PLANS to switch a crunch Superleague match to Warrington's Walking Day has raised concerns about safety in the town centre.

Many of the town's publicans believe that a combination of all-day drinking and an emotion-fuelled game between Warrington Wolves and bitter rivals Wigan could end in trouble.

Violence between drunken yobs has been a common occurence after the town's annual Walking Day celebrations in previous years.

Now many fear that an expected full-house at Wilderspool with more than 2000 travelling away fans could add to the existing problems.

The clubs are scheduled to meet on Sunday July 4 but the game could be brought forward to the Friday to fit in with television commitments.

Although no official move has been made to alter the date, discussions are taking place between the police and the club about security if Sky Sports want to screen the match live.

The plans have been criticised by licensees who fear that they may bear the brunt of the trouble.

Sharon Arnold, supervisor at the Postern Gate, said: "I think it would be a very bad idea. It's like throwing red meat to the lions.

"The Postern's possibly the busiest pub in town on Walking Day. Added to the fact everybody's off work I don't think it would be a good thing," she said. Darren Corless, of Bridges pub on Bridge Street, said: "I think there would be some trouble. Keeping it on the Sunday would be better because most of the pubs in the town centre wouldn't be open anyway."

Landlord Mark Curwen, of The Causeway, added: "We never have any trouble in here but I'd be against the proposals.

"There's always fighting in town on Walking Day and this wouldn't help," he said.

The police and the club say that the game will only go ahead if it can be properly patrolled and that town centre safety will not be compromised for rugby.

Superintendent Kevin Mayhew said: "We don't know if the game is going to go ahead as yet but we do have officers assessing the practicalities of policing both the game and Walking Day.

"If we can get the resources above the normal, perhaps with help from other divisions, then we will be able to police it effectively and safely.

"If we feel that we're not in a position to police it then the game will not go ahead," said Supt Mayhew.

A Wolves spokesman said that a Friday night game would be beneficial for the players as they face a midweek match at Huddersfield on July 7.

David Gallant said: "From a coaching point of view Friday would be better for us, but the final decision is with the police."

The switch is unlikely to be made until nearer the date and depending on the fortunes of both clubs in the Superleague.

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