Hitchhiking from Newcastle to Liverpool soon!

[amymoth]

Anyone have any advice/stories for me? I've hitchhiked a few times, but never this sort of distance before. I'm going with a female friend too (It's her first time hitching )

I have two questions, if anyone could answer I'd be very grateful!

1. Does anyone know where near Newcastle/Gateshead truckers stop/what particular day/time? I'm looking to get a lift down the A1 to just before leeds and truckers have been good to me when I've hitched before. I'd like to know if theres a certain petrol/service station they congregate at? Just to boost my chances of getting a lift.

2. Does anyone have any experience of hitching into Liverpool from the north east? Is there anywhere I should avoid/any tips that might help me? Any hitching blackspots?

Any feedback will be much appreciated, happy travelling!