Dublin supporters told to arrive early for Sam Maguire party

Dublin City Council is asking people to arrive early for tonight's "homecoming" event for the Dublin football team.

A big party is planned to welcome the Sam Maguire home after the Boys in Blue beat Mayo at Croke Park yesterday.

Large crowds are expected in the Merrion Square area for the event, which kicks off at 7pm. Fans are already gathering, with some present since 2.30pm.

People can access the event via Merrion Square South, Merrion Square East and Fitzwilliam Street Lower.

Those planning to attend are also being asked to use public transport.

"The reasons why we picked Merrion Square is that is does reduce the impact on the rest of the city because you don't have too many shops there or traders there or businesses there," said Lord Mayor of Dublin Oisín Quinn.

"There will be some traffic disruption so [people should] try to avoid the Merrion Square area on their route home"