With the fog on the Tyne clearing a small crowd gathered to see Cambridge United director of football Jez George set off from Newcastle United’s St James’ Park on the opening leg of his 676 mile journey.
The walk, which raises money for the Cambridge United Community Trust, will take him to all 18 English Premier League grounds.
England legend Peter Beardsley (right with George) officially started the walk and despite the early morning drizzle George set off at a brisk pace to get to the Stadium of Light.
George was greeted at the Sunderland stadium by former captain and now senior professional development coach at the club, Kevin Ball.
After taking in the sights and sounds of the Sunderland versus Cardiff City pre match atmosphere, George once again set off into the rain to start the long journey to Hull City where he will arrive on Wednesday.
With with stadiums and 26 miles under his belt the opening day of this four-week venture went well and George is in good shape for Day 2.
The club is asking for donations to be made through its Just Giving page.