Massive Police Presence At Gills

Swindon Town fans were greeted by police, riot vans, police dogs, a police helicopter and horses before and after their League One clash with Gillingham at Priestfield.

The scenes probably seemed a bit over the top. You would have thought Manchester United were playing Manchester City and a huge fight was arranged but no it was Gillingham V Swindon Town.

Fans getting off the official supporters coaches were told to wait for police horses to escort them to the ground to 'ensure their safety'.


Town fans escorted to Priestfield

The last time the 2 teams played in Gillingham there were scuffles between rival fans which sent many fleeing into local shops seeking refuge from the carnage. Kent police were determined not to allow the same thing to happen again.

An officer from the Kent Police Authority told Vital Swindon Town that the police had been caught out last time and did not realise there was history between the 2 sides and were keen to avoid a repeat of the situation.


What a lovely neighbourhood.

The officer also stated that they had drafted in police from 4 different forces for the game and with Gillingham set to be relegated, the already potential volatile situation could escalate should Town relegate Gillingham.

The police closed roads and stopped traffic to get the Town supporters to and from the ground.

The police stated they would be heading up to Ebbsfleet with the Swindon Town fans on the train to ensure that Town fans did not clash with Oxford United supporters who were playing Ebbsfleet later on in the day.