SAFC supporters attending Sunday’s derby are being reminded that a free bus service is available to and from St James’ Park.
The buses will depart from the Stadium of Light at 11:15am on Sunday morning, taking fans directly to St James’ Park. They will be escorted by Northumbria Police for the duration of the journey, affording the quickest and safest travel option for those attending the game.
Due to the festive period, public transport across the region will be exceptionally busy and to avoid any delays or issues in getting to the game, Sunderland fans are strongly advised to take advantage of the free bus service provided by Sunderland AFC.
Almost 2,000 SAFC fans have already indicated they will be using official club transport and any supporter who wishes to use the bus service can still obtain a pass from the Stadium of Light ticket office by telephone – 0191 5515004 or email [email protected].
The ticket office will be open from 9am until 5:30pm Thursday and Friday and 10am until 1pm on Saturday.
Buses will board from 10:30am in the Green Car Park, located next to the ticket office/Black Cat House. The east stand concourse at the Stadium of Light will be open for the comfort of supporters from 10am, with catering services and toilet facilities available until the buses depart.
The buses will return from St James’ Park to the Stadium of Light after the game and again, SAFC is urging as many supporters as possible to use the service to ensure they can return to Sunderland both quickly and safely.
Sunderland AFC head of safety, Paul Weir, said: “The derby is a fantastic occasion and one that every fan looks forward to. Of course we want to ensure that our fans have an enjoyable day, but above all that they enjoy the game safely and the complimentary bus service is by far the best option to ensure this is this case.
SAFC safety staff will travel on the buses and will also be on duty at St James’ Park to assist Sunderland supporters.