A carnival atmosphere is being planned in Sunderland for the forthcoming Europea

A carnival atmosphere is being planned in Sunderland for the forthcoming European Qualifier between England and Turkey at the Stadium of Light on Tuesday 2nd April.

Sunderland City Council, Metro Radio and Nationwide are planning a number of activities to generate a party atmosphere and welcome the thousands of fans who are expected to arrive in the City from across the world.

Street entertainers including Giant Street Walkers, a Dixieland Jazz Band and a Ceilidh Band will be in Market Street and High Street West on the afternoon of the game.

Meanwhile, next to the Stadium of Light on the Mill Audi forecourt, Metro FM will be broadcasting a roadshow from 6.00pm. Featuring a football related quiz and music as well as giveaways, the roadshow will get the crowds ready to cheer their teams on.

Fans enjoying the music from the roadshow can also try their luck on the Nationwide Hotshots penalty shoot out, which tests the strength of a persons shot.

In addition, a number of face painters will be creating patriotic designs on supporters faces.

Chris Alexander, Head of Culture and Tourism at Sunderland City Council said: "This is probably the biggest football game that will be played in this region this year and it is a tremendous honour that Sunderland has been chosen to host it.

"With thousands of fans arriving in the City from all over the world we wanted to give them a real Sunderland welcome and create a party atmosphere prior to the kick off."

Sunderland City Council has also decked the City out in red and white, the colours of both teams in preparation for the game. Banners have been hung from lampposts throughout the City Centre and the roundabout next to the Stadium of Light has been given patriotic flowerbeds.