LANDLORDS in Blackburn town centre have been warned to close their pubs amid fears that violence could erupt between rival football fans.

Police believe next Tuesday's derby between Blackburn Rovers and Bolton Wanderers could be a potential flashpoint between hooligans.

The clubs have a long history of rivalry and the last time Wanderers came to Blackburn widespread fighting broke out in the town centre.

The warning comes just days after thugs sparked a mass brawl in the Adelphi Hotel.

It is believed the fight was started by Blackburn Rovers fans who mistook a group of visiting Stockport County supporters for Burnley fans.

Officers have been speaking to landlords in the town centre and have advised them to close on the night.

Several pubs have already taken the decision to close, including the Adelphi.

When Wanderers visited Blackburn two years ago, there were 35 arrests after the match and fighting in the Boulevard.

Police said at the time the violence was organised and hooligans had been spotted making arrangements on mobile phones.

It was also revealed that the internet was being used to pass on information between rival gangs of thugs and flyers were handed out by trouble-makers. But officers who monitor the activities of football hooligans say this time around they are not aware of any pre-arranged violence.

Inspector Stuart Caley, Blackburn's football intelligence officer, said: "Obviously this game is a flashpoint and we have been advising landlords of the situation. We have not told anyone they have got to close for the night but we are advising landlords it might be prudent to do so.

"The incident on Saturday was due to an unfortunate set of circumstances and we would not want to see a similar situation.

"There have been a number of rumours doing the rounds but that is always the case with a big match.

"As far as we are concerned there is no intelligence to suggest that any organised violence is being planned."

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