THE first Blackburn Rovers and Burnley derby of the season takes place this weekend — and police are taking precautions to ensure it passess safely.

The clubs will clash in the Masters Football veterans competition in front of 10,000 at the MEN arena in Manchester and the Sky TV Cameras.

Masters events are known as friendly, family days out and those are the expectations for Saturday.

But as a precaution, Lancashire police chiefs are sending its football intelligence officers to the ground.

They know the hooligans connected to both clubs and will be on the lookout to ensure no troublemakers tarnish the event.

Chief Inspector Terry Woods, from Lancashire police, said: “We have been working closely with our colleagues from Greater Manchester Police to ensure people can attend and enjoy a great day out watching football.

"Lancashire Football Intelligence Officers will be present at the event to support our Greater Manchester colleagues.”

A spokeswoman for GMP confirmed the competition has been categorised the same priority as pop concerts at the stadium and no trouble is expected.

North Lancashire Rovers Supporters’ Club committee member Gary Crowcroft, 43, said: "Nobody wants to lose to Burnley and in whatever match the teams meet I desperately want the victory. There are idiots in every group of supporters but this event will be light hearted and I would be shocked if there was any problems."

Chairman of Burnley supporters group the Colne Clarets, Alan Beecroft, 56, agreed: "It is always a charged occasion when we play Blackburn but this game will be a family affair free from crowd disturbances."

An arena spokesman said: "For years we have welcomed Manchester City, United, Liverpool and Blackburn fans without the need to segregate, and we have no reason to believe that Burnley's addition to the tournament will spoil the party atmosphere.

"However, our stewards are highly professional and will be in a position to respond appropriately if the excitement gets the better of any supporters."

Manchester United, Manchester City, Bolton Wanderers and Oldham Athletic are also playing in the six-a-side competition.

Tickets are still available for the show which runs from 8pm-11pm. For more details call 0844 847 8000.