GNE hosts open top bus parade for Chester-Le-Street United Girls

Chester-Le-Street United Girls celebrated their league wins on Monday night with a surprise trophy parade on an open top bus provided by Go North East.

The club’s two under-eights girls teams were told they were playing a friendly. Instead, their coach surprised them with their own open top bus and the chance to follow in the steps of Newcastle United by parading their silverware through the city.

The open top bus, usually used for the Toon Tour, Go North East’s  sightseeing service, took the girls, their parents and coaches to iconic locations including James’ Park and the Quayside to show off their medals and trophies. Some of the parade was broadcast live on ITV Tyne Tees, just like Newcastle United’s Carabao Cup celebrations!

Julie Richardson, from Go North East, had the honour of driving the bus. She said: “It was a pleasure to drive the teams tonight. I loved seeing the positive reaction of the people we passed on the bus – everyone was waving, cheering and tooting their horns.”

Both Chester-Le-Street United Girls' under-eights girls teams have finished at the top of their league tables, clocking up an impressive 40 wins and 296 goals between them.

Team coach Glenn Batey says: "The teams have had fantastic seasons, they haven’t lost a single match! I thought their hard work deserved a huge celebration. The parade tonight exceeded all our expectations, it was a surreal experience!”

Francesca Tannahill, a midfielder aged seven, says: “My favourite moments this season were scoring lots of goals and when we won against Darlington because I like hard matches. I like seeing my friends and my coach every week, it’s the best!”

Alison Tannahill, Francesca's mum, says: “I think getting the open top bus is such a lovely touch. Not every coach would go out their way to make sure his players were able to have such a memorable moment - they will treasure this memory forever!”

Toon Tour

The Toon Tour is back for 2025. This year, we've reduced ticket prices and improved both the route and the commentary, voiced by local radio legends, Steve and Karen from Hits Radio.

The 55-minute trip starts at Central Station and includes St James’ Park, Ouseburn, Newcastle Castle and the Quayside, crossing the iconic Tyne and Swing bridges. 

Toon Tour runs from 3 May until 28 September 2025. Find out more about the timetable and ticket prices for the Toon Tour service here. 

Hiring our open top buses

The open top buses we use for the Toon Tour are available for private hire. Perfect for anyone wanting to celebrate a big win Newcastle United style or if you just fancy a private tour of our beautiful city. Please contact our customer service team for more information about private hire - 0191 420 5050.

Image Gallery: Chester-Le-Street United Girls Parade - Photography by Mark Savage