THE 50,000-plus fans attending One Direction’s North-East gig next week are being urged to plan their journey and arrive early.

Sunderland’s Stadium of Light will stage the latest in a series of top concerts on Wednesday (May 28) and the club is advising that there are expected to be long queues to get in.

Fans are also being warned that there will be no queuing permitted in the days leading up to the concert.

External courtyards will open after 2.30pm on the day, with the main stadium gates open from 5pm. One Direction’s support act, 5 Seconds of Summer, are due on stage at 6.50pm, with the main act due at 8.15pm.

No food or drink can be taken into the venue as there is catering in the stadium.

A ‘Challenge 25’ protocol will be operated for alcohol sales.

Approach roads to the stadium will be closed and city centre car parks, a short walk from the stadium, should be used.

The official rendezvous point is near St Peter’s Metro station and parents or guardians can meet youngsters – again there is no vehicle access to this area and it must be accessed on foot.

Metro trains will be running to and from Sunderland on Wednesday, 28 May and, passengers are advised to plan their journey in advance, leave extra time and check on-line for the latest updates at www.nexus.org.uk.

There will be a Metro train every 15 minutes during the day between Newcastle and Sunderland rising to a train every five minutes after 4pm, with the high-frequency service continuing after the event to make sure large crowds can get away from the venue safely.

The show is due to end at 10pm. Visit www.safcconcerts.com for the latest news and information.