Police out in force at Portman Rd

Last updated : 01 May 2007 By Michael Morris

Suffolk Police said fans would have to "bear with" delays caused by increased security around Portman Road on Sunday.

Ch Supt Tim Beach said he hoped fans would celebrate "in the right spirit".

The club's chairman, David Sheepshanks, praised fans' calm actions after Leeds supporters stormed the pitch after his team's late equaliser on Saturday.

The game was delayed for half an hour after hundreds of fans took to the pitch following the goal which almost certainly relegated the Yorkshire side.

Mr Sheepshanks told BBC News: "We utterly deplore what happened as, it must be said, do the majority of Leeds United supporters, some of whom have even contacted us to express their regret.

"It was a stark reminder of a past era of football violence that I thought we had managed to leave behind in this country."

Police have warned the public that delays can be expected around Portman Road before and after Sunday's 1300 BST kick-off.

Suffolk police said "firm but fair policing" will be used to ensure safety.

Ch Supt Beach added: "This will be an exciting game for both teams as it's the last game of the season.

"We hope that people celebrate this weekend's match sensibly and in the right spirit."

BBC