SPECIAL measures are being taken to cope with heavy traffic and the influx of fans expected as the international cricket roadshow reaches the North-East.

Durham's Riverside ground at Chester-le-Street hosts the fifth NatWest Series one-day international on Thursday, as England take on India.

A crowd of about 15,000 is anticipated for the Riverside's first day-night international match. Play begins at 2.30pm and runs through to possibly 10.30pm, with the second innings floodlit.

Eighty police officers and special constables will be on duty, backed by more than 200 stewards provided by Durham County Cricket Club and Chester-le-Street District Council.

About 5,300 parking spaces have been set aside in designatedcar parks, while traffic wardens will be on duty in nearby streets checking for illegal parking or vehicles causing an obstruction.

Local residents have been issued with passes for the day.

Police advise anyone not going to the cricket to avoid the area, particularly between 1pm and 2.45pm when traffic is expected to peak.

In a bid to alleviate pressure caused by vehicles coming off the A1(M) at Chester-le-Street's Blind Lane interchange, traffic travelling from the south will be advised to leave the motorway via junction 59, at Aycliffe, and travel north on the A167.

At close of play, traffic from south car parks will be funnelled left at the B1284 roundabout towards Ropery Lane, and vehicles from the north car parks will turn right towards Great Lumley.

Spectators are reminded they are not allowed to take alcohol into the ground, although drink will be on sale throughout the day from the Riverside's licensed bars.

Durham CCC staff will be responsible for enforcing ground regulations, assisted by police if fans misbehave.

Inspector Dave Marshall warned that pitch invasions would not be tolerated, with anyone entering the playing area facing arrest and prosecution.

"Such behaviour is largely due to exuberance for the game, but it causes players and officials alarm, and poses a health and safety risk.

"A huge amount of effort has gone into the planning of the game, and people can help us and themselves by setting off in good time and making for the designated car parks."