Police begin security operation ahead of World Cup game

Police in South Belfast have begun the final stages of their preparations for Wednesday's big game between Northern Ireland and England at Windsor Park.

Around 14,000 fans are expected to attend the World Cup qualifier including over 1,000 fans from England.

Detectives in the south of the city said they are working in partnership with a number of local agencies to ensure that the event passes off safely, and with counterparts in England to monitor supporters travelling to Belfast.

Superintendent Ken Eccles said he was confident the game would pass off peacefully.

"We hope that everyone will enjoy the game and the operational police strategy for the event reflects this hope," he said. "That said, I wish to send a clear message to all fans attending the match that hooliganism or misconduct of that nature will not be tolerated and police resources will be available to firmly deal with such behaviour."

Local police will be accompanied on the ground by officers from England who will operate in a liaison capacity. Their main role will be to act as 'spotters' in the event that there is any disorder, real or anticipated, on the part of England fans.

This is in keeping with international protocol and has been successfully tried and tested throughout Europe and further afield.

(MB/SP)