SUPPORTERS of the Black Cats in the Durham area could be taken for a ride this season.

The Langley Park branch of the Sunderland Supporters Association is urging more fans to hop on its buses to home and away games.

The branch, which has about 400 members, hires two double-decker buses for each match at the Stadium of Light.

One starts at Langley Park and picks up at Witton Gilbert, Sacriston, Newton Hall and Durham. The other runs from Esh Winning, calling at Ushaw Moor and Carrville on its way to Wearside.

The branch also runs coaches to away games.

Joint transport organiser Malcolm Harvey said: "The return fare is only £2 and getting the bus means you can avoid all the parking problems around the stadium.

"Both buses are double deckers - 80 seaters - and were three-quarters full last season. Obviously we'd like to see them full up so we are urging any supporters in the area who need transport to games, to get in touch.

"We also do coaches to away matches."

For more information about the club call Malcolm on 07710 380202 or Harry Christian on 0191-373 3393.