NEWCASTLE United stars mingled with members of the Toon Army last night as the club's new away strip was launched at midnight.

Hundreds of fans enjoyed three hours of street entertainment, music and a spectacular fireworks display at St James' Park, in Newcastle.

According to club officials, the new Adidas strip - black, blue and white - is already proving a great hit with United players and fans, and advance orders run into thousands.

The last kit launch, a year ago, attracted well over 1,000 supporters to the grounds.

Hazel Hebron, head of retail at Newcastle United, said: "The feedback from customers is tremendous. They love the kit and so do the players.

"We expect this to be one of the best selling United change strips for years."

Newcastle manager Bobby Robson gave special permission for United stars Rob Lee, Steve Howey, Shay Given and Kevin Gallacher to attend the launch.

The event featured juggler and unicyclist Mr Topper, mime artist Richard Knight and stiltwalker and tightrope artist Emile Epstein.

Newcastle's home shirt, which is being altered to include the logo of NTL, the club's new main sponsor, will go on sale in mid-August in time for the start of the new season on Saturday, August 19.

How prices compare

Prices for a shirt for adult, shirt for child and full kit for child.

Newcastle United: £40, £30, £53

Darlington FC: £30, £25, £44 Hartlepool United: £35.99, £29.99, £50.97

Middlesbrough FC: £40, £25-£27.50, £41-£47.50