IT was not quite the Christmas truce that some had hoped for but, for many, there was distinctly different to feel to this year’s Tyne-Wear derby.

Officers tried a new tack to policing the usually tense fixture with Sunderland supporters being allowed to make their way to the home of arch rivals, Newcastle, without a police escort.

Bonhomie generated by the Black Cats supporters’ fundraising efforts in memory of two Magpies who died in the MH17 plane disaster went a long way.

But that did not stop a few skirmishes breaking out as away fans arrived in the city.

There were familiar ugly scenes as rival fans confronted one another on Westgate Road outside the Milecastle pub.

Traffic was stopped as fans chanted and taunted each other but they were quickly dispersed by mounted police.

Officers once again moved in as Sunderland fans made their way to the stadium along St James Boulevard.

During the game, which ended 1-0, with Sunderland scoring a last minute winner, there was also a new found understanding between the North-East sides.

Fans of both teams showed their respect for Liam Sweeney and John Alder, who died along with hundreds of others when their plane was brought in Ukraine over the summer, by clapping on the seventeenth minute of the game.

Police said more than 200,000 visited the city to enjoy the festivities, do last minute Christmas shopping with 50,000 watching the Tyne-Wear derby.

Chief Superintendent Steve Neill said: "I want to thank the public for their patience and cooperation.

"It has been a very busy day but we are pleased that it has passed without any significant disruption or major incident.

"The vast majority of football fans were well behaved today and the Tyne-Wear derby was celebrated for the fantastic sporting event that it is.

"I'd like to praise supporters from both clubs. They worked well with officers on the ground, were extremely patient and good natured and treated the day in the best spirit.”

A total of 17 people were for public order offences, assault, breach of banning order and drug offences.

Twenty-six supporters coaches transported approximately 1,500 Sunderland fans back to the Stadium of Light safely.

Stephen Savage, director of public safety and regulation at Newcastle City Centre said: “Apart from some minor incidents the day appears to have passed successfully.

“I would like to pay tribute to both sets of fans who have supported their teams with passion and respect for each other."