Police prepare to welcome thousands of Leeds United fans to the area for Monday’s game against Boro at The Riverside

Cleveland Police will welcome thousands of Leeds United football fans for the Middlesbrough v Leeds match at The Riverside Stadium on Monday 22 April.

Police and partner agencies have been working closely with Middlesbrough FC and Leeds United FC to plan for this large-scale event with the aim of ensuring that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time at the match.

This planning helps Cleveland Police along with our partners to minimise disruption to members of the public and ensure that those attending the game can do so safely.

People in Middlesbrough can expect to see a large police presence in the town centre and stadium area, with officers engaging with fans and members of the public to reassure our communities and support and direct fans arriving for the match and leaving after the game. We are being supported by colleagues from Northumbria Police, British Transport Police, Durham Police, and volunteers from Cleveland Police’s Special Constabulary who will be deployed throughout the operation.

Match Commander Superintendent Darren Bainbridge said: “With around 32,000 people expected to attend the game, we know it will be a busy day in Middlesbrough and recognise the majority of supporters will come to the game to enjoy the match, watch their teams and behave in a responsible manner for which I’d like to thank them in advance.

“Football can generate strong emotions and a small minority of people will use this as an excuse to get involved in disorder and criminality.

"I would caution anyone who is intent on attending the fixture for these reasons that offences will be dealt with robustly. Club and Local CCTV will be utilised along with Police Drones and Football Officers to identify offenders, and pyrotechnic detection dogs are being deployed for those attempting to bring such items to the fixture. Any person who engages in these offences will be refused entry and may find themselves subject of a banning order and a criminal prosecution.

“Ultimately, we just want to make sure that everyone can attend safely, enjoy the game in a fun and friendly atmosphere and make it home safely afterwards. Our officers are there to ensure this is the case, so please do approach and engage with them if you require assistance or advice.”

Please follow Cleveland Police on Facebook and Twitter @ClevelandPolice for updates throughout the day.

Anyone with information regarding disorder or criminality associated with football is asked to report this to Cleveland Police on 101 or call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.