Gardai issue advice as close to 20,000 expected in Ballybofey for big match

Gardai have issued guideliens for supporters attending Donegal's All-Ireland SFC group 3 clash with Tyrone on Saturday evening in Ballybofey.

Sean MacCumhaill Park is expected to be close to its 17,520 capacity when the derby foes cross swords.

Donegal defeated Tyrone in a semi-final on their way to winning the Ulster title and the Finnside venue will be a cauldon by the time Joe McQuillan throws the ball in at 7.15pm.

Saturday is a notably day for shopping in Ballybofey and the Twin Towns acts as a busy thoroughfare.

Gardai say tha tin the region of 20,000 people are expected in Ballybofey and have warned that traffic delays are to be expected.

“While we endeavour to assist traffic movement as much as possible, the large numbers will result in unavoidable delays,” a spokesperson said.

“Adding additional time for your journey is advised.

“Parking will be available in several car parks around the town. Please utilise these areas fully. With such large attendance, any vehicles causing an obstruction will be towed. This will be done to ensure a free flow of traffic pre and post match.

“Gardaí, front line security and stewards will be restricting access at barrier locations. Only match ticket holders will be permitted access past these barriers. Please note no alcohol is permitted past the barriers or inside the grounds.”

Gardai remind patrons that only vehicles with an official pass will be permitted access to car park at Mac Cumhaill Park main entrance and Limited parking for blue badge holders is available at the car park at the stand entrance (behind Villa Rose hotel).

The spokesperson said: “Vehicle access to this car park and McCools way will be restricted at Jackson’s Hotel to only hotel guests and blue badge holders.

“Once full there will be no vehicle access to this area. There is limited disabled parking on the Main Street and in car parks in the vicinity of the grounds.

“Please follow directions of Gardaí and stewards in the area. We hope everyone has an enjoyable evening and best of luck to both teams.”