FANS are being asked not to bring bags into Newcastle United matches as part of enhanced security in the wake of recent terrorist attacks.

The move is one of a string of security measures at St James’ Park announced by the club yesterday.

Roads around the city centre stadium will be closed on match days, with fans urged to use public transport to get to the game.

The club says that, although there is nothing to suggest that the stadium is a terrorist target, it has worked with fans, the police and Newcastle City Council over the summer to review security.

During the 2015 Paris attacks, suicide bombers struck at the Stade de France during a France v Germany match and in May, 22 people were killed in a terrorist bombing at the Ariana Grande concert at Manchester Arena.

Supporters are being asked not to bring bags to the stadium for Saturday’s home game against West Ham, which will be watched by around 52,000 fans, and on matchdays throughout the 2017/18 season.

Searches will take place at stadium entry points and any supporters with bags are being warned they are likely to face delays getting into the stadium.

Roads around the East Stand will be closed 90 minutes before kick-off, with some parking suspended for safety reasons.

Strawberry Place will be closed from the start of the second half for 90 minutes.

Steve Storey, head of safety and security at Newcastle United, said: “The safety of all supporters is of paramount importance to us and various measures have been introduced to improve security in and around the stadium.

“Some of these measures will be highly visible for all to see, however some measures will be more discreet and details will not be disclosed.

“Whilst the police are keen to emphasise that there is no intelligence to suggest that our stadium is a target for any terrorist activity, these measures are a reasonable and proportionate measure to take in light of recent attacks elsewhere.

“We hope these steps provide reassurance to everyone coming to the match.”