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Following the result of the EU referendum in June 2016, where Sunderland voted in favour of Brexit by 61.3% to 38.7%, the time is approaching for Britain to leave the European Union.

Residents have had their say about the departure.

While some are happy that “the day is finally here”, others are not so impressed with the decision to leave.

People in Sunderland have their say on Brexit day

Keir Gray argues: “I think the whole country has been conned into thinking that we would benefit from leaving Europe.”

Maureen Lewis said: “It’s worrying, no one knows what is going to happen.”

Melissa Machin commented: “I’m just pleased that it’s over with, I’m sick of hearing about it.”

Not much is set to change straight away, the UK will remain in the single market and the customs union until the end of the year. However some do want to see change happen eventually.

Sunderland resident Melissa Machin said: “I’m just pleased that it’s over with, I’m sick of hearing about it" while Jade Blacklin (right) said: “I voted to leave because I wanted the money that we send to the EU to be invested back into our country" when asked about Brexit day

Sunderland to be lit up red white and blue to mark Brexit Day

Lauren Thuborn said: “I’d like to see changes to the NHS and more jobs created, especially for young people who are leaving school with qualifications.”

Julie Minette agreed: “The job situation in the North East needs to be changed, there isn’t much for young people anymore.”

Jade Blacklin added: “I voted to leave because I wanted the money that we send to the EU to be invested back into our country.”

Sunderland residents have their say on Brexit day. Maureen Lewis (left) said: “It’s worrying, no one knows what is going to happen.” Lauren Thuborn (centre) said she hoped more jobs would be created as a result of the UK leaving the EU on Friday. Julie Minette (right) said: “The job situation in the North East needs to be changed, there isn’t much for young people anymore.”

The NHS was also an issue, with some wanting to see some of the money the UK gives to the EU reinvested into the service.

Karen Trustlove said: “I’d like to see improvements made to the NHS, especially in terms of waiting times. My husband waited ages for a knee operation, it’s just crazy.”

Brexit Day on the 31st January begins the transition phase of Britain’s exit from Europe, during which Boris Johnson will seek agreements with the EU on issues such as trade, international security and the regulation of medicines.

The European Commission has expressed concerns that the timetable is going to be challenging however the Prime Minister has insisted that there will be no extension to the transition period.

"The day is finally here" - Seven things people in Sunderland are saying about the UK leaving the EU