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Newcastle issue statement after 'scenes of violent disorder' ahead of Sela Weekender

by Olly Hawkins · 8 August 2024, 11:08

Newcastle United have released an official statement ahead of this weekend's Sela Cup, providing an update to fans and the arrangement moving forwards after scenes of violent disorder around the country.

The club insists that the safety and security of supporters and staff is of 'paramount importance' heading into this weekend's games at St James' Park, where Friday's 7.30pm clash with Girona will be followed by Newcastle Women facing AC Milan Women at 1pm on Saturday before Eddie Howe's Mags face Stade Brest at 4pm.

One powerful line from the statement says: "The Sela Weekender will include players, supporters and officials from around the world, uniting to participate in a spectacular event that is open to all. This is who we are as a city, region and club...welcoming, inclusive, United as One."

Read the statement in full below, detailing the club's stance and the measures in place to keep fans safe and ensure Newcastle remains a club that is inclusive for people of all races and religions:

Newcastle United statement - Thursday 8th August, 2024:

Following recent scenes of violent disorder across the country, Newcastle United can provide an update to supporters in relation to arrangements for the forthcoming Sela Weekender matches at St. James’ Park.



The safety and security of supporters, staff and everyone who engages with the club is of paramount importance and the club’s usual comprehensive matchday planning is in place in readiness for three fixtures across Friday and Saturday.

The club is continuing to work closely with its independent Safety Advisory Group and key stakeholders, including Northumbria Police and local authorities, ensuring we are fully prepared to welcome fans into the stadium.

Following reports of planned protest on Saturday 10th August, the club has been assured that mitigation measures are in place to ensure everyone can enjoy the city and Sela Weekender safely.

PLANNING FOR MATCHDAY

For information on visiting St. James’ Park, please click here. If the situation changes, or as more information becomes available, we will provide updates through our usual official club channels, including email, newcastleunited.com and social media channels, where appropriate.

As the week progresses, Northumbria Police will provide the most up to date information on the city, as well as offering advice and reassurance to residents and visitors. In addition, Nexus will continue to provide updates on the city’s transport network.

Supporters are encouraged to plan their journey to and from St. James’ Park early, and to visit https://www.nexus.org.uk/ for the very latest information.

WELCOMING. INCLUSIVE. UNITED AS ONE.

Football is for all, and Newcastle is for all. As the Premier League’s first ‘Football Club of Sanctuary’, we have a responsibility and commitment to being a power for good in our communities and to upholding positive values that make our region so special.

The Sela Weekender will include players, supporters and officials from around the world, uniting to participate in a spectacular event that is open to all. This is who we are as a city, region and club - welcoming, inclusive, United as One.

Our staff will be on hand to ensure everyone visiting St. James’ Park has a safe and enjoyable experience. We would like to take this opportunity to remind all supporters that we have a zero-tolerance approach towards discrimination and abuse of any kind, whether directed at players, coaches, fellow supporters or our employees.

REPORTING ABUSE INSIDE THE GROUND

To support us in eliminating discriminatory and abusive behaviour in our environments, please report any abuse that you see or hear as soon as possible.

Supporters are asked to report any incidents during the match when possible. Supporters can speak to their nearest steward, or text HELP to 60070 and include the seat location and details of the incident, to help us to identify those responsible.

If this is not possible, please report incidents by email to [email protected] or [email protected].

Following any allegations of discriminatory or abusive behaviour, we will work together with the relevant authorities to identify perpetrators and will pursue the strongest possible action against those involved.

REPORTING A CRIME

To report a crime or share information, please send Northumbria Police a direct message on social media, or use the live chat function and online report forms at https://www.northumbria.police.uk/. Alternatively, if you are unable to make contact in this way, call 101.

In an emergency, or where a crime is taking place, always dial 999.

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