Large policing operation for Shrewsbury V Walsall
A large policing operation will assist Shrewsbury Town Football Club's stewarding of Sunday's all-ticket local derby with Walsall.
The League One fixture kicks off at 3.30pm and is being featured on national television by Sky.
Shrewsbury Town are anticipating one of their biggest crowds in recent years with around 7,000 fans expected.
Police will be on duty inside the stadium, as well as on the approaches, supporting the club's usual security and safety stewarding measures.
Officers will also be patrolling the town centre and are working closely with licensees using the Shrewsbury Pubwatch scheme to help counter any risk of disorder at local pubs.
Chief Inspector Dave McWilliam, who will be in charge of the police operation, said: "It's a local derby and with a big crowd expected, there will be a high profile police presence aimed at assisting the club to steward fans in and around the stadium.
"We will also be highly visible in and around the town, including at pubs and other locations such as the railway station, where large numbers of people may gather."
He said the police objective was to support Shrewsbury Town in ensuring supporters of both clubs could attend in safety and comfort to enjoy the football.
"There is always the potential for disorder on these occasions but our aim is minimise this risk and to tackle any outbreaks quickly and robustly.
"Public order offences will not be tolerated. Anyone attending intent on trying to cause trouble is likely to be arrested, charged and put before the courts. Banning orders will also be sought to prevent troublemakers attending all future football matches.
"Our own officers will be joined by ‘spotters' from West Midlands Police so we will be able to identify known troublemakers. We will not allow a small minority to spoil it for genuine supporters."
Chief Inspector McWilliam said the police would also support Shrewsbury's policy of searching fans as they enter the ground.
"It's important people travel in good time and arrive at the stadium early. Don't leave it late or you might miss the beginning of the game.
"I would also stress it is an all-ticket game. No tickets will be sold on match day. Walsall has a ticket allocation of 1,400 which we expect to be sold out. But if you have not got a ticket there is no point travelling - you will not be allowed in."
He added that further information, including travel and parking arrangements, could be found on the Shrewsbury and Walsall club websites.
