HEXHAM MP Guy Opperman believes the abandoned £300 million takeover of Newcastle United would have brought benefits to the Tyne Valley.

In a letter to the CEO of the Premier League, Richard Masters, Mr Opperman revealed that hundreds of constituents had contacted him over the issue.

He wrote: "I have received hundreds of emails and letters from my frustrated Hexham constituents over the past week regarding the failed takeover bid of Newcastle United after months of waiting for an outcome.

"Newcastle United fans right across the country are dismayed at this recent news, and are looking for answers from the Premier League to why this takeover bid collapsed.

"My constituents have asked me to write to you about more than football.

"It is my understanding that members of the consortium involved in this deal had made investment commitments to Newcastle and the wider North East economy, which would have benefitted my constituents.

"My constituents would like clear answers to the following questions:

  • Can you explain why a decision was not made in four months?
  • Can these negotiations be restored?
  • Why have the Premier League not consulted and communicated their decision making with Newcastle Untied fans

"Encouraging investment is a priority for myself and colleagues across the North East.

"I would appreciate a response at your earliest convenience that I can share with my constituents."

Mr Opperman joined a number of other North East MPs in writing to the league over the takeover.

More than 96,600 people have signed a petition on Change.org demanding answers from the league after the takeover collapsed.

The buyers, which included the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia and billionaire property tycoons the Reuben brothers, released a statement stating they were withdrawing from the £300 million deal after the Premier League took months to make a decision.