A 14-month ban imposed on North East journalists by Newcastle United has finally been lifted.
Journalists from the Newcastle Evening Chronicle and its sister titles The Journal and The Sunday Sun have been prevented from attending press conferences and matches at St James’ Park since October 2013.
The ban came after the club objected to coverage of a supporters’ protest against owner Mike Ashley.
Trinity Mirror North East editor-in-chief Darren Thwaites said: “We’re pleased Newcastle United have restored media access for our titles after resolving our differences in recent talks.”
He added to HTFP that the papers’ coverage “will remain independent”: “We wish United every success, as we always have, but we’ll also be critical if we feel it’s appropriate.”