POLICE were preparing for trouble ahead of the Tyne-Wear football derby today.

An army of 700 officers, 30 mounted police and 30 police dog handlers took to the streets of Newcastle in a show of force intended to quell trouble if it starts.

Thousands of Sunderland football fans descended on the city for the 1.30pm kickoff.

A Northumbria Police spokesman said the force would strive to keep rival supporters apart before and after the game - and warned of firm action against troublemakers.

He said: "People who come to the game intent on causing trouble shouldnt bother because we will take firm action against them.

"They should stay away and let the real football fans enjoy their day out."

He said police had been working closely with both clubs and Newcastle City Council in planning for the fixture.

It is the first Tyne-Wear derby for nearly two years.

The last top-flight meeting between the two sides was a draw, shortly before Newcastle were relegated.

Seven people were arrested so far in the lead up to the match.

The arrests, which took place across the Northumbria force area, were all of known hooligans for breaking football banning orders.

A Northumbria Police spokesman said: "These arrests just go to show that we simply won't tolerate anyone intent on causing trouble."