The new top police officer for Angus has warned against unruly behaviour at either of the county’s football derbies on Saturday.
Montrose host Arbroath and Brechin welcome Forfar at Links Park and Glebe Park, and Tayside Division officers will help stewards keep the games safe.
Chief Inspector David McIntosh, the local area commander for Angus, said all four teams are looking forward to “good-natured fun” but disorder and pyrotechnics “will not be tolerated”.UPDATE: Brechin v Forfar postponed due to waterlogged pitchHe said: “Angus has a well-supported football community and there are a number of young fans following these clubs, who will be looking forward to watching the matches this weekend…
“Be in no doubt, we will be looking out for any signs of disorder, assisting stewards with searches and identifying prohibited items.
“Those found committing offences will be banned from future matches by the clubs and where appropriate, you may be arrested.
“Please do not think that if you are in a group and you cause disorder that you will not be traced…
“Please come along to these matches to enjoy the game.”
Montrose FC Chairman Derek Sim said the club has “a very strong stance” on anti-social behaviour.
He added: “We look forward to welcoming Arbroath to Links Park on Saturday and I hope both sets of fans create a good sporting atmosphere.”
The chairman of Arbroath FC, John Christison, said his club will take “decisive action” against anyone found with pyrotechnics.
“Arbroath FC have been working alongside Montrose FC and Police Scotland to ensure that all supporters attending Saturday’s match at Links Park enjoy what promises to be an exciting game of football,” he said.
“I would like to take this opportunity to remind all supporters to be on their best behaviour and not to bring any type of pyrotechnic device to the game.
“These items are extremely dangerous and Arbroath FC will take decisive action if any Arbroath supporter is found in possession of such a device at Saturday’s game.
“As there is likely to be a significant number of Arbroath supporters travelling to the game, I would remind supporters to arrive at Links Park in plenty of time to ensure admission before the game kicks off.”
Brechin City chairman Ken Ferguson said the club is “looking forward” to welcoming Forfar fans and wished all “a happy, safe and enjoyable New Year.”