POLICE said a robust presence in Crewe for the local derby between Crewe Alexandra and Port Vale saw incident limited to five arrests.

The policing operation focused around Gresty Road, Nantwich Road and Crewe Town Centre.

There were additional police resources supported by British Transport Police at Crewe Railway Station to ensure supporters from both teams were able to make their way safely to the ground after arriving in the town.

Chief Inspector Paul Carroll said “The policing operation required co-operation with partners within our community – including local licencees, representatives from both Clubs, Staffordshire Police and the British Transport Police to ensure that the fixture went ahead without significant incident.

“Where there were pockets of disorder that emerged prior to and during the match, the individuals responsible were dealt with robustly and arrested to ensure the safety of other match-goers and the local community was not compromised.”

Pubs were closed from 3pm until well after the match ended, when police commanders considered that any risk of disorder or violence had passed.

Five arrests were made in total, for public order and drug – related offences. These individuals remain in police custody where they will be interviewed in due course.

Of the five arrests made, three were Port Vale supporters and two were Crewe Alexandra fans.

Officers from Crewe Neighbourhood Policing Unit provided a highly visible presence in the areas of Nantwich Road and Gresty Road, as well as inside the ground itself to support the extensive stewarding operation.