Police are urging fans to enjoy tonight’s match between Heart of Midlothian FC and Celtic FC responsibly.
Kick-off is at 7.45pm and those attending are asked to plan their journey in advance and arrive at the stadium in plenty of time.
An appropriate police presence will be in place in and around Tynecastle this evening to keep the public safe and deter criminal activity and other offences.
During recent matches across the country there has been an increase in the number of spectators bringing flares and other pyrotechnics into stadiums.
Officers are issuing a warning to those attending tonight’s game that possession and use of these items won’t be tolerated.
A specialist sniffer dog will also be utilised to detect flares and fireworks and anyone found with these will not be allowed entry to the ground and may face further police action.
Chief Inspector Bob Paris, Match Commander for tonight’s game said: “We will have a number of resources deployed during the match to assist stewarding staff and ensure the safety of both sets of fans.
“Please remember that alcohol will not be permitted inside the stadium and we will work with stewards to carry out searches of those entering the ground.
“As part of these searches we will also be on the lookout for anyone in possession of fireworks of flares following a number of recent incidents at Scottish football matches.
“This behaviour is dangerous and can cause serious injury and panic in a crowded environment. The Football clubs don’t want it and don’t want their reputation tarnished by a few foolish individuals calling themselves supporters.
“If you are one found in possession of any illegal or illicit materials you will be arrested and reported to the Procurator Fiscal.”
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
