Ipswich Town and Leeds United fans told to expect firm but fair policing when the teams meet in the Sky Bet Championship next month
Ipswich Town - Credit: Archant
Suffolk police have told fans of Ipswich Town and Leeds United to expect “firm, friendly and fair” policing when the two teams meet on December 6.
Around 2,000 fans of the Yorkshire club are expected to make the journey down to Suffolk with turnstiles and stadium bars opening from 1.30pm.
Policing operations commander, chief inspector Paul Bradford said: “We will be dealing with fans as they would expect to be treated themselves.
“Our policing style will be firm, friendly and fair.
“We have been working closely with our partners during recent weeks, with officers from Suffolk, West Yorkshire and British Transport Police working side-by-side on match day to ensure the smooth running of our policing operation.
“We hope that people enjoy the match sensibly and in the right spirit.
“We will not tolerate anti-social behaviour, violence, racial chanting, mindless vandalism or any alcohol-fuelled disorder.
Most Read
- 1 Mapped: Where parasite dangerous to dogs has been reported in Suffolk
- 2 Train services in Suffolk cancelled after horses escape onto tracks
- 3 'Quietly confident' - Felixstowe Indian restaurant goes alcohol-free
- 4 Plans for flats in former Ipswich pub progress
- 5 Man turned up naked on woman's doorstep after Euros Final
- 6 Severe delays on A14 as lane blocked on Orwell Bridge
- 7 Man found dead as police and fire service called to Ipswich home
- 8 Busy Ipswich road reopens after small sinkhole is repaired
- 9 Why has my car been covered in dust?
- 10 Car seized as driver tries to avoid parking fees at Stansted Airport
“However, we know that the vast majority of fans attending will be there to enjoy the game and we will be there to welcome them.
“Officers will be approachable and are there to ensure the safety of those attending the game and members of the public wishing to go about their normal business.
“People intent on causing disorder can expect to be dealt with in a firm manner.”
Because of the crowds access to Portman Road will be restricted before and during the match, and closed for a short while after it.
There will be fewer spaces available at the Cattle Market car park.
Leeds fans will at least see a familiar face when they visit Portman Road, their striker Noel Hunt having arrived on loan at Ipswich earlier this week.
Going into this weekend’s matches the Blues are sitting in fourth position, 12 places and 11 points above Leeds, who are currently 16th.
