FANS of Bolton Wanderers and Bury have been urged to let football be the focus and not let criminal behaviour spoil Monday's derby match.

The neighbouring Sky Bet League One clubs face each other at Bury's Gigg Lane ground in a hotly-anticipated fixture with a 7.45pm kick-off.

Fears around the game have been heightened after Bolton and Oldham Athletic followers clashed in Horwich last weekend in what was described as a street brawl involving fireworks and bottles being thrown at each other.

Chief Inspector Joanne Marshall-Bell, match commander for Greater Manchester Police, said: "I would like to take this opportunity to welcome supporters of both clubs ahead of what is sure to be a competitive fixture between two local rivals.

"Although we know the majority of fans attending the match will do so with the intention of enjoying the game in spirited but safe environment, there will be a robust policing operation in place to ensure the day passes off without serious incident.

"I know local derbies can be emotionally charged occasions but I would like to urge fans to behave responsibly and enjoy the football without compromising the safety of others in attendance.

"Let’s hope Monday’s match is a great spectacle that all those in attendance can relish and talk about for weeks to come."

Police will be hoping for no repeat of the disorder that broke out between Bolton and Oldham Athletic supporters in Horwich an hour before the 3pm kick-off at the Macron Stadium on Saturday.

It led to two arrests: a 23-year-old man on suspicion of assaulting a police officer and a 21-year-old man on suspicion of affray and possession of a controlled drug. 

Police continue to investigate if it was an organised showdown between the rival sets of fans.

Bolton head into Monday evening's game in third in the league while Bury sit eighth.

The side will taking 3,200 fans to Bury for what will be first league meeting between the two clubs since 1999.