Newcastle is celebrating after a record breaking weekend which saw Rugby World Cup arrive in the city.
Over 34,000 people went through the gates of the city centre Fanzone, the highest so far in the Tournament to date.
Meanwhile the on-site Heineken Double-Decker Bar Bus did its highest ever single day sales.
But there was more to the day than alcohol, with the Fanzone’s community pitch full through-out the day with fans who turned up to have a go at rugby under the direction of the Falcons Community Foundation.
Mick Hogan, Managing Director of Newcastle Falcons who are operating the Fanzone in conjunction with Ramside Events said:
“To have 34,000 people go through the Fanzone in one day is unbelievable. Newcastle lived up to its reputation as the greatest party city in the world and it was wonderful to see the Springboks, Scottish and local fans mixing together and having such a great time.
“What was also fantastic to see was the community stadium we built in the Fanzone being used by young and old throughout the day.
“Newcastle has embraced the Rugby World Cup in the most positive and enthusiastic manner as we all knew it would, and we’re looking forward to another huge weekend with two games coming this Friday and Saturday.”
Reflecting on the biggest weekend of rugby Newcastle has ever seen, Hogan went on to comment on his club’s Legends match which took place at the Falcons’ Kingston Park Stadium the night before Rugby World Cup arrived in town and saw former rugby stars from around the world take to the field one last time in aid of the Falcons Community Foundation, Wooden Spoon and the Bill MacLaren Foundation.
“The weekend started with our Legends game – one of the most uplifting occasions I’ve ever seen at Kingston Park. Fifty players gave up their time free of charge and smashed each other for 80 minutes.
“We had broken bones and bruises but the game raised tens of thousands of pounds for charity. This money will be used to inspire thousands more to get involved in rugby and will deliver a long-lasting legacy. We’d like to thank the players and all of the supporters for making the evening such a memorable occasion.”
The Newcastle city centre Fanzone, located across the road from St James’ Park, will remain open for the remainder of this week, includingon Friday and Saturday when Rugby World Cup returns to the city.
A number of World Cup games will be screened live at the site, with community rugby festivals and events also taking place throughout the week.