POLICE will adopt a low-key approach despite the threat of political protest overshadowing the North-East's entry to the cricket Test match arena next month.

Durham Police have pledged that spectator safety is their main concern when Chester-le-Street's Riverside ground stages its first Test match, from June 5.

Human rights groups have threatened to repeat protests witnessed during the first Test of the England/Zimbabwe series, which began at Lord's, in London, on Thursday.

Play was interrupted twice by pitch invaders, who unfurled banners objecting to the regime of Zimbabwe president Robert Mugabe. Two people were arrested for running on to the outfield during play.

A 50-strong demonstration also took place outside the ground as players and spectators arrived at Lord's.

Police from Durham travelled to London on Wednesday on a fact-finding trip to view the demonstrations and to talk to officials from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

Inspector Dave Marshall, who will oversee the police operation during the Riverside Test, said: "Our primary responsibility is to ensure spectators can come to the Test match at Chester-le-Street in safety.

"Officials from Durham County Cricket Club are talking to the organisers of the protests on a regular basis, and we are confident we will be able to respond to whatever might be planned for the game.

"Although there will be a police presence inside the ground, this is perfectly normal for a major sporting event.

"Our approach will be low-key and we will only intervene if an offence is committed."

Stewards employed by the Durham club will have the initial responsibility to deal with any pitch invasions.

Police have warned that anyone entering the playing area will be arrested and may face charges of aggravated trespass.

Spectators are reminded that they cannot take alcohol with them into the ground, but licensed bars will operate during the game inside the stadium.

Police will mount their operation from a temporary office set up at the ground for the duration of the five-day match