Police Commander's safety message ahead of East Lancs Derby

It’s the East Lancashire football derby this weekend, and Lancashire Police, Blackburn Rovers and Burnley Football Clubs are urging supporters to enjoy the day without letting passions spill over.

Blackburn Rovers host Burnley FC at Ewood Park on Saturday (kick-off 12.30pm).

Similar to previous games, supporters are free to make their way to the stadium independently.

There is no designated away fans pub, so any Burnley fans turning up early in Blackburn town centre will be directed to the ground in time for turnstiles opening at 11am.

A statement from Lancashire Police said: ‘’We want to reassure residents and fans from both clubs there is a significant police operation taking place across East Lancashire, with specialist officers, including police dogs, the mounted section, investigation teams, and aerial support.  

‘’As well as a significant police presence in Blackburn, we will have resources across the rest of East Lancashire, including Burnley, Darwen, Hyndburn, the Ribble Valley, Pendle and Rossendale.

‘’Our BTP colleagues will also have resources on the rail networks supporting the safe travel of rail users and fans travelling to and from the fixture.

‘’ We will continue working with both football clubs, the North West Ambulance Service, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, The English Football League, British Transport Police (BTP), local authorities, as well as other partners, up to and on the day of the fixture.

‘’The vast majority of fans wish to watch the match and support their team.  However, for those few who may be intent on committing offences, whether inside or away from the stadium, they should expect to be arrested on the day or await a knock on the door from our officers.

 ‘’With this in mind, we would urge only fans with tickets to turn up to the stadium.  Any away fan located in any of the home end stands can expect to be directed to leave the stadium.

Supt Derry Crorken, who is Silver Commander for the fixture, said: “We know this is a significant occasion in the East Lancashire footballing calendar and the game that both sets of supporters look forward to the most, particularly with both clubs performing well in The Championship.

“I know that there will be a bumper crowd for this fixture and the overwhelming majority of fans want to passionately support their team. I would just ask that people enjoy the atmosphere and occasion without letting their passions overspill into disorderly behaviour.

“With the game once again being broadcast live on Sky Sports both sets of supporters will also be representing their clubs and East Lancashire football on the national stage. Please don’t be the person that lets your club down.”