Rugby League Magic Weekend back in Newcastle

Fans arriving at St James' Park Credit: ITV News

The Super League's Magic Weekend event has returned to St James' Park.

The event was first held in Newcastle last year and saw a record attendance - 67,000 fans across the weekend.

Organisers say Magic Weekend 2015 had a very positive impact on the local economy.

Hotel occupancy rates in Newcastle up 25%, bars & restaurants takings up 40% and with an estimated spend of £4.2m in the city across the weekend.

The 2016 Magic Weekend schedule is as follows:

Saturday May 21

  • 2.30pm – Salford Red Devils v Widnes Vikings

  • 4.45pm – Castleford Tigers v Warrington Wolves

  • 7.00pm – Leeds Rhinos v Wigan Warriors

Sunday May 22

  • 1.00pm – Catalans Dragons v Wakefield Trinity Wildcats

  • 3.15pm – Huddersfield Giants v St Helens

  • 5.30pm – Hull FC v Hull Kingston Rovers