HUNDREDS of soccer fans will be under close observation as they use trains to get to today’s big soccer derby in Huddersfield.
And the message to both Town and Leeds United fans was clear: “we will not accept bad behaviour”.
British Transport Police are planning a major operation to deal with hundreds of fans using the rail network this weekend for the game at the John Smith’s Stadium.
Officers also warned that those who engage in anti social behaviour whilst travelling to and from the match will be dealt with “robustly”.
Insp Pete Kooper, of BTP, said: “BTP officers will be on board trains alongside travelling fans to ensure the day goes as smoothly as possible for all passengers and rail staff.
“Match days are a great day for football fans with an incredible atmosphere at train stations. Officers will be helping everyone to enjoy it, as well as helping to ensure everyone travels to and from the game safely.
“Whilst we appreciate the high spirits before and after the game, we want to remind fans that trains can be busy with other passengers including families with children, in particularly at this time of year where people are Christmas shopping and visiting friends and relatives.
“We do not want to see any intimidating or anti-social behaviour from the minority who may be intent on spoiling the day for others and we are asking fans to keep this in mind when at stations and on trains and to moderate their language and behaviour.
“We have recently launched Operation Kenya which will run throughout December to target these so called fans and take action against those who cause problems before, during or after football matches.
“We will be targeting known trouble makers who attach themselves to football, and will be operating a zero tolerance approach to any criminal or anti social behaviour committed by them.”
Fans will also be greeted by a huge police presence in the town centre and on routes to and from the stadium.
It is one of West Yorkshire Police’s biggest football policing operations.
