FOOTBALL fans are toasting the survival of a landmark pub near Sunderland's Stadium of Light.

The Fort, a popular match day watering hole for Sunderland supporters from across the North-East, had seen better days and was in danger of closure until local businessman Peter Graham acquired the premises.

He has overseen a red- and-white makeover at the 100-year-old hostelry, at the junction of Roker Avenue and North Bridge Street.

The lifelong Sunderland fan has turned the Fort into an ultimate supporters' pub, with the decor throughout reflecting his passion for the Black Cats.

"It was a labour of love to take this pub over and begin the conversion to make it a place where every Sunderland fan feels at home," said Mr Graham

"We had prints of Sunderland legends commissioned and we've brought back memories of special matches in the club's history.

"I want it to be a place where all Sunderland fans, of any age, can come and talk about the club in a good atmosphere."

Manageress Amanda Jones and staff are preparing for a busy evening tomorrow with Sunderland's first home night match back in the Premiership, against Manchester City.

A celebration to mark the restoration of the pub, including a free football talk-in, featuring former Sunderland skipper Kevin Ball, will be held on Thursday, starting at 8.30pm.

* Fans are reminded that kick-off tomorrow and for all future midweek matches at the Stadium of Light reverts to 7.45pm.

It follows a poll on the club's official website, safc.com, during the summer, which resulted in more than 10,000 fans voting for the 7.45pm start instead of the 8pm kick-off slot of recent seasons.