Police Praise Fans And Locals Over RWC

11 October 2015, 11:23 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

Northumbria Police say hosting three international games for the Rugby World Cup has been a big success.

The games have attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors to St James' Park, and officers say the behaviour's been exceptional with very few low-level arrests.

Chief Superintendent Steve Neill said:

"I can't thank the fans, visitors and local people enough for their excellent behaviour and patience.

"Thousands of people have descended into the city to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the matches or visit the Fanzones in the area.

"It really could have been made very challenging for us however, thanks to everyone's cooperation and the fantastic work of our partners, this really has been a privilege to be part of. I am exceptional proud to have been a part of it myself.

"This is not something that happens on our doorstep everyday but everyone in the region has welcomed this opportunity and reaffirmed that the North East is one of the friendliest, most vibrant and safest places to be."