Rugby World Cup Fanzone off to record-breaking start

Newcastle’s Official Rugby World Cup Fanzone got off to a record-breaking start on Saturday as crowds flocked to enjoy a celebration of rugby. Early figures indicate that Newcastle’s Fanzone welcomed 34,000 punters through its doors for the city’s first Rugby World Cup game on Saturday, the best fanzone attendance on a single day so far in the tournament. There was no doubt that the city was buzzing with a carnival atmosphere. Thousands of travelling fans from South Africa and Scotland packed the city centre, alongside huge numbers of locals who turned out to enjoy the rugby celebrations. Nick Forbes, Leader of Newcastle City Council: “We are absolutely thrilled with the success of last weekend’s event. The Fanzone proved immensely popular. We couldn’t have asked for a better start to the tournament here in the city. “Planning and delivering a major event of this scale is as much a team effort as the events on the field. This is the product on two years of planning between England 2015, the City Council, Northumbria Police and a host of other partners across the region. “We are now putting final preparations in place to welcome visiting teams and their band of supporters next weekend. It promises to be another lively fun-filled experience and hopefully two more fantastic games on the pitch. “On Friday I’m really looking forward to seeing the Tongans respond to the All Black Haka with their Sipi Tau. And of course on Saturday Scotland meet Samoa for a crunch match which will decide if they make it to the Quarter Finals.” Newcastle plays host to two more games this weekend - Friday 9 October, 8pm - New Zealand v Tonga, Saturday 10 October, 2.30pm Samoa v Scotland The Fanzone will be open from 12 noon to 11.30pm on Friday 9 October, a full programme of music and entertainment, a big screen to watch the matches, as well as pitch up and play sessions in the mini stadium, food and drink concessions, and a fairground and big wheel to enjoy great views across the city. The Webb Ellis Cup will be in the Fanzone (main marquee) 1.00pm to 5.30pm, so don't miss your chance to take a selfie with the Trophy As part of the Conversion Festival, there will be two live performances of Haka Day Out at the Fanzone at 3.30pm and 6.30pm. A celebration of New Zealand Maori culture and art performed by Corey Baker Dance, spectators will have the chance to have a go at New Zealand’s famous Haka themselves. On Saturday 10 October the Fanzone opens its doors at the earlier time of 10.00am to 11.30pm, with three matches on the big screen: Samoa v Scotland (Kick off 2.30pm) Australia v Wales (Kick off 4.45pm); England v Uruguay (Kick off 8pm). Fans can expected another packed day of entertainment, food and drink and rugby celebrations.