PROTESTERS took to the streets of Ponteland last night as Newcastle United owner, Mike Ashley, dined with players and manager, Rafa Benitez.

The squad met at Rialto Italian restaurant but a number of Newcastle fans congregated to express their displeasure at the way Mr Ashley runs their club.

The pasta and pizza summit is Benitez's first meeting with Mike Ashley in five months.

Restaurant owner, Sonny Miah, said: "They all thoroughly enjoyed the evening."

Players were treated to various authentic Italian chicken and fish dishes, whilst Mike Ashley had a bolognese and Rafa Benitez a risotto marinara.

Speaking about the protests, Sonny added: "We called the police as a matter of caution in case any fights broke out.

"But there was no disruption to the restaurant."