THERE will be an unprecedented number of police on patrol to combat the threat of organised violence at Wanderers' derby match against Manchester United tomorrow.

About 400 officers will be on duty, significantly higher than for a typical Premiership game.

Police chiefs say they want supporters to enjoy the match but anyone who causes trouble will be dealt with using the full force of the law.

Officers will be deployed across the whole Bolton division, particularly at flash points including the Reebok Stadium, the town centre and the train station.

Pubs across the town have already agreed to open their doors at noon when the match has kicked off and close in the afternoon after the final whistle.

Together with mounted police and motorcyclists, a team of special constables will be joining their uniformed colleagues on patrol.

Undercover plain clothed patrols will mingle with crowds outside the Reebok to try to pinpoint any troublemakers.

Specialised mobile video teams will also be used in key areas to discourage trouble and improve the chances of identifying ring-leaders if fighting does break out.

Match commander Chief Supt Don Brown from Bolton said: "I want everyone to enjoy the game but I will not tolerate any thuggish behaviour before, during or after the match."

Last year, riot police were brought in to stamp out violence in the town centre last January before Wanderers' match against Manchester United.

Twenty fans were arrested and 20 more ejected from the Reebok Stadium during the game.

Chief Supt Brown added: "Some 400 officers will be on duty, substantially higher than for other games.

"It is unprecedented but we are determined that the day should pass off peacefully."