HEXHAM'S MP Guy Opperman has added his name to the list of North East MPs calling for an independent investigation into the failed Newcastle United takeover.

A letter from Mr Opperman's office, sent to a constituent and shared widely on social media, said: "Guy is supportive of the Newcastle United Supporters Trust campaign and has written to the Chief Executive of the Premier League, Richard Masters, for answers and transparency over the Premier League's handling of the Newcastle United takeover."

Thirteen other North East MPs have also written to the Premier League over the collapsed takeover.

Fans of the football club are demanding answers after a £300 million deal backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) collapsed last week.

It is understood that the consortium behind the deal lost patience after four months of waiting for the owners' and directors' test to be carried out by the Premier League.