Beyonce fans could be seen swarming outside an iconic North East football stadium as they prepare to watch their idol perform tonight.

Many members of the Beyhive could be seen braving a harsh sun in the Golden Circle line as they queued to see their idol today (May 23).

Queues were described by our reporter on the ground as "long" and placed into an off-street near the stadium.

Read more: Beyonce in Sunderland: Doors opening, price of drinks and start time

The Northern Echo:

One exhausted concert-goer said those attending had been "herded like cattle into these pens" with very little shelter.

Meanwhile, the Echo's reporter said the other queues were much closer to the stadium and had greater access to refreshments and shelter.

Some of those queuing have been outside the stadium since 4am, with the doors set to open at 4pm.

Read more: Beyonce in Sunderland: Doors opening, price of drinks and start time

The Northern Echo: Niamh, Ella and PaigeNiamh, Ella and Paige (Image: Kayleigh Fraser)

Many said staff had been "great" to those standing in line, despite having issues with the queuing system.

Our reporter captured fans queuing in the Golden Circle line, including one from Bishop Auckland, who were all happy to be attending.

One said "It's a privilege to be alive at the same time as Beyonce."

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The Northern Echo: Lovely group of fans waiting here for Golden Circle. Some have waited since 4am, with two from our very own Bishop Auckland! One said It's a privilege to be alive at the same time as Beyonce.Lovely group of fans waiting here for Golden Circle. Some have waited since 4am, with two from our very own Bishop Auckland! One said It's a privilege to be alive at the same time as Beyonce. (Image: Kayleigh Fraser)

Meanwhile, other fans such as Niamh, Ella and Paige said they are really looking forward to the night and set list, and had been trying not to watch videos to get a surprise when they go in.

Some raised complaints regarding the shelter provided in the middle of the road and away from the stadium.

One woman reportedly said: "We've paid £1600 to queue like this."