Metal detectors will be posted at the entrances to the Somerset Cricket Club stadium to help search spectators for concealed weapons for the first time this year while the Police presence will also be boosted.

Assistant Commissioner Carlton Adams said 70 officers will be inside and outside Somerset Cricket Club while officers will also be out in force for holiday concerts tonight, tomorrow and Friday.

For the cricket, officers will be posted by the metal detectors at entrances including one at Broome Street, two at the main gate in Cricket Lane and one at the far end of Cricket Lane. Police are advising spectators not to carry any unnecessary metal objects on them when they turn up at the ground.

Police and club officials are anxious to avoid risking a repeat of the Wellington Oval clashes in April where gangs used machetes, swords and knifes at a football match.

Mr. Adams continued: "We are aware starting on Wednesday evening there will be a number of concerts Island-wide.

"Certain negative elements have used these events for violent confrontation."

In November last year violence flared at White Hill Field at a concert by Elephant Man. Gangs from Town and Country clashed and a gun was brandished as well as machetes and baseball bats.

Riot police boosted by traffic and plain clothes officers will be deployed at venues and the routes to them, said Mr. Adams. Around 80 extra officers will be on duty.

"We are prepared and will not hesitate to take appropriate action to any action that may arise."

Concerts include Sizzla performing at Shelly Bay tonight and Bounty Killer and Beenie Man at St. David's Cricket Club performing tomorrow and Friday night.

The Royal Gazette understands some hooligans could be planning to stash weapons at concert venues before they begin for possible use later.

However a Police spokesman said nothing had been reported.

Traffic police will also be out in force patrolling key junctions for road violations during Cup Match, warned Mr. Adams and there will be a high profile in the grounds to ensure safety.

Somerset Cricket Club Vice President Alfred Maybury stressed it was a precautionary safety measure and the usual good-natured Cup Match crowd was expected.

"We want to make sure anyone who enters our ground is safe. We are making this known to the public so people can come early."

The gates open at 6 a.m. Cars will not be allowed inside the ground while vendors will also be checked and must have all their cases in by 8 a.m.

Fans with coolers should go via the Broome Street as they cause delays at the other gates.