Police step up patrols for Women's Rugby World Cup

Japan have been training at Daventry Rugby Club ahead of their game on Sunday

Police are planning dedicated patrols in preparation for thousands of fans descending on Northampton for the Women's Rugby World Cup.

Franklin's Gardens, home of Northampton Saints, will host six games during the tournament, beginning with a double-header on Sunday, of Ireland vs Japan and then South Africa vs Brazil.

Northamptonshire Police said officers would be around the stadium and at the fan zone area in Market Square during each game, to keep people safe and offer assistance.

Det Ch Supt Rich Tompkins, who is leading the operation, said his team had been working with organisers for months to ensure a "safe and smooth-running event".

"It's really exciting to see the Women's Rugby World Cup coming to our county town, and I've no doubt our home-grown fans will give a warm welcome to everyone travelling here to support their teams," he added.

"The Saints regularly play in front of capacity crowds at Franklin's Gardens without any incident, and we're expecting similarly positive matchday behaviour from fans at the World Cup matches."

The World Cup begins at 19:30 BST with England vs USA at Sunderland's Stadium of Light.

The Red Roses play their second game, against Samoa, at Franklin's Gardens on Saturday 30 August, with the stadium also hosting Ireland vs Spain the following day.

Northampton will also see Italy vs Brazil and France vs South Africa on 7 September, the final day of the group stages.