Police prepare for major operation ahead of Exeter vs Plymouth Devon Derby

Police are preparing for a large-scale operation as Exeter City hosts Plymouth Argyle in the Devon derby at St James Park on Thursday, 23 October. 

The match, which kicks off at 8pm, is the first league meeting between the two rivals since April 2023, when Plymouth secured a narrow 1–0 win. 

With Argyle back in League One following relegation from the Championship and Exeter maintaining a steady mid-table position in recent seasons, demand for tickets has been high. The fixture has already sold out for both home and away supporters.

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Devon & Cornwall Police confirmed that around 180 officers will be deployed across Exeter, Plymouth and the train network linking the two cities. Officers will be on duty throughout the day in the city centre and around St James Park to manage crowds and ensure public safety. 

Chief Inspector Victoria Richards, who is leading the policing operation, said preparations have been ongoing since August. She said: “I’m the silver commander for the Exeter versus Plymouth Devon Derby which is happening in the fair city of Exeter at 8pm on Thursday 23rd October. We’ve been planning for this historic Devon Derby since August and we’ve got around 180 officers on duty across both Plymouth and Exeter and the train network in between to help the club and support them to make this a safe and exciting event for everyone.”

“To the football fans coming to watch this, come to Exeter, have a great night, enjoy the football, treat each other with respect, and go home safely. And to local residents, we’re well aware that this is going to impact your Thursday travel time.” 

“We will have plenty of officers on duty to support you, keep everyone safe, and hopefully we can return the city of Exeter back to normality as soon as possible.”

The police have been coordinating with British Transport Police and both football clubs to help manage the expected influx of supporters. Officers involved in the operation have previous experience handling high-profile fixtures, including past derbies between the two clubs. 

Fans travelling from Plymouth will arrive at a sold-out away end, and a temporary road closure will be in place behind the stand to allow coach access before and after the game.There will also be a police presence at major train stations on matchday.

 Local residents are being advised to allow extra time for travel due to possible congestion on roads and public transport. 

Chief Inspector Richards added that while the majority of supporters are respectful and there to enjoy the occasion, anyone intent on causing disruption will be dealt with swiftly.

The aim of the operation is to ensure that the derby is a safe event for fans, residents and visitors, and that normality can return to the city as soon as possible once the final whistle blows.