Millwall fans up for the Cup

Football fans in Cardiff were enjoying a carnival atmosphere today – as what is seen as the largest security operation surrounding an FA Cup Final was underway.

More than 100,000 people were packing out the city today, as the Millennium Stadium plays host to Manchester United’s clash with Millwall.

Pubs and bars in the city were experiencing a bumper trade today. Fans from both teams, including many families, were soaking up the sunshine, enjoying a drink outside the city’s pubs and clubs or sitting in nearby parks.

And South Wales Police said the public have been supportive of the massive security operation, which involves around 1,000 officers on duty over the period.

Assistant Chief Constable Stephen Cahill, who is overseeing the operation, said there had been no football-related arrests on Friday night.

Police officers have also stressed that there was no specific terrorist threat this weekend.

But Mr Cahill said the police were expected to be prepared and have the right officers and equipment to meet problems.

“The message is ‘Come to Cardiff – it’s a great experience,”’ Mr Cahill said.

Armed officers have been checking vehicles such as lorries which are capable of carrying large cargos and chemicals since mid-week.

“We want people to come early and stay late. We want them to enjoy themselves.”

But anyone intent on causing trouble would be dealt with firmly, he said.

“Ninety-nine per cent of people are coming for a great day out,” Mr Cahill said. “We want to assist them to do that.”

South Wales Police officers have also been liaising with the Metropolitan Police and Greater Manchester Police to identify any possible troublemakers.

“We have a good relationship with both clubs,” said Mr Cahill.

“Manchester United and Millwall have been working very hard and they have supported the police.”

Around 68,000 fans were attending the match today. Some seating in the stadium has been taken out and netting, stewards and police officers will be in place to minimise the risk of disorder.

Extra checks of fans’ baggage on the way into the game were being carried out - and police officers were urging supporters not to bring unnecessary baggage with them.

Millwall fans arriving in the Cardiff today praised the atmosphere.

Eileen Wood, an accountant, arrived today with her husband Ronald and her 94-year-old mother-in-law Ethel.

Mrs Wood, 49, from All Hallows in Kent, said: “I think it’s brilliant.”

Asked about her team’s chances, she said: “We live in hope – it’s a big day for us.”

Brothers Mike Lear, 71, and Jim Lear 65, also arrived this morning from Woodford in London.

They said they had stopped at a service station in the Swindon area at 8am - and it was already packed out with Millwall fans.

Jim Lear described the mood as “jovial and happy” and said he was “very impressed with Cardiff“.

Manchester United fans Mike Brennan, 42, and his son Tom, 10, did not have as far to journey, as the pair live in the Whitchurch area of Cardiff.

Mr Brennan, a telecoms consultant, said: “We walked past the pubs and there was no trouble at all, just the odd bit of banter here and there.”

Supporters have also made their way to the Welsh capital by air today.

Russ Clements, head of operations at Cardiff International Airport, said six chartered flights – five from Manchester and one from Gatwick – were arriving for the game, as well as 30 executive jets from all over the UK.