Christmas Sparkle in Newcastle

Newcastle United had a home game this afternoon against Leicester.  Kick off 3pm.  I caught a bus in good time.  The journey to Gateshead was on schedule.  However when the bus left Gateshead things went a bit wrong.

Instead of heading to the Swing Bridge over the river Tyne to Newcastle the driver headed towards the Redheugh Bridge ( this bridge is the usual route but not on match days.)  When the driver got near the Redheugh Bridge he must have realised his mistake but instead of going round the roundabout and going back where he came from he got totally lost and ended up driving around a housing estate. He announced to the passengers that he was lost and got on to the depot Then he had to retrace his route until he finally headed back to Gateshead and over the correct bridge,  A few passengers were rather annoyed by this point ( missing some drinking time before the match I imagine).

Finally reached the first stop in Newcastle where I got off and started walking towards the footie ground. Newcastle was packed - Christmas shoppers plus over 52,000 football fans.  I was obviously later than usual and the queues at the turnstiles were enormous.  Finally got into my seat at 2.55pm.  Whew.

The match was a good one.  Newcastle played well and had quite a few goal chances. At half time they were 1 nil up.  And at full time the score was Newcastle 4 Leicester 0.  A great result.

Went to Tesco after the match and then for my bus... it was a bit late as the traffic was horrendous.  

Took my blip shots as I passed part of the Christmas Market in Old Eldon Square. 

Enjoyed Strictly this evening.  All the contestants were marvelous.  Im glad my favourite was the winner.

Steps today - 7,676