Paddy Whacks opened in style when it hosted a VIP bash, welcoming crowds of revellers, including many from the Emerald Isle.

The bar opened in time to welcome its first batch of Irish fans who flew over to watch the Sunderland AFC and Newcastle United derby.

Seamus Welan, entertainments co-ordinator, said: "Irish airports, Dublin and Cork in particular, were awash with red and white strips at the weekend with a huge group of travelling Sunderland supporters from Ireland arriving for the derby.

"So it couldn't have been a more timely weekend to open Sunderland's only Irish bar, appropriately in Green Terrace.

"It's a modern Irish bar with a traditional Irish welcome, and we are trying to cater for both the Sunderland community and the visiting Irish community that are coming over in the hundreds for SAFC home games."

Paddy Whacks has taken over the former Vision and has undergone a radical revamp.

It will host a range of live music and entertainment, as well as sport.
Seamus added: "Music, not exclusively Irish, and entertainment will feature strongly, particularly at weekends, aiming to be a quality music venue for the city."

The bar will provide a mix of traditional Irish bands with local groups, and on match days, it will be home to the After Match Irish Sessions.

Tonight will see "A hint of Irish" with a quiz and sing-along night.
Tomorrow is Young Guns Night, showcasing young up-and-coming bands and Thursday brings buskers night to the city.

Paddy Whacks will serve up traditional Irish drinks, including Guinness, whiskey and gins, as well as screen Gaelic football and hurling.

It will also be home and provide sponsorship to the University of Sunderland's Gaelic Football Team.

"We aim to give the whole Irish experience and are trying to be authentic," Seamus added.