Football fans are being urged to exercise patience on Tuesday night as a derby is expected to draw large crowds to transport links.

British Transport Police Chief Inspector Jim Little said supporters going to the Championship match between Charlton Athletic and Crystal Palace at the Valley should also stagger journeys.

He said a excess of 15,000 people were expected to attend the match which kicks off at 7.45pm.

He said: "With such a large number of football fans, combined with regular commuter traffic, we will have officers out in force to assist with crowd management.

"Busy rush hour commuter rail services will run before the game on a normal schedule and no extra train services will be available.

"Fans are to be reminded that the kick off will not be delayed for them if they do not make it to the ground before 7.45pm and they are urged to arrive at the Valley turnstiles in plenty of time to assist police and stewards.

He added: "For those people who do choose to travel and use the line to Charlton, we would ask them to be patient while we work with rail staff to ensure everyone gets to their destinations in safety."

He said fans were also urged to be considerate of other commuters and not to overindulge in alcohol.

"We’re not here to spoil the fun but people have the right to travel on the railway network and go about their business in safety and without being subjected to offensive or drunken behaviour and such behaviour will be dealt with appropriately."