Incidents ‘kicked off’

by the safety officer, both clubs are represented, as are the stewarding company.

It is an opportunity to discuss all matters relevant to the event, such are previous meetings between the clubs, expected numbers of supporters, ticketing/parking arrangements and any anticipated disorder from known ‘troublemakers’, or those with football banning orders.

On the day of the match I briefed my own officers at 1pm to ensure they are fully aware of their duties. Our briefings focus on our policing priorities, of which safety is always number one. Our remit is greater than just the footprint of the stadium, and our officers, will visit licensed premises and deal with any issues related to that fixture, regardless of where they may occur. During the match I will usually be positioned in the stadium control room, to oversee policing activity and work in conjunction with the safety officer.

Unlike supporters whose team is getting beat, police can’t leave early! The operation concludes when all supporters have left the ground, the local area has returned to normality, and the travelling supporters are on their way home. I had a quick debrief with the safety officer and then a formal de-brief with my officers. This is an opportunity to highlight any issues, or good practice to inform our future policing operations. Pleasingly there were no issues to report at the Hamilton v Hearts fixture.

This week, we have continued target drug dealers within our community.

On September 23 we recovered 19 cannabis plants from an address in Carrick Way, Bothwell. A 34-yearold male has been reported to the Procurator Fiscal in relation to an alleged offence under the Misuse of Drugs Act.

Another 34-year-old will be reported to the Procurator Fiscal for alleged offences under the Misuse of Drugs Act, following a police search under warrant, in Camnethan Street, Stonehouse. A quantity of cocaine and cannabis was recovered.

If you have any information you feel should be reported to the police please contact us using 101, or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.