Ha'way the lads!

City landmarks, structures and public spaces are being lit up red and white this weekend to show support for Sunderland AFC as the team head into the final of the Papa John's Trophy on Sunday.

The team colours will be seen overnight at Hylton Castle, the Beacon, Northern Spire, Keel Square, Fulwell Mill, the white lighthouse at Seaburn, Market Square and High Street West from dusk till dawn on both Saturday and Sunday night.

Leader of Sunderland City Council, Councillor Graeme Miller said: "The team has worked hard and done the city proud to reach another Wembley final.

"Their strength and stamina has been fantastic, despite a season without fans in the stadium to cheer them on.

"If the team continues playing the way we've seen in recent weeks we can hope to see a great performance and a positive result.

"Ha'way the Lads!"

Dr Fadi Khalil, local GP and Clinical Vice Chair of NHS Sunderland CCG, said: "To see some silverware brought back to the city would be a much-needed boost right now.

"But please remember, the game is being played behind closed doors for good reason, so we should all watch it behind closed doors too. Let's celebrate our achievement of reaching Wembley by continuing to protect our families and friends. We've made great progress in getting the infection rates down and protecting our most vulnerable, so let's not drop the ball by gathering with people outside of your bubble.

"Show your support by staying away."

From today (Friday 12 March), drivers and passengers will see the Variable Messaging Signs (VMS) at A183 Chester Road, A1018 Newcastle Road, A690 Durham Road displaying the messages: 'Ha'way the Lads', 'Good luck' and '#WONTBEHOMEFORTEA'.