Plans have been put in place to make sure people stay safe during this Easter’s Uppies and Downies series in Workington.
The mass no rules football game, which has no organiser, takes place on Good Friday, Easter Tuesday and the following Saturday.
Cumbria police, Allerdale Borough Council, Cumbria County Council, Highways, Coastguard, North West Ambulance Service and Washington Square have met to discuss to how to keep everyone safe during the unauthorised event and to discuss additional resourcing.
Extra officers and resources will be deployed for the events to ensure it passes safely for all, police said.
Superintendent Lisa Hogan said “We want people to enjoy the event, but we are asking people to be safe and think of their safety and the safety of others.
“People also need to be aware of their surroundings and take particular care with regards private land and property and their behaviour and actions when the ball comes into close proximity with cars and other property.
“The majority will enjoy the event responsibly; however, we will have officers in the area if anyone has any concerns and to identify any offences if people use the event as an excuse to cause damage.”
They are advising communities and visitors to consider where they park their car during the event to avoid potential damage to vehicles and have been speaking with businesses and local communities ahead of the event to provide advice.
Parents are urged to speak to their children ahead of their attending the event to make sure they are aware of the safety advice.
A spokesman said: “People should be especially careful of the risks posed by large crowds, leading to potentially serious injuries, as well as trips, sprains and bruises.
“Those taking part are asked to be particularly careful when entering or considering entering any water. This can put people at particularly high risk and is not recommended.”
