FOOTBALL fans could face tough action if their cars cause match day parking problems in Newcastle city centre.
Instead of being issued with £20 tickets, supporters parking in streets surrounding Newcastle United's St James's Park ground could have their vehicles towed away.
The clampdown starts on Saturday, ahead of the derby match with rivals Sunderland.
It follows serious problems caused by match parking, and complaints from residents in the Arthur's Hill area.
Roads around Stanhope Street and Pitt Street have become a big attraction for fans scrambling for parking spaces following the designation of Barrack Road as clearway.
Twice in recent weeks, fire crews have had problems reaching emergencies because of parked cars.
Cars causing problems will be towed away and owners will have to pay up to £200 for their return.
Inspector Nick Spencer said: "We want to get the message over that motorists must use common sense when they are parking on match days."
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