Thousands descend on Atherstone. Road closures are scheduled with a 3 p.m. start. Police ensure safety during the historic game.
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, kicking it down Long Street. Businesses protect their doors and windows.
The event draws large crowds to the town, which 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 and 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 between Leicestershire and Warwickshire in 1199. They used a gold bag as a ball, and Warwickshire won back then.
Warwickshire Police warn against criminal behavior. Chief Supt. Mike Smith commented on the event, saying the game is key to North Warwickshire.
Police supported organizers last year, helping the event occur safely, and they want to do the same this year. Policing this event requires a delicate balance; they want to protect the historic event and stop violence.
He thanked the community for their support. They helped police this unique game.