GATES which once adorned the home of Newcastle United are returning to St James’ Park this summer.

A donation from new sponsor, Wonga, has enabled work to begin today (Friday, June 14) on lifting the huge wrought-iron gates from Sir John Hall’s farmland at Woolsington Hall, Northumberland.

They were removed during the 1998/99 season during the rebuilding of the Milburn stand at the city centre ground and are being returned following discussions between the club, fans and the money-lending company.

The work includes the construction of a custom-built frame which is being used to transport them to a dedicated workshop where extensive refurbishment work will be undertaken prior to installation.

It is anticipated that the gates, which are set to be located outside the entrance to the main Milburn Stand reception on Barrack Road, will be unveiled near the start of the next football season.

Derek Llambias, managing director at Newcastle United, said: “We are very pleased to have worked with our supporters to see plans for the gates come to fruition.

“St James’ Park is already an iconic stadium and the gates will create a focal point that Newcastle United fans will be proud of, and that all football fans will want to see when they visit the ground and the city.

“We look forward to seeing the gates back in their full glory where they belong ahead of the new season.”

Wonga has already bought the stadium naming rights and restored the St James’ Park title from Sports Direct Arena.

This month, work began on covering vast Sports Direct advertising on the Gallowgate roof, returning it to its original colour instead of adding further branding.

An NUFC Fans United spokesperson, said: “The re-installation of the gates permanently safeguards the feature of St James’ Park as a name and its ties to the stadium and city.

“NUFC Fans United views this as an ongoing and lasting tribute to every Newcastle United supporter, player and club official who has ever entered the hallowed shrine that is St James’ Park.

“Over time the gates can become a focal point that all Newcastle United supporters, as well as visitors to this great city will embrace.”