Wembley heroes to join in parade through streets
SOUTH SHIELDS TO CONGRATULATE FA VASE WINNERS IN TOWN CELEBRATION
SOUTH Shields FC will lead the town’s summer parade with an open-top bus tour to celebrate their historic quadruple.
The Mariners triumphed in the FA Vase final at Wembley in May, to add to their success in the Northern League Division One, the Northern League Cup and the Durham Challenge Cup.
Thousands of people are expected to line the parade route from South Shields Town Hall to Bents Park, which will be kicked off by the club’s heroes on July 1.
Mayor of South Tyneside Olive Punchion said: “We are thrilled for the club and it’s only fitting that we should mark their achievements with a victory parade.
“The annual Summer Parade is our largest civic community event, involving more than 2,000 people and supported by many more.
“It is always a real spectacle and it will be fantastic to see the club heading it up on an open top bus.
“I’m sure the people of South Tyneside and their loyal fan base will come out in force and join in with the homecoming celebrations, cheering them and the rest of the participants.
“It has been a remarkable season for players, officials and fans alike, and now the whole borough can come together to mark the Mariners’ historic victory and give them the recognition they so rightly deserve.”
Captain and former Sunderland player Julio Arca fulfilled a lifelong ambition by lifting the FA Vase at Wembley on May 21.
But in the aftermath of the Manchester bombing which claimed the lives of South Shields teenagers Chloe Rutherford and Liam Curry, the decision was made to postpone any celebration.
Now, the Mariners will lead the annual parade which this year will celebrate the magic and wonder of stories with a Once Upon a Time theme.
Geoff Thompson, chairman of South Shields FC, said: “Winning the FA Vase after such a successful season really was a dream come true.
“I’m so proud of the team and everyone behind the scenes at SSFC whose commitment deserves a home town heroes’ welcome.
“The sight of more than 13,000 Shields fans at Wembley was incredible and we can’t wait to see them all again at the Summer Parade.
“I’d like to thank South Tyneside Council for their continued support.
“We are extremely proud to be invited to be part of the parade and look forward to seeing as many people as possible to show off our silverware.”