Police vow to deal with football hooligans intent on causing trouble at Chorley v Chester FC match

Jan 30 2012 by Gary Porter, Chester Chronicle

LANCASHIRE police have vowed to deal with any hooligans intent on causing trouble during Saturday’s match between Chorley and Chester FC.

When the Blues visited Victory Park last season, innocent Chester fans – including women, children and pensioners – were the victims of a frenzied attack by a mob of Chorley supporters.

Blues fans were trying to make their way back to their cars and coaches when they were ambushed on a park adjacent to the stadium.

Both sets of supporters had clashed before and during the game, which Chester won 1-0.

Police are warning troublemakers they will not be tolerated as they aim to avoid a repeat of last season’s violence.

Chester FC have been given an allocation of 1,000 tickets, with more than 600 sold so far. Supporters are being urged to arrive early with the match kicking off at 1pm.

Match Commander Inspector Steve Evans said: “It is one of the biggest games of the season for Chorley and I know everyone is really looking forward to it.

“We have worked closely with both Chorley Football Club and local licensees and there will be a policing operation in place on the day in and around the ground as well as the town centre with the main aim being that everyone can enjoy the game safely.

“There were some incidents of disorder when the two teams played each other last season and there will be a police presence at the ground.

“Anyone who is looking to cause trouble should be warned that it will not be tolerated. The vast majority of people want to enjoy the game and do not need mindless idiots spoiling it for them.

“I would also urge people attending the game to make sure they take the necessary crime prevention measures like keeping valuables safe and cars locked. We don’t want to give criminals that opportune moment to pounce.”