Lancashire Police along with two football clubs are urging supporters to enjoy the day and not let "passions spill over" ahead of the big derby match this weekend.

Blackburn Rovers welcome fierce rivals Burnley to Ewood Park for a 12.30pm kick-off in the East Lancashire Derby on Saturday, January 4.

It will be the teams' second Championship meeting of the season after a 1-1 draw at Turf Moor in August and is set to be hotly contested with Rovers sat seventh and the Clarets in second spot.

Supporters are able to make their way to the match independently but there is no designated away pub in Blackburn, so Burnley fans arriving early will be directed to the ground in time for the turnstiles opening at 11am.

Police said they want to reassure residents and fans from both clubs there is a significant police operation taking place across East Lancashire, with specialist officers, including police dogs, the mounted section, investigation teams, and aerial support.

As well as a significant police presence in Blackburn, there will be resources across the rest of the area, including Burnley, Darwen, Hyndburn, the Ribble Valley, Pendle, and Rossendale.

British Transport Police will also have resources on the rail networks supporting those travelling to and from the match.

A statement from Lancashire Police said: "The vast majority of fans wish to watch the match and support their team.

"However, for those few who may be intent on committing offences, whether inside or away from the stadium, they should expect to be arrested on the day or await a knock on the door from our officers.

"With this in mind, we would urge only fans with tickets to turn up to the stadium. Any away fan located in any of the home end stands can expect to be directed to leave the stadium."

Supt Derry Crorken, silver commander for the fixture, added: “We know this is a significant occasion in the East Lancashire footballing calendar and the game that both sets of supporters look forward to the most, particularly with both clubs performing well in the Championship.

“I know that there will be a bumper crowd for this fixture and the overwhelming majority of fans want to passionately support their team.

"I would just ask that people enjoy the atmosphere and occasion without letting their passions overspill into disorderly behaviour.

“With the game once again being broadcast live on Sky Sports both sets of supporters will also be representing their clubs and East Lancashire football on the national stage. Please don’t be the person that lets your club down.”

The last time Burnley visited Ewood Park was when they clinched promotion back to the Premier League in April 2023.

Rovers have not won against their arch-rivals in 10 games stretching back to 2010.

The match is being shown live on Sky Sports.