The derby match between Wrexham FC and Chester FC will kick off at 1pm on Saturday, March 7, it has been confirmed.

The all-ticket Racecourse clash has been designated as a “bubble match” for the second successive season, meaning all away fans must travel on officially organised supporters’ coaches.

A total of 1,200 tickets have been allocated to Chester fans for the eagerly-anticipated Vanrama Conference fixture.

The two clubs along with Cheshire Constabulary and North Wales Police say the controversial travel restrictions, which were also in place when Wrexham travelled to the Swansway Chester Stadium earlier in the season, are designed to keep fans safe and minimise disruption to local communities.

A joint statement released today said: “Following on from meetings held between Wrexham and Chester Football Clubs, North Wales Police and Cheshire police in July 2014 it was decided then that both games between the clubs this season would – in the interests of safety – be all ticket matches with away fans travelling to the game on officially organised supporters’ coaches.

“For the forthcoming Wrexham FC versus Chester FC game on Saturday, March 7, a kick-off time of 1pm has also been agreed.

“In total 1,200 tickets have been allocated to Chester supporters for this game, the clubs will be announcing the detailed ticketing arrangements in due course on their websites.

“These measures are intended to help to make the event safe and enjoyable for everyone, whilst minimising any potential disruption to local communities, businesses and the general public.

“Planning for the fixture continues, involving both clubs along with North Wales and Cheshire police and other agencies.”

The decision to make both of this season’s derby clashes bubble matches has been met with a backlash from both sets of supporters.

A petition was launched back in July last year by Dragons fans Andy Pierce – signed by nearly 1,000 people – calling for the “draconian” restrictions to be lifted when Wrexham faced Chester in the corresponding fixture across the border in September.

Four Chester football fans were charged with public order offences amid allegations of offensive chanting during that game, which Chester won 2-1.

Last month, Wrexham Town Inspector Paul Wycherley admitted he wanted the derby clash at the Racecourse to be downgraded from bubble match status to a normal game in the future.

But added that it will only happen when police intelligence says it is safe to do so.