FOOTBALL fans are being reminded of police safety advice as Blackburn Rovers play their final home game of the season.

Rovers will play Aston Villa in The Championship on Saturday (April 29) from 3pm.

Thousands of fans are expected at the 31,000-capacity stadium, with police calling on all supporters to enjoy the occasion.

Chief Insp Johnathon Bullas, of Lancashire Police, said: “Saturday marks the final home game of the season for Blackburn Rovers and we want everyone associated with the club to enjoy an exciting match against Aston Villa.

“We’ve worked closely with officials at Rovers in planning this weekend’s fixture and extra officers will be on hand to assist supporters attending the game.

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“From my experience the vast majority of Rovers fans are great ambassadors for their club and their sport. We want them to enjoy a great atmosphere and act responsibly.”

With large numbers expected to be attending the game, officers are urging fans to follow some basic crime prevention advice:

•           Use safe and secure car parks

•           Keep your car locked with nothing valuable on display

•           Look after your personal belongings keeping items such as keys, wallets and purses with you at all times in zipped bags or front pockets.

We are also keen to stress that officers policing the game will not tolerate anybody causing trouble and will take firm action against those who chose to behave in a disruptive, anti-social or violent manner.

Chief Insp Bullas added: “We will have resources available on the day to deal with any incidents and assist the club.

“As always we want this to be a family occasion for all the family to safely enjoy the game and we will deal appropriately with any behaviour that could spoil this.”

As is normal on match days, traffic will be busy prior to and following the game, particularly in and around the stadium.

Fans can follow updates on the Blackburn with Darwen Facebook page.

Information will also be tweeted from @BlackburnPolice and @RoversPolice.