Fans warned to expect delays as police beef up stadium security

POLICE chiefs have warned football fans they could face delays getting into stadiums as the new season gets under way, because of increased anti-terror security.

The Premier League campaign begins this evening and police want fans to be alert to the potential threat they could face, after terrorists targeted the Stade de France in Paris in 2015 and the Manchester Arena last year.

Chief Superintendent Nick Aldworth, the national police co-ordinator for protective security, insisted there was no specific threat to football grounds, but pointed out stadiums have become a terror target in recent years. As a result, he is urging fans to be vigilant, to report anything suspicious and to arrive at games early because of security checks.

Fans are also being told to avoid bringing bags as checking them will slow entrance times. Mr Aldworth said: “We know from what we’ve seen on the ground, and also from terrorist rhetoric, that they are interested in attacking crowded places generally.”

Officers have been working with the Premier League, the English Football

‘We want them to think about what they might do in the event of an attack and be really, really vigilant’

League (EFL) and individual clubs to enhance security measures and raise awareness of the terror threat among staff and fans.

Nearly a quarter of a million sports event stewards have been issued with a short guide giving key advice to help protect crowds of spectators.

Mr Aldworth said: “A lot of places will have very overt security like dogs; they will have a policing presence outside, they will have a strong security and stewarding presence on the inside. But, importantly, there will be some covert resources.”

Counter-terror agencies have highlighted the importance of public awareness as they confront a threat seen as unprecedented, following five attacks last year.

There is a growing push from the police and other security services for members of the public to help foil terrorist plots.

Mr Aldworth said fans could play a role in successful security operations.

He said: “We want them to think about what they might do in the event of an attack and we want them to be really, really vigilant.

“And not to be inhibited about reporting stuff to us. If it’s trivial to you, it might be significant to us. Don’t worry about it – just tell us and leave it to us to sort it out.

“This is a partnership between the police, security services and public.”