POLICE are urging Burnley fans to use specially chartered coaches to ferry them to the game against Rovers next month in a bid to keep trouble at a minimum.

The first clash between the rivals for 17 years last December was marred after violence broke out involving Clarets supporters in Burnley town centre after their team's 2-0 defeat.

But police said the situation could have been worse if not for coaching arrangements which took the away fans to and from Turf Moor. And they have urged Clarets supporters to use the same scheme when the teams meet again at Ewood Park on April 1.

Supt David Mallaby said: "Both clubs would acknowledge that the arrangements contributed significantly for a good day out for a lot of people, made them feel safe and reduced the potential for problems. Almost identical arrangements will be made next time. I think both clubs have been extremely successful in the way they have gone about this."

But Mr Mallaby warned: "There will be more fans going to Blackburn than Turf Moor because of the capacity of the ground. Logistically it's more of a problem for them but they are committed to building on last time."

A convoy of 100 coaches organised by the club and with police escorts will ferry Burnley fans to Ewood Park dropping them off directly into the Darwen End. The coaches will pick them up from the same spot for the return journey.

Despite the rivalry of the East Lancashire clubs and the trouble which followed the last meeting in March police and officials are keen to promote the game as a family event.

A spokesman for Burnley Football Club said "We need to make sure it's a credit to supporters and the communities of both Burnley and Blackburn."

Tom Finn, secretary of Blackburn Rovers, said 5,600 Burnley fans were expected at the game.

Free parking at Fulledge Recreation Ground is available for those who need to travel to Turf Moor by car. The coaches will take them from the North Stand Car Park to Ewood Park. There is a £4 charge to cover the cost of the coaches.