A MAN has been arrested after graffiti was daubed at Newcastle United's stadium hours after the St James’ Park signs were removed.

The letters were torn down after November’s announcement of the name change to the Sports Direct Arena.

The Northern Echo: St James' Park

The removal sparked anger among thousands of fans. And overnight the words St James were written in white paint in the place where the official sign was placed.

Workmen were this morning seen scrubbing away the graffiti ready for the new signs to go up.

A Northumbria Police spokesman confirmed that Michael Atkinson, 29, of Hareydene, Newbiggin Hall, Newcastle, had been arrested in the early hours.

He was charged with criminal damage and bailed to appear before Newcastle magistrates on Wednesday March 7.