NOXIOUS AND DANGEROUS

Ex-SFA security expert's safety warning to Old Firm

- BY MARK MCGIVERN

A SECURITY expert has urged the Old Firm to lead the way in taking drastic measures to prevent deaths from toxic pyros.

Peter McLaughlin, who was involved in an SFA crackdown on flares 10 years ago, said the rise of ultra fan groups has seen smokefilled stadiums being tolerated.

He now wants Celtic and Rangers to close off areas of their grounds where the risks could be high.

The clubs are days away from facing each other in the league and are set to meet in a Scottish Cup semi-final this month when more than 50,000 fans will cram into Hampden Park.

McLaughlin said: "If the flares issue continues to pose a risk to the safety of ordinary supporters, players and police, of course local authorities may look to the withdrawal of safety certificates.

"There is a reluctance to do that because there will be huge pressure by the big clubs to avoid going down that route.

"Teams like Celtic and Rangers should take the initiative and shut down any area where there is a clear risk of serious injury.