POLICE are warning of a zero tolerance weekend as one of the biggest security operations is mounted for an Old Firm match.

A ring of steel will be thrown around Glasgow, with scores of extra officers drafted in for the match at Hampden tomorrow, and a major police operation in the city centre.

Extra officers have also been dedicated to clampdown on domestic violence, which traditionally spikes after rival football clashes, and warned that police and football stewards would be on alert for anyone trying to smuggle booze into the ground.

Chief Superintendent Andy Bates, in charge of the massive police operation, said: "My message is clear, anyone involved in disorder will be arrested".

Fears that the powderkeg Old Firm clash will explode in violence have led to enhanced security measures at city bars.

The city is on red alert as thousands descend on Glasgow and pub staff have been warned to clear tables "as quickly as possible" in a bid to keep glasses and bottles out of punters' hands if tempers flare.

The Evening Times can also reveal senior police chiefs have fears over overcrowding at city centre bars and are determined to prevent rivalries erupting on the streets outside.

Chief Inspector Mark Sutherland, who is in charge of policing Glasgow city centre, said: "One of our main focuses will be to ensure that our pubs and clubs across the city are well managed throughout the weekend.

"It is crucial that staff understand their role in preventing disorder by not selling alcohol to people who have had too much to drink, prevent overcrowding and keep tables clear of glasses and bottles."

Police have vowed to take a hard line with troublemakers ahead of the first Celtic v Rangers match in almost three years, and intelligence-gathering has been taking place since the fixture was announced.

Officers have been visiting pubs across the city, so they can have officers in the right places if violence breaks out.

Senior police have compiled reports on how many pubs are showing the game and if there has ever been trouble at licensed premises before.

Area Commander CI Sutherland said his officers will root out fans aiming sectarian or racist abuse at other supporters.

He added: "Our own officers assisted by specialist licensing officers will be carrying out regular visits to monitor and support our licensed premises over the course of the weekend.

"I would also ask supporters to enjoy the games but to drink, and behave, responsibly and to respect others who will be using the city centre.

"Any form of disorder and especially sectarian behaviour in or out of a licensed premise will not be tolerated."

Police fear the 1.30pm kick-off time for the game will give fans time to drink before the match and possibly fuel trouble.

As revealed by the Evening Times, there are also concerns about hooligans organising violent battles in the hours before the match.

Pubs have been the scenes of violence on previous Old Firm match days and police will patrol renowned violence hotspots.

Chief Supt Bates said stamping out alcohol-fuelled violence was a priority.

He said: "One of the main issues for police is supporters drinking to excess.

"Police and stewards will be looking out for anyone who is drunk or intent on causing disruption."

There will be police checks on buses and coaches at "numerous locations" before both matches, with officers warning people could be arrested if they are drunk or carrying alcohol on a bus or train to the ground.

One pub chain has decided to black out Sunday's Old Firm game over fears of violence.

Wetherspoon's bosses revealed the League Cup semi-final - live on BBC Scotland - will not be shown in their pubs in Glasgow.

CI Sutherland added: "The city centre will see a huge increase in visitors as fans arrive for both the semi final fixtures.

"While the main focus has been on the Celtic v Rangers game, we are equally prepared for the Aberdeen v Dundee UTD game which will bring a lot of travelling support to the City and a surge in residents using the hotels and travel network.

"We have carefully planned to keep people safe throughout the weekend with additional resources on the ground from yesterday (Friday) as the first fans arrive for both games."

Police warned

Chief Inspector David Gray, who is leading the British Transport Police operation for the matches, said officers would be enforcing alcohol restrictions on the trains throughout both days.