A MAJOR policing operation has been launched ahead of the England v Macedonia match at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Greater Manchester Police has sent out 160 letters to people with football banning orders locally, reminding them to stay away from Manchester or face arrest.

Following the World Cup 151 banning orders have been imposed on people across the country.

The Euro 2008 qualifier will kick-off at 5pm and fans are advised to allow plenty of time for their journey to Manchester.

The police presence in the city centre, around the stadium and on Salford Quays will be increased to provide public reassurance and minimise disorder. Officers from GMP's Tactical Aid Unit, dog unit, mounted unit and traffic officers will be on patrol.

A ticket cordon will be operated by officers to ensure only people in possession of a valid ticket will be able to get into the perimeter of the ground. People without tickets are advised to stay at home and enjoy the match with their family and friends.

Spotters will be in and around the ground and in the city centre to identify any potential troublemakers.

The city will be busier than usual and supporters are encouraged to get to the ground in good time.

Shuttle trains from the city centre to Old Trafford will run before and after the match. The Metrolink will also be operating services as usual.

Letters have been sent to licensees in Manchester, Trafford and Salford to remind them of their responsibilities in relation to the behaviour and activities of drinkers at their venues.

Bye-laws will be strongly enforced on the streets to prohibit the consumption of alcohol in public places. An alcohol cordon will operate and those people with cans and bottles of alcohol will be asked to throw them away. Any supporters who turn up drunk to the ground will be refused entry by security staff at Old Trafford.

Tickets will not be available on the day of the match and people without tickets are advised to stay at home and watch the match on TV. There won't be any big screens showing the match in Manchester.

Police Commander for the fixture, Superintendent John Graves said: "Greater Manchester Police is used to policing high profile matches and the operation for this game will ensure the match is held with minimal disruption and that, most importantly, people can have a safe, enjoyable time here.

"Those people with banning orders have been sent letters reminding them not to come to Manchester or they will face arrest. There will be several spotters at the ground and in the city centre to identify potential troublemakers and avert any aggressive behaviour.

"I hope the match will be an enjoyable event for everyone who attends and that a carnival atmosphere will be created by the genuine supporters who attend. We will not allow a small minority to ruin the game for the vast majority of true football fans."