Momentum grows for Sunderland 2018 as community backs the bid
People from across Sunderland and the North East have been backing the city’s bid to host World Cup matches in 2018. Supporters have started signing special books at local businesses and libraries and are voting online in huge numbers to send a clear message to the FA that the region is passionate about watching World Cup football at the Stadium of Light.
A new dedicated website has been set up at www.sunderland2018-2022.com to allow people to send their votes of support for Sunderland’s bid to the FA and tens of thousands have already been cast. Fans can also download posters, screensavers and internet banners from the site for free, to show their support and fly the flag for 2018.
Businesses and individuals can use the free download toolkit to help build momentum for the campaign and spread the message to get every company in Sunderland showing their support. Station Taxis has already donated the advertising space on their vehicles to give their backing to the bid and every household and business is being encouraged to get involved.
There are permanent signing books at the Stadium of Light, Darlington Arena, Sunderland Aquatics Centre, Redworth Hall and the City Library and Arts Centre, along with a number of other locations, allowing people to show their support for Sunderland’s 2018 host city bid.
A book will also be available to sign on the Sunderland City Council bus which will be in place during the Sunderland International Airshow, which takes off today at the Seaburn and Roker seafront.
Paul Watson, leader of Sunderland City Council, comments:
From the start of the campaign, the popular support shown for the bid has been absolutely fantastic. The new website is a really great tool that allows people to get involved in and back Sunderland’s campaign to host World Cup matches in 2018. I urge all those who want to give their support to go to www.sunderland2018-2022.com or sign one of the many books located across the city.
Lesley Callaghan, marketing and commercial director of Sunderland AFC, added:
Public enthusiasm will be an important factor in the FA’s evaluation of the applications to be included in the 2018 England World Cup Bid. The positive response being given to Sunderland’s campaign is a clear statement to the football community that the North East public will make sure that World Cup matches at the Stadium of Light are very special occasions, which will live up to the FA’s desire to make a World Cup in England, the best tournament ever.