Hebburn Town FC and South Shields FC confirm Boxing Day derby details

Hebburn Town FC and South Shields FC have confirmed details of their eagerly anticipated Boxing Day derby meeting at the Trustmark Group Stadium.

The Hornets defied the odds to secure a shock Northern Premier League Premier Division title win last season and that ensured they landed a historic promotion into the National League North, the second tier of the non-league game. It also meant Hebburn had followed in the footsteps of their South Tyneside neighbours by progressing from Northern League Division Two into step two over the last decade.

Talk over a long-awaited derby clash started from the moment that promotion was secured as the two local rivals will meet at Hebburn’s Trustmark Group Stadium next month and the reverse fixture set to take place at Mariners Park in March next year.

After discussions with Northumbria Police, the two clubs have confirmed the Boxing Day meeting will now get underway at 12.30pm and all tickets will be sold via Hebburn’s Fanbase ticketing system. The clubs have also announced spectator segregation will be in place and home tickets are set to go on sale to Hornets season ticket holders and commercial partners on Wednesday, November 18. 600 away tickets will go on sale to Mariners supporters on Tuesday, December 1, which is the same day the general sale of remaining home tickets will be available.

‘A South Tyneside Derby to be proud of’

A joint statement released by both clubs on Monday lunchtime read: “Representatives from both football clubs have met to agree a collaborative operational approach, not only for the Boxing Day fixture but also for the return fixture scheduled for March 2027. These discussions have been constructive and positive, ensuring that both clubs have a joined-up approach and are fully aligned on the operational proposals being put forward.

“Importantly, these early discussions have also involved Northumbria Police and the respective security teams across both clubs, with the shared priority of ensuring the safety, security and well-being of everyone attending either fixture. Both clubs are committed to working together to deliver an event that supporters can look forward to, with appropriate arrangements in place to ensure the facilities and matchday environment are safe and welcoming for all.”

The statement continued: “Officials, players and staff at both clubs are united in wanting these two fixtures, on Boxing Day and again in March 2027, to showcase the progressive journeys both clubs have undertaken. The success and development of football across South Tyneside is something to be celebrated. Both Hebburn Town and South Shields have played an important part in raising the profile of the local game and these fixtures provide an opportunity to demonstrate what football in our borough has to offer.

“Yes, there will be local rivalry, passion and plenty to play for on the pitch. That's what makes a derby special. However, beyond the 90 minutes, this is an opportunity for two neighbouring football clubs, their supporters and the wider community to come together and celebrate the game we all love. Two clubs. One borough. One community. A South Tyneside Derby to be proud of.”

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