Police are warning motorists of temporary road closures and delays during the the Queen’s Baton Relay around the North East.

The North East will welcome the Queen’s Baton Relay on Thursday 14 and Friday 15 July. Despite the excitement, Police are warning motorists of delays on roads during the event.

A Force spokesman said: "As the baton is transported between destinations, there will be some temporary road closures in place and there may be some delays or increased congestion.

"Details of any planned road closures can be obtained via your relevant local authority’s website."

The Relay began in October 2021 with the Queen placing a message to the Commonwealth into the Baton. 

It is now on a 294-day long journey to all 72 nations and territories across the Commonwealth, ahead of this summer’s Games to be held in Birmingham.

On Thursday night, the baton will arrive in Sunderland – and then on Friday, it will be transported across areas of North Tyneside, Northumberland, Gateshead and Newcastle.

Overseeing the Baton’s safe passage is Superintendent Steve Wykes, who said: “The next two days should be really exciting and I know our communities across the North East will give the Baton-bearers a great welcome."