POLICE have confirmed preliminary plans for Chelsea Football Club's visit to Scarborough this weekend.

The seaside minnows earned the right to take on the Premiership's millionaires with a win over Southend in the third round of the FA Cup last week, and a capacity 6,000 crowd is expected at the McCain Stadium on Saturday.

Tickets for the match sold out zin two hours.

The game will be screened on Sky Sports at 12.30pm, and pubs, clubs and hotels are expected to open so fans without tickets can see the match.

Chief Inspector Ken Gill has appealed to drivers to leave their cars at home.

But, he has also warned that officers drafted in from across North Yorkshire will be instructed not to let the occasion become an excuse for anti-social behaviour.

He said: "This is a wonderful opportunity for the club and the town to raise their profile nationally and bring revenue and a great many visitors to the resort.

"However, officers will be drawn from across the county to support colleagues at Scarborough, and the police presence in and around the ground, and indeed the town centre, will be heavy.

"I will also be seeking support from an adjoining force to supply mounted officers and working closely with Scarborough Borough Council to alleviate any traffic problems.

"Parking for supporters is likely to be very restricted, but we are looking to make best use of the park-and-ride site at the Weaponess Valley coach park, which is well within walking distance.

"My appeal to home and away fans alike is the same -come to Scarborough to enjoy the game and the benefits the resort offers.

"However, remember the policing presence will be significant, and these celebrations will not be allowed to become an excuse for disorder."

York City agreed to delay a home match against Huddersfield on Saturday by 24 hours to allow police to provide cover at Scarborough.