7:28AM, Mon Feb 20, 2012

Newcastle United Appear To Step Up Stadium Security

By Joe Daunt Location: Newcastle

1 of 5

Picture gallery

Friday night: Security patrols spotted near the wall which had graffiti on

Newcastle United appeared to step up security at their stadium on Friday night.

A security guard was on duty at the wall where on Thursday night 'St James' was daubed onto a wall at the now controversially renamed Sports Direct Arena.

The club told Sky Tyne and Wear that there is always 24 hour security at the ground.

This comes after a Newcastle University business expert called for Virgin Money to buy the naming rights of Newcastle United's stadium and call it St James' Park.

Dr Joanna Berry, Director of Engagement for Newcastle University Business School, said it would be a good move for Sir Richard Branson's company if it secured the naming rights and reverted back to the orginal name.

She said: “If Virgin Money are able to put their hands in their back pockets and rebrand the stadium St James’ Park again they would immediately get new customers.

“They would get the respect and loyalty of the fans for preserving the name of St James’ Park.”

On Thursday signs outside the stadium were rebranded "Sports Direct Arena". Workmen were also seen taking "St James' Park" lettering from the wall outside the ground.

Sky Tyne and Wear revealed how the words "St James'" were daubed on the wall in graffiti just hours after the lettering was removed.

Michael Atkinson, 29, Hareydene, Newbiggin Hall, has been charged with criminal damage and is due to appear at court in March.