OFFICERS from Greater Manchester Police will be launching a major policing operation on Saturday for the derby game between Manchester United and Manchester City.

Exta police resources, including the force helicopter, the mounted unit and surveillance teams will be working to ensure the game passes without incident. Extra stewards will assist with crowd control.

Match commander Chief Superintendent David Ryder, from Stretford Police Station, said: "Derby games in Manchester are always a major event which many people look forward to and most fans enjoy the rivalry and the whole atmosphere that the game usually creates.

"I know that the majority of fans will be going to the match to watch a great game of football, but there maybe a small number of people who could be intent on causing trouble.

"There are a range of measures in place to deter these people, but we also want to reassure genuine fans and members

of the public through a visible police presence."