A FAR right demonstration and counter march is being held in the North-East as thousands of football fans come to the region for a Premier League clash.

There will be an EDL demonstration at the site of a new mosque in St Marks Road in Millfield, Sunderland, with about 200 people expected to attend at 1.45pm.

Prior to that there will be an anti-fascist march and demonstration from the Murray Library on Chester Road at 11.30am.

Meanwhile, Sunderland AFC will be playing Manchester United at the Stadium of Light, with the game kicking off at 12.30pm.

Residents can expect to see extra police in and around the city to ensure the day’s events pass smoothly and with minimum disruption to everyone.

Sunderland area commander, Chief Superintendent Kay Blyth, said: “Northumbria Police has a vast amount of experience in policing events such as these and we have plans in place ensure the day runs smoothly.

“We recognise there may be feelings of concern and vulnerability within a number of communities and we continue to work closely with partner organisations and representatives from communities across the city to ensure they feel reassured and know what to expect on Saturday.

“Sunderland has a long history of communities living and working together and we want that to continue.”

Metro users are reminded Nexus is carrying out a four day major line closure between Gateshead, South Tyneside and Sunderland over the Easter weekend.

People travelling within the city of Sunderland, as well as Boldon and Cleadon, should leave a little extra time for the journey as there will be a reduced service with just four trains per hour between Brockley Whins and South Hylton.