ALL Wanderers fans will be searched by French police when they travel to Marseille for a vital game in the club's first season of European competition.

Groups of 400 fans at a time will be shepherded into a warehouse known in Marseille as 'The Hangar' where they will be individually searched.

It is part of a strict security plan drawn up by French police preparing for the UEFA Cup tie between Olympique Marseille and Wanderers next month.

Alcohol will be banned at the game and bottles of any kind, including water, and cans, bags and umbrellas will be confiscated as supporters are frisked.

Chief Supt Dave Lea, head of Bolton Police, travelled to France earlier this month to examine the arrangements.

He said: "Fans will have a great time, the atmosphere will be magnificent - but be aware that the police will be very firm.

"The police stance might seem very tough but when you see their fans, you will know why.

"Marseille has one of the biggest followings in Europe. There are nine different supporters clubs."

More than 3,000 Wanderers supporters are expected to travel to France for the game, which kicks off at 7.45pm British time, on Thursday February 23.

It is the second game of a two-legged tie. The clubs meet at the Reebok Stadium earlier in February.

Marseille was the scene of appalling football violence when English and Tunisian fans clashed during two days of pitched battles during the World Cup in 1998.

Since then, police there have taken a zero tolerance approach to football-related disorder.

Marseillle's Stade Vlodrome, which has a 60,000 capacity, is bowl shaped and Bolton supporters have been allocated tickets in one of the corner sections of the North East stand.

There will be a large police presence at the game and the search operation will be carried out before anyone is allowed into the ground.

As the Bolton fans arrive, they will be shepherded into the warehouse, which is at the side of the stadium.

There are no toilet facilities in 'The Hangar' and anything that could be used as an offensive weapon will be confiscated.

It is expected to take around 50 minutes from arrival for Bolton fans to get into the stadium and supporters are being warned not to take out any frustrations on the police.The seats are uncovered and travellers are being advised to take warm waterproof clothing.

Fans will be held back after the game for up to 45 minutes while Marseille supporters are cleared.

A spokesman for Bolton Wanderers said: "There will be a large police presence in operation for the match. This is normal procedure for Olympique's Marseille's domestic fixtures.

"There is a wide choice of bars and restaurants in the old port area. but do not drink excessively as supporters under the influence of alcohol will not gain entry to the stadium.

"Do not purchase tickets in Marseille as these are often forgeries which will not pass through the Olympique Marseille barcoded entry system.

"There are areas of Marseille which are best avoided, the Northern District (quarters nord) and La Camebiere, the main street that runs up from the Old Port."

"Bolton supporters need to be aware of the process they will have to go through before they are allowed inside the stadium.

"Searches take 50 minutes, so I would advise people to arrive at least two hours before kick off. Be aware of pickpockets and keep your passport secure at all times."