FOOTBALL fans will notice a visible police presence this weekend as Hereford FC play Salisbury FC at the Ray Mac (3pm).

There have been some concerns about the behaviour of a small minority of Hereford supporters following recent incidents at away games, and some online speculation regarding potential problems at the weekend’s match.

Wiltshire Police Inspector Pete Sparrow and SFC safety officer Martin Staples have issued the following joint statement:

“We welcome HUFC to Salisbury but Wiltshire Police and SFC are committed to ensuring the safety of everybody attending this fixture, so a significant amount of risk assessing and planning has been conducted regarding this match.

“Extra safety stewards and police will be on duty and both SFC and HUFC are committed to deterring disorderly conduct by supporters from either side, and will support prosecution for any offences committed and consider ejections and/or sanctions against people who do not comply with ground conditions of entry and stewards requests."

Inspector Sparrow added: “We will continue to work with both clubs and licensed premises in the city, and there will be a visibly enhanced police presence during the day.

“I would encourage all fans to continue to behave responsibly and if they have any concerns to approach officers or club staff to make them aware.”

Victory for Hereford will see them be crowned Southern League Division One South and West champions, providing Taunton and Tiverton both slip-up.