Thousands will gather as Atherstone hosts its historic Ball Game. Road closures are set from 11 AM. Game starts at 3 PM.
Roads will close this morning for the game. The Atherstone Ball Game happens every Shrove Tuesday. Teams try to keep the ball until the end. They kick it down Long Street.
Businesses protect their doors and windows. The event draws large crowds to the town. The town basically shuts down for the day. The game begins at 3 p.m.
Police and spectators will be there too. Police have planned the operation for months. Long Street is the center of game activity. It will be closed to traffic.
INRIX says expect delays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closures affect Long Street, between North and Station Streets. The game honors a medieval football match. It was between Leicestershire and Warwickshire in 1199.
They used a gold bag as a ball. Warwickshire won back then. Warwickshire Police warn against criminal behavior. Chief Supt. Mike Smith commented on the event.
He says the game is key to North Warwickshire. Police supported organizers last year. They helped the event occur safely. They want to do the same this year.
Policing this event requires a delicate balance. They want to protect the historic event. They also want to stop violence. He thanked the community for their support. They helped police this unique game.