POLICE will be present at St James’ Park and in Exeter City Centre throughout Thursday, October 23 as Exeter City host Plymouth Argyle in EFL League One.

Kick off will take place at 8pm and the fixture will be the first between the two clubs since April 2023 when a Matt Butcher goal secured a 1-0 win for the Pilgrims on their way to promotion to the Championship.

Argyle’s relegation from the Championship last season means the return of the Devon derby, with the Grecians having remained comfortably placed in mid-table over the past three seasons.

Both teams and their fans will be keen to secure bragging rights over their closest rival, and the all-ticket affair, has already sold out to both home and away supporters.

Chief Inspector Victoria Richards who is heading up the policing operation for the game, said: ‘Preparations have been ongoing for some time as we prepare to welcome thousands of football supporters into the city for this game.

‘We have been working closely with our partners including British Transport Police and both clubs to ensure the game is an enjoyable experience for all.

‘Our officers are experienced in policing sporting events such as the Devon derby and many have been involved with the policing of this fixture before.

‘The Exeter public is likely to notice an increased police presence on the day of the match.

‘Anybody who is intent on causing trouble will be quickly and robustly dealt with.

‘The vast majority of football fans are a pleasure for us to work with and we have taken every measure available to us to help deliver a safe and friendly event’.

Argyle have sold out the away end to season ticket holders and a road closure will be in place behind the away end either side of kick off to allow for the away fans coaches to drop off, park and pick up fans at full time.

There will also be a police presence at surrounding train stations on matchday.

Clive Harrison, interim club chairman at Exeter City, said: ‘We are looking forward to a fantastic game of football under the lights in front of packed St James Park on Thursday evening.

‘We know this is a highly anticipated match and emotions will be running high, but we also know that City fans will represent the best of their club and Devon to a potentially worldwide audience’.