Newcastle United Adds Open-Top Bus Parade After Fan Backlash Over Carabao Cup Celebrations

Following significant backlash from fans, Newcastle United has revised its plans for celebrating their historic Carabao Cup victory by including an open-top bus parade ahead of the previously scheduled Town Moor event. The decision comes after widespread criticism from supporters who were disappointed by the initial omission of a traditional parade.

Originally, the club had planned to host only a celebratory event at the Town Moor, featuring live entertainment, special guests, and a full screening of the cup final. However, after an outcry from fans and intervention from local officials, Newcastle United, in coordination with Newcastle City Council and Northumbria Police, has now arranged for a modified parade to take place on Saturday evening.

The parade will begin at St James’ Park, traveling down Gallowgate, turning onto Percy Street, and continuing along the B1318 towards Gosforth before concluding at the Town Moor. Once there, Eddie Howe and his players will take to the stage and lift the Carabao Cup in front of the crowd.

The club acknowledged the overwhelming response from supporters eager to celebrate the victory. "The club received unprecedented interest from supporters wishing to attend the event on the Town Moor," Newcastle United stated. "Every fan who registered their interest will receive a ticket via email."

Chi Onwurah, MP for Newcastle Central, noted that she had been contacted by numerous upset fans regarding the absence of a parade, and Newcastle City Council leader Karen Kilgour issued a statement clarifying that the council had not blocked the event but faced logistical challenges in approving it. The original plan was adjusted after discussions between the club, city officials, and law enforcement.

The parade’s addition comes despite concerns about security and city congestion. Saturday is expected to be a busy shopping day in central Newcastle, and local police are already stretched due to the Championship fixture between Sunderland and Millwall at the Stadium of Light. Millwall fans passing through Newcastle Central Station on their way to Sunderland have further complicated security planning.

While the decision to add the parade has been welcomed, some concerns remain regarding the Town Moor event. Attendance requires prior registration, with no option for same-day entry. Additionally, the event is standing-only with limited parking. Although soft drinks, food, and merchandise will be available, no alcohol will be permitted.

Scheduled to run from 4 PM to 8 PM, the event will feature Eddie Howe and his players on stage at approximately 6 PM. However, some fans, particularly older supporters and families with young children, have voiced concerns about standing for long periods and the potential for bad weather at a site prone to turning muddy.

Despite the initial controversy, the revised celebration now includes both the fan-favorite parade and the Town Moor event. Newcastle United has promised a grand spectacle, with club sponsor Sela, a Saudi Arabian events company, set to close the celebrations with “a spectacular show.”

Meanwhile, Eddie Howe and the players not on international duty have been in Dubai for the past week and are expected to return on Tuesday. The Carabao Cup itself has remained in Newcastle and was proudly displayed at St James’ Park on Sunday during a Women’s Championship match, where Newcastle defeated Sunderland 1-0 in front of a crowd of over 38,500.

With the club responding to fan concerns, Newcastle’s celebrations are now set to be a momentous occasion for supporters eager to commemorate their team’s success.

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