Ha'way the lads!

We're passionate about sport and especially football. With football being akin to a religion in the North East there is no disguising the passion throughout the region whichever team warrants your allegiance. The atmosphere on match days is electric and an unforgettable experience. Premier League clubs Sunderland AFC and Newcastle United both have major Irish connections.

The magnificent 49,000 capacity Stadium of Light arena nestles on the banks of the River Wear and boasts some of the most passionate fans in football who in a recent survey were crowned the loudest in the league! With Irish hero Niall Quinn at the helm and a side that includes a host of Republic and Northern Ireland internationals among its ranks, the Irish connection at Sunderland is there for all to see.

And over at Newcastle, the legendary St. James' Park towers over the centre of the city where most other cities have their cathedrals. Perhaps this says something about the place the club has in the hearts of their passionate and loyal following - the 'Toon Army'. The ground holds 52,000, making it the one of the biggest football stadium in England and creating an atmosphere that is second to none.