POLICE hope the festive spirit of goodwill will extend to both sets of supporters at this weekend’s Tyne Wear derby.

Newcastle United host Sunderland in the Premier League on Sunday (December 21) lunchtime and there will be a “significant” police presence in the city, which will be packed with shoppers and revellers.

But there will be no police escort of visiting fans between the Central Station and St James’ Park.

About 2,700 Sunderland supporters are expected to attend the game, which will be live on TV.

Many will travel on club coaches but supporters are free to go by any means they can.

Police hope the ugly scenes after recent derby games will be replaced by a new mood of friendly rivalry that has grown since Black Cats fans raised money in memory of Flight MH17 victims John Alder and Liam Sweeney, who died flying to a Newcastle pre-season friendly in New Zealand.

Match Commander Chief Superintendent Steve Neill said: "We are expecting a busy day in the city but we are confident that our extensive planning, and the number of officers we have on duty, will help make the day an enjoyable one for everyone.

"As usual, we have been in contact with the fans, the clubs, local businesses and residents to inform them about police activity on the day.

"We have listened to fans, the clubs and to our partners who agree we need to move away from previous methods of containing supporters and find a more mature solution to policing fans.

"We have more officers out and about than in previous derbies and there will be a large number stationed along all main routes leading to the stadium to ensure everyone's safety.

"We have planned ahead and have contingencies to cover any situation that might arise.

"I want to reassure the public that their safety is our priority.

"We have worked closely with partners and I'm sure it will be a busy and exciting day for us all.

"We are highly-experienced in policing derbies and large scale events and we are proud of what we do - we want to make this a derby to be proud of."

Licensed premises will not serve alcohol before 10am

The bus service for Sunderland fans is free and will be escorted by police.

Fans can get a place by calling 0191- 551-5004 or emailing ticket.office@safc.com.