POLICE chiefs are stepping up security plans to prevent soccer hooligans marring an historic North-East derby clash at the weekend.

Darlington and Hartlepool United meet on Saturday in the final competitive match between the arch rivals at Feethams - and both clubs are anxious to stop a war of words between supporters escalating into violence.

Messages have been posted on the Internet claiming that scores of Hartlepool fans have bought tickets for the home stand with the intention of sparking trouble.

But, in the wake of a similar situation at last weekend's Premiership match between Sunderland and Middlesbrough, police and club officials are working closely to prevent violence.

Trouble flared at the Stadium of Light after pockets of Middlesbrough fans got into the main Sunderland stand.

Chief Inspector Barry Knevitt, of Darlington police, said: "There will be a considerable police presence."

Officers are not usually needed to patrol Darlington's home games, with the club's own stewards able to handle security arrangements themselves.

But, with Darlington set to move to a new 25,000-capacity stadium next season, plans are being put in place to avert any potential clashes at the last Feethams derby between the two.

Chief Insp Knevitt said: "There is a traditional long-standing rivalry between the two clubs and the last time they met at Feethams there were a handful of arrests.

"We're obviously hoping that there will be no repeat and that there will be few reasons for the police to be involved.

"Both the club and ourselves are monitoring the sale of home tickets in an attempt to make sure there is no volatile mix of supporters."

Hartlepool have sold their ticket allocation of 2,000 and about 4,000 home fans are expected at the match.

In previous years, business owners around the Bank Top railway station area have complained of being caught in the crossfire of battles between rival fans.

On the pitch, Darlington will be looking to avenge a 4-1 defeat at Victoria Park earlier this season.