AHEAD of their festive fixtures, Darlington and Spennymoor Town have called for calm in a joint statement.

The clubs have enjoyed a rivalry in recent years and meet on Boxing Day at Blackwell Meadows, and then at the Brewery Field on New Year’s Day.

Last year’s fixture at Blackwell was followed by an incident outside the ground in which, Quakers said at the time, “a young Spennymoor supporter was struck by a so-called Darlington ‘fan’. We are assisting Spennymoor Town FC and Durham Constabulary with their enquiries into this incident, and would like to wish the Spennymoor supporter concerned a speedy recovery.”

During the match Town’s Jamie Chandler was at the centre of controversy. After Spennymoor’s second goal he reacted with an offensive hand gesture towards Quakers fans who had goaded the former Darlington midfielder.

Now, the clubs say “misbehaviour will not be tolerated” and are asking supporters to conduct themselves “in a manner befitting the fantastic reputations of the clubs”.

The statement reads: “Darlington and Spennymoor Town Football Clubs would like to warmly welcome fans from both clubs to the games in the Vanarama National League at Blackwell Meadows on Boxing Day and at the Brewery Field on New Year’s Day.

“Both teams are playing well at the moment, and the directors want everyone who attends the two matches to enjoy themselves without incident, so let’s hope for two great games full of entertaining and competitive football in a family-friendly atmosphere. Local fixtures are great football events we should all be proud of.

“We hope that both sets of supporters will conduct themselves in a manner befitting the fantastic reputations of the clubs. We advise you to arrive early for both games, as there will be congestion at the turnstiles.

“The clubs have worked closely behind the scenes sharing information and plans, to ensure supporters can attend in a safe and enjoyable environment.

“To ensure the safety of all there will be random searches of fans at the turnstiles and pyrotechnic sniffer dogs will be on duty.

“Let us be clear, misbehaviour will not be tolerated, the clubs will continue to work closely before, during and after the games, and spectators will be penalised which may include exclusion from Blackwell Meadows or the Brewery Field as a consequence of their conduct.

“We would like to wish all our supporters a happy Christmas and peaceful new year and please enjoy what should be two great derby games.”