Prestigious cup final heads to South Shields

A prestigious cup final for first responders is to be played at South Shields FC next month.

The UK Fire Service Cup showpiece will be held on Thursday, May 12th at 1st Cloud Arena. Kick-off will be at 2pm and entry is free, with supporters encouraged to attend and show their backing.

The game is the highlight of the UK Fire Service Football Section’s calendar of events, and has been held at iconic venues including Anfield and Roker Park in the past.

Known as the FA Cup of fire service football, it has been running since the early 1970s and entries are made up from teams throughout the fire services in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, with 45 fire brigades having entered this year’s competition.

The final will be played between Greater Manchester and London, seen as two of the giants of the competition.

UK Fire Service Football Section life vice-president Peter Stronach said: “Historically the competition has been dominated by the ‘bigger’ brigades such as London and Strathclyde, who can choose from approximately 5,000 and 3,000 personnel respectively, but in a similar way as the FA Cup it hasn't prevented ‘minnows’ such as Highlands and Islands Fire Brigade, who can only select their team from 65 full-time firefighters, from winning the trophy.

“A fiercely competitive encounter is anticipated between the two finalists.

“The executive committee of the UK Fire Service Football Section and both finalists are totally indebted to South Shields FC for hosting this year's final and we look forward to seeing the teams do justice to such a magnificent stadium and excellent playing surface.”

Although there will be no entry fee, supporters who attend the game will be able to donate to the Fire Fighters Charity, with a bucket collection to be held. The TGS Bar will be open for those who come along.

Where next?

NPL Show - Final Day Special 4 Trophies still remain... Where will it go, Lets ask Ben.
Bumper crowds on Easter Monday smash milestone The Northern Premier League smashed the century milestone four-figure crowds for the season on Easter Monday.

Match centre

Northern Premier League - Premier
Northern Premier League - East
Northern Premier League - Midlands
Northern Premier League - West

Latest photos

The Pitching In Northern Premier League newsletter

Keep up-to-date with our exclusive email newsletters.

Subscribe