Horses are being drafted in to thwart any would-be hooligans and boost the police operation covering festive football in Cumbria.

A mounted section is set to be used when Coventry City arrive to play Carlisle United on Saturday due to the large crowded expected.

Elsewhere officers will be out today at some of the more popular sporting events at a time of the year when football plays a big part.

Both Carlisle and Barrow AFC are at home today and on Saturday.

Workington Reds are not at home until New Year's Day.

Officials at Carlisle's Brunton Park ground are preparing for a bumper Boxing Day crowd - as well as games against big clubs Coventry and Sheffield Wednesday in the next two weeks.

A force spokesman said: "We want everyone attending any events over the festive period to have a safe and enjoyable time.

"Officers will be present at some of the larger events across the county, including football matches.

"A mounted section has been requested to assist the policing of the Carlisle United versus Coventry City match on December 30."

The former top flight club has a large travelling support.

The force spokesman added: "This request was made due to the large numbers of fans expected to attend the game.

"Their presence is additional support to officers in their efforts to ensure the safety of both sets of supporters."

Cumbria Police does not have its own mounted section - so it is set to be brought in from another force.

Andy Hall, United's media officer, said: "We've said a number of times that our fans are excellent at creating an atmosphere which is lively, boisterous and enjoyable for people of all ages.

"The most recent example was on Tuesday night (against Gillingham) where the noise levels were unbelievable.

"There is absolutely no doubt it played a part in helping the lads to put on exactly the type of performance we needed to secure our progression."

He added: "The festive and New Year period sees Accrington Stanley, Coventry City and Sheffield Wednesday come to Brunton Park and all three clubs are expected to bring increased numbers.

"We’re confident that supporters of all clubs will enter the spirit of the contests they will watch, and we’re looking forward to seeing large travelling followings and to them leaving Carlisle and Cumbria with nothing but positive things to say about the experience.

"These are always games to enjoy and we know that our fans will do their bit to make them enjoyable occasions for everyone."

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The festive fixtures

  • CARLISLE UNITED

Today: Accrington Stanley (H), Brunton Park, 3pm

Saturday, December 30: Coventry (H), Brunton Park, 3pm

Monday, January 1: Mansfield Town (A), One Call Stadium, 3pm

  • BARROW AFC

Today: Wrexham (H), Holker St, 3pm

Saturday, December 30: Solihull Moors (H), Holker St, 3pm

Monday, January 1: Wrexham (A), Racecourse Ground, 3pm

  • WORKINGTON REDS

Today: Lancaster City (A), Giant Axe Stadium, 3pm

Saturday, December 30: Stafford Rangers (A), Marston Road, 3pm

Monday, January 1: Whitby Town (H), Borough Park, 3pm