Armed police in a show of force at the cup final
THE Scottish Cup Final was protected by a ring of armed police in a bristling show of force.
Hundreds of officers were deployed to Hampden Park as around 50,000 fans descended on the stadium.
Both Celtic and Aberdeen fans were in high spirits, with the streets surrounding the stadium a sea of red and green. Children and parents, groups of friends and lifelong football fans came together to watch the game, singing songs and chants.
But despite the festival atmosphere, many spectators were still concerned about safety and some fans looked shocked seeing armed officers with large assault rifles as they made their way towards the turnstiles.
Along with armed cops, mounted officers on horseback and security teams also surrounded the stadium – a security operation thought to be greater than that provided for the Commonwealth Games in 2014.
Most fans told the Sunday Post they were pleased at the increased police presence, but some were taken aback at seeing them armed.
John McKenna, 43, a salesman form Falkirk said: “I thinks it’s good they have got more security, 100%. My daughter is here too so I’m very glad they have upped the security and it feels safer.”