Police determined to stop troublemakers at tomorrow's Mansfield Town game

Officers have been working closely with Notts County FC to identify the source of last year’s disorder and employ new techniques to prevent it happening again.

They include:

-A more robust search policy with a particular emphasis on preventing smoke canisters from being taken into the ground

-Stewards taking a proactive approach towards assisting supporters to their allocated seats as all tickets will show a specific row and seat number. Those occupying incorrect seats will be requested to move and failure to comply with this may result in ejection from the ground

-Bringing kick-off time forward to 12.15pm

-Increased policing inside and outside the grounds

-Preventing away fans from accessing licensed premises in Mansfield prior to kick-off

Chief Superintendent Mark Holland of Nottinghamshire Police said: ‘The behaviour of some Notts County fans last year was very poor.

“Since then, we have worked closely with the club to identify those who caused the trouble resulting in club bans and court prosecutions.

“Also, there are a number of fans who are banned from matches as part of their bail conditions.

“This follows a significant investigation into public disorder in Nottingham city centre after another match at home to Exeter.

“We would say to anyone attending the game on Saturday to enjoy themselves but not to drink to excess.”

Mark Huckerby, head of operations at Notts County FC, said: “We have had a number of issues at some games, including the Mansfield away fixture, in which a small group of our supporters seem intent on creating problems.

“We have worked hard with the police in an attempt to resolve this and a number of these individuals have now been banned.

“This will hopefully make the matchday experience a better one for the rest of our fans. We will continue to monitor this to ensure our fans enjoy their matchdays.”

Nott County Manager John Sheridan added: “I and everyone at the club understands the importance of this fixture to our fans, and their support will be greatly appreciated on the day. All I ask is that our supporters abide by the ticketing policy and ground regulations, which are in place to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable matchday experience.”