West Midlands Police will implement a ‘counter-terrorism strategy’ as they prepare for Aston Villa’s UEFA Champions League clash with Celtic on Wednesday night, residents have been informed.
A letter to local residents, which has since been published on social media, reads that “these measures have been implemented as part of our counter-terrorism strategy and have been carefully planned in consultation with governing bodies to ensure the safety and security of all attendees and residents.”
“We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience these changes may cause and appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to deliver a safe and secure event,” it continues.
It is understood that the measures come as authorities strive to avoid a repeat of Rangers’ trip to Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League earlier this season, which saw hundreds of Scottish fans snag tickets in the home areas at Old Trafford.
Embed from Getty ImagesAston Villa have warned supporters that they could face bans or have their season tickets revoked if they are found to be reselling tickets to Celtic fans, and confirmed that details will be passed to West Midlands Police if tickets are found to be resold illegally.
A club statement read: “Aston Villa would like to remind all supporters attending Wednesday’s Champions League fixture against Celtic that tickets purchased for home areas via Aston Villa are for Aston Villa supporters only. All GA [general admission] tickets have been purchased with an Aston Villa booking history and will be fulfilled digitally, sent to a registered email address.”
“Tickets are sold for the sole use of the individual named on the ticket and the club does not permit them to be resold. Any fans found to be forwarding their ticket for use by visiting supporters will be prevented from purchasing tickets for the rest of the season at least.”
“For clarity, this also includes the resale of tickets on secondary ticketing platforms who only seek to inflate the face value price. Season ticket holders will also have their season tickets revoked should they be found selling their seats to visiting supporters. Not only is touting risking your ability to attend future matches at Villa Park, it is illegal and West Midlands Police will be informed.”
Aston Villa v Celtic gets underway at 20:00 GMT on Wednesday, with all UEFA Champions League clashes kicking off simultaneously on Matchday 8.