Preparation ahead of East Lancs derby

People in Blackburn are being advised they could see some disruption this weekend as a large policing operation will be in place for the East Lancashire derby.

Blackburn Rovers play Burnley in the Sky Bet Championship on Saturday 24 October at Ewood Park in a 12.30pm kick off.

We are advising people that the traffic will be busy prior to and following the game, particularly in and around the stadium.

Superintendent Julian Platt said:

This is an exciting fixture in this year’s football calendar and there will of course be plenty of friendly rivalry amongst both sets of supporters.

We’ve worked closely with both football clubs in the planning of this week’s match and our aim is to keep people safe and to get people to and from the ground efficiently. Extra officers will be on hand to assist supporters attending the match as well as stewards from both clubs.

With large numbers expected to be attending the game, officers are urging fans to follow some basic crime prevention advice:

• Use safe and secure car parks
• Keep your car locked with nothing valuable on display
• Look after your personal belongings keeping items such as keys, wallets and purses with you at all times in zipped bags or front pockets

We are also keen to stress that officers policing the game will not tolerate anybody causing trouble and will take firm action against anyone behaving in an anti-social or violent manner.

Superintendent Platt added:

It is important to remember very few people attending football matches actually cause problems at the games as most supporters are there as ambassadors for their club and for their sport. I want to reassure people who will be at the game that we will not be letting a minority spoil what should be an occasion for all the family to enjoy.

We will have the resources available on the day to deal with any incidents of damage or disorder and people should also be warned that as well as being dealt with on the day, we will also look to secure banning orders on offenders.”

Fans can follow updates on the Blackburn with Darwen and Burnley Police Facebook pages. Information will also be tweeted from @BurnleyPolice, @BurnleyFCPolice, @BlackburnPolice and @RoversPolice.