be closed on derby day.
One major change to this year’s derby is that the location of away fans at the Stadium of Light has changed. They are now seated in the upper tier of the north stand.
Newcastle fans are being asked to work with police and stewards and wait in the stadium for a short while after the final whistle.
This will allow police to ensure there is a safe path back to the coaches and Metro trains for fans when they leave the stadium.
The holdback will be kept to a minimum amount of time and is in place for everyone's safety and Newcastle fans will have access to bars, refreshments and toilets while they are waiting.
Officers will be using security barriers, used at previous derby matches, to help guide the away supporters safely from the ground after the match.
Operations Commander Chief Superintendent Steve Neill said: ”The majority of supporters on derby day are there to enjoy the game and soak up the occasion that is the Wear-Tyne derby.
"We have policed many derby games in the past, we know they are passionate occasions for both sets of supporters and on the whole fans have behaved well at previous games.
"We are aware there are a minority who are intent on causing problems and our message to those people is that trouble will not be tolerated and anyone who puts the safety of supporters at risk on the day will be dealt with swiftly and firmly.
"Our role is to help supporters enjoy their day and ensure that the match passes safely for everyone attending.
"We are prepared for every eventuality and I'd ask that all supporters respect the occasion, their clubs, other supporters, police and club staff - we are all working together to make sure the day is a success and that all supporters get home safely on Sunday evening."
