EXTRA patrols will be deployed across Bolton on Saturday for Wanderers' clash with Manchester United.

Hundreds of officers will be on duty before and after the derby game at the Reebok Stadium, which kicks off at 3pm.

Uniformed patrols will be supported by colleagues from the mounted division, as well as motorcyclists and special constables.

A mobile CCTV unit will be filming supporters to discourage any disorder and as evidence if any scuffles break out.

Police will be keeping a close eye on flashpoint areas where trouble could break out - outside the ground, in the town centre and at railway stations.

A team of plain-clothes "spotters" will also mingle with supporters and help to identify any ringleaders.

Most pubs are expected to keep their doors closed voluntarily during the afternoon because licensees do not want any trouble breaking out on their premises.

Those that remain open will be operating strict admission policies.

Supporters are being urged to use public transport to get to the Reebok because of roadworks in place in the surrounding area.

Police chiefs are not expecting any problems but have issued a plea for fans from both sides to behave themselves - or face the consequences.

Match commander Dave Lea, head of Bolton Police, said: "It is one of the biggest matches of the football season so far and we want everyone to enjoy the game. There should be a good atmosphere inside and outside the ground.

"But we won't tolerate any bad behaviour and anyone convicted of causing trouble could find themselves being made subject to football banning orders.

"The police approach will be firm but fair, but above all friendly. I would also like to warn fans not to turn up at the ground without tickets because they will not get in.

"I would advise people to use public transport. Although the road works are being lifted over the weekend by agreement with the local authority, there will still be some delays."

In January, when the teams last met at the Reebok, there were six arrests for public order offences and a further five people were ejected from the ground.