Sunderland welcomes Turkish fans

Sunderland welcomes Turkish fans

Leaflets will be given to Turkish fans at the game

Police in north-east England will welcome 5,000 Turkish football fans to the region when they come to cheer on their team.

England play Turkey in a Euro 2004 qualifier at Sunderland's Stadium of Light on Wednesday, 2 April.

Officers from Northumbria Police's community safety department are working with representatives from the Turkish community to ensure visitors have an enjoyable stay.

The North East has a well-established Turkish community, many of whom are looking forward to seeing their country play here and meet up with friends and relatives.

There have been fears that some England hooligans will use the occasion to seek revenge for two Leeds United fans stabbed to death in Istanbul in 2000.

But police have warned potential troublemakers that they are ready to prevent any potential disorder.

Radio messages

Superintendent Jim Campbell, of Northumbria Police, said: "We want to make sure that Turkish football fans get the most out of their visit to the North East, and enjoy not only the football but feel they are welcome in our region.

"We have spoken to local community representatives and officials from Turkish football to make sure we provide fans with all the information they need to help them during their stay."

Before the fans arrive Northumbria Police is sending out messages of welcome and useful information via a London-based Turkish Radio station.

Officers will also be handing out leaflets to Turkish to fans as they arrive, explaining how the game will be policed to ensure public safety.

Interpreter help

Supporters will also be reminded not to wave flags that could obstruct the view of others and that items such as fireworks cannot be brought into the stadium.

Mr Hakan Aslan, secretary of the Turkish Community Association in the North East, said: "We are looking forward to the match and hope that everyone enjoys the occasion."

The Turkish Community Association has been in existence since 1996.

If any fans need help during their stay they can contact a police officer, who can also put them in touch with an interpreter if necessary via the National Interpreting Service.