New kit launch event

Sunderland's new Diadora home kit will go on sale at 12:01am on Saturday 7th August 2004.

The Stadium of Light store will open its doors just after midnight, giving supporters the opportunity to be the first to get their hands on the new season kit. Entertainment will be laid on for eager fans queuing outside the store - the Metro Radio Roadshow, hosted by match commentator Simon Crabtree, will be in attendance and supporters can try out their football skills with target practices, speed cages and an inflatable 5-a-side football pitch.

SAFC Marketing Director Jim Slater said: "We are extremely pleased with the level of pre-order sales in advance of the launch of our new home kit.

"Mick McCarthy and the players are very impressed with the quality and feel of the kit and the feedback from supporters has been overwhelmingly positive.

"You can really sense the momentum building this week, with hundreds of fans contacting us each day on our mail order hotline (0191 5515030), in official SAFC stores and via safc.com - and are looking forward to a great launch weekend."

Jim also urged Black Cats fans to purchase their kit from the Clubs own retail stores: "Clearly, it is better for the club if supporters purchase the new kit direct from SAFC, as all profits go straight back to the club to help our promotion push, as opposed to an ordinary retail chain."

The Stadium of Light Sports Bar will be open from 4pm on Friday and throughout the evening, enabling fans to purchase food and drink as they wait for the store doors to open.

Store Opening Hours

* Stadium of Light Fri 6th Aug 9.00am - 3.00pm
(new shirt not available until 12:01am)
Sat 7th Aug 12.01am - 1.30am
8.00am - 5.00pm

* Savacentre, Washington Fri 6th Aug 8.00am - 8.00pm
Sat 7th Aug 8.00am - 8.00pm

The new home kit can also be pre-ordered on-line at www.safc.com/store or via the mail order hotline on 0191 551 5030.