JUBILANT Blackburn fans praised the police as they left Ewood Park following Rovers' 5-0 thumping of Burnley.

And they said they were pleased to have witnessed the first Blackburn-Burnley derby to be staged at Ewood Park in 17 years.

David Innes, from Hoddlesden, said: "This game was always going to be a bit special and I didn't expect Rovers to win quite so well. I thought it would be nearer 2-0.

"But it was a great day and the police have been excellent, both inside and outside the ground."

Gaye Neild had travelled to the game from Bacup. She said: "There was talk of trouble at the game but the police obviously had it sorted and there weren't any problems.

"It was great to see this local derby and the result was no surprise."

Her friend, Marie Sandilands, also from Bacup, added: "Such a game is much more fun to watch than the ones against the likes of Wimbledon.

"I was a bit worried about what might happen, especially after what went on in Burnley in December, but the police were really good."

For eight-year-old Daniel Leeming, of Clayton-le-Woods, yesterday was his first experience of a local derby.

He said: "It was great. Everything about it was great and everyone was really friendly."

His grandmother, Lena Livesey, of Bamber Bridge, added: "There was an electric atmosphere inside the ground but it was a friendly one as well.

"The police were great in making sure there weren't any problems."

Todmorden man David Barker decided to hang back after the game to avoid any trouble as he drove through Burnley.

He said: "The police made sure it was safe here.

"It was great to see a local derby but fingers crossed there won't be another one for a bit because we will be in the Premiership next season!"