BLACKPOOL'S warring days with Preston are over, according to North End!

The behaviour of North End and Blackpool fans during the past few derbies has improved to such an extent that police officers and Deepdale security staff have decided to let the next Deepdale derby kick-off at 3pm.

For the past few years, the game has been pulled forward to either a noon or 1pm kick off to prevent fans boozing and brawling before a game.

But, apparently, that isn't such a problem anymore.

According to Nigel Webster, the operations director at Preston North End, the time is right for a 3pm kick off to be tried again.

He said: "We haven't experienced the problems of the past in the last couple of years and long may that con tinue.

"By starting at 3pm we won't be penalising the fans who have had to miss out on derby games because they have commitments earlier in the day on a Saturday."

There has been no notable violence at a PNE/Blackpool game for two years. Two seasons ago, more than 78 fans were arrested following a clash at Deepdale.

North End are virtually guaranteed a full house for the December 18 clash with Blackpool.

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