More than a dozen South Shields fans have been injured as their minibus overturned on the motorway as they travelled home from Tamworth.
Hereford at South Shields in October. Picture: Andy Walkden
Shields were beaten 3-2 at National League North champions Tamworth, but rivals have come together to send their thoughts to the injured fans.
Hereford United Supporters' Trust said on Saturday night: "Everyone should get back home safely from a match.
"Our thoughts are with all South Shields FC supporters and their families this evening."
The Shields Gazette reported that National Highways said a “serious collision involving an overturned vehicle” had closed the A1 near Darrington on Saturday afternoon (April 13).
A total of 17 people were confirmed injured and taken to different hospitals in Yorkshire, with the Yorkshire Air Ambulance in attendance.
In a statement, South Shields said: “Our thoughts go out to the supporters involved in a crash on the way home from today’s game.
“At this moment of time we have no further details, however we hope everyone is safe and recovering.”
Road closures were in place until the early hours of Sunday with emergency services including Yorkshire Air Ambulance in attendance.
Yorkshire Ambulance Service said it was "under extreme pressure" after being called to the incident shortly after 7pm on Saturday.
Footage on social media showed a damaged minibus on its side on the northbound carriageway between junctions 40 and 41.
Yorkshire Ambulance Service told the BBC: "We responded to the incident with a wide range of resources and 17 patients were taken to hospitals in the region."
Hereford FC were among the clubs to comment, saying: "Really sad to read this. Sending our best wishes to you all and we hope everyone involved is OK."
12th placed Scarborough Athletic posted: "We are very sorry to hear this. Sending our best wishes to everyone involved."
Fourth-placed Chorley FC posted on Twitter: "Our thoughts are with the South Shields supporters involved in a crash on their way home from their game this afternoon - hoping everyone returns home safe and sound."
Saturday's opponents Tamworth posted on X, formerly known as Twitter: "We are so sorry to hear about the accident. Our sincere thoughts are with everyone involved and trust everybody makes a full recovery."
Tamworth FC Supporters Club also posted on Facebook on Saturday night: "Our thoughts and prayers go out to the South Shields fans this evening that have been involved in a road accident this evening on their way home."