By Aston
September 14 2005

The police commander in charge of this weekend's East Anglian Derby at Portman Road is sending a message to both sets of supporters: “Enjoy the game safely and responsibly.”

Chief Superintendent Geoff Munns: “My aim is to ensure that those attending the match can enjoy it safely - while minimising disruption to people using Ipswich town centre during the course of Sunday.

 

“Both Ipswich and Norwich fans have a positive reputation across the country in terms of behaviour - and I would ask both sets of fans to play their part on Sunday by living up to this good reputation and behaving responsibly.

 

“However, those fans who choose to ignore my request and intend to cause disorder can expect a firm response from the police - and, if they break the law, can expect to be arrested.”

 

“These are the usual arrangements at local derby matches - and, while they may result in some minor delays and restrict movement in the vicinity of the ground, I would ask both sets of fans to bear with us as they are aimed at ensuring everyone's safety, our police arrangements are designed to ensure we have the right resources at our disposal to ensure the safety of fans, local people in Ipswich and clamp-down firmly on any disorder or crime, I hope that Sunday's match is an enjoyable occasion for everyone involved.”

 

Over 200 officers from the Suffolk and Norfolk police forces and the British Transport police will be ensuring there is no real trouble, to help keep trouble to a minimum as normal for derby games the away fans will be asked to remain in their seats after the full time whistle.  

 

Source: Ipswich Town – the official website.

 

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