Extra police deal with rival fans

Extra police have been drafted in to Carlisle to deal with potential disorder among rival fans as the town's football team takes on Hartlepool.

Recent home games involving Leeds and Milwall saw arrests as violence spread to city centre shopping areas.

But Cumbria Police have warned supporters they face being locked up if any repetition of disorder occurs before or after the Brunton Park clash.

A force spokeswoman promised a "zero tolerance" approach to Tuesday's game.

During Carlisle's home game against Leeds in November, the Cumbria force mounted its largest operation for a football match in 30 years.

Appeal to parents

The spokeswoman said the aim of Tuesday's operation was to increase the police presence and maximise the safety of fans.

She said: "An influx of supporters is part and parcel of having a successful football team in Carlisle.

"We will tackle these issues as usual with a highly visible police presence, with officers working proactively to tackle disorder before it becomes a problem.

"I would appeal to fans from both sides to respect each other at the start of the New Year, and to enjoy the match in the spirit that it is meant by enjoying the sport without anti-social behaviour.

"I would also appeal to parents living in Carlisle to know where their children are during the match.

"It is up to them to ensure that their children do not hang around Brunton Park and Botchergate causing problems and behaving anti-socially."