A WARNING has been issued to football fans by Hereford police ahead of this weekend's FA Cup match between Hereford United and Cardiff City.

Officers have urged fans to have an enjoyable but trouble-free time ahead of the match - but have vowed they will not tolerate anti-social behaviour.

There will be a highly-visible police presence in and around the city to deal robustly with any troublemakers out to spoil the event for genuine football fans.

Chief Inspector Shane Hancock, of Hereford Police, said officers would not be out to stop people having fun but said they would deal robustly with anyone causing a problem.

He said: "The vast majority of people who will be turning out to enjoy the match are genuine football fans who simply want to enjoy the match. However we know that there may also be a very small minority intent on causing disorder.

"The message to them is simple - we will not tolerate any such behaviour as it not only spoils the atmosphere for the genuine fans, but also for the residents in the area around the ground and members of the public using the city centre.

"Although the two clubs have not met for a number of years, there has been a previous history of anti-social behaviour around this fixture.

"As a result there will be a highly-visible police presence, with more than 100 officers on duty, including dog handlers and officers trained in public order duties to ensure that the genuine supporters can attend and watch the game in safety.

"Anyone who is responsible for disorder on match day can expect to be dealt with robustly and, where appropriate, will be put before the courts.

"We will also not hesitate to make applications for Football Banning Orders in more serious cases."

Police are also reminding both sets of supporters that Sunday's match is an advance ticket-only affair and tickets will not be available to buy at the ground on match day.

Those with tickets are advised to arrive in plenty of time as a large crowd is expected - those without a ticket are strongly urged to stay away.