March 13, 2018 10.54 am This story is over 78 months old

Extra police on duty for Lincoln City’s derby clash with Grimsby

Imps derby clash against rivals Grimsby.

Additional police officers will be on duty for Lincoln City’s derby clash against rivals Grimsby Town on Saturday at Sincil Bank (1pm kick-off).

The two sides played out a goalless draw in the reverse fixture at Blundell Park in September, while Grimsby’s last visit to Sincil Bank also ended level in a 1-1 draw back in August 2015.

Lincolnshire Police Assistant Chief Constable Shaun West said: “The Grimsby match is always a great spectacle with two groups of fans supporting their teams in a fantastic local derby.

“As with the majority of home games, we will have additional officers on duty to assist matchgoers in enjoying the day.

“We work very closely with Lincoln City Football Club to ensure that home games are staged as safely as possible and will continue to do so.”

A history of incidents

In Grimsby’s last fixture – at home against Port Vale – violence broke out at Blundell Park the away fans reportedly tried to enter the ground.

Around 25-30 fans allegedly threw punches and kicks at stewards and the Grimsby fans behind them inside the ground and supporters of the two sides began attacking each other before the final whistle was blown.

In September 2017 three people were arrested following reports of disorderly behaviour by Lincoln City fans after the defeat against Notts County.

British Transport Police officers escorted Lincoln fans back to the city by train after the incident at Nottingham railway station.

Drunk and disorderly Grimsby fans abused two women on a train before a match in December 2017, throwing beer cans at a grandmother and her teenage granddaughter.

Four local men were arrested over another football-related disorder after the Imps’ 3-2 win over Grimsby back in 2014, while a steward was knocked to the floor after a chair was thrown.

Other incidents have occurred over the years, but hopefully Saturday’s match will be remembered just for the football.