HIGHWAY chiefs and the police are cracking down on illegal parking scams in Old Trafford - particularly when United are playing at home.

Residents and football supporters claim they are being intimidated and conned by the fraudsters who are running the illegal operations.

The council and police are working closely together to tackle the problem, gathering information to identify the culprits and the sites where they are operating unauthorised parking areas.

There will also be improved signing of approved car parks and warning notices to fans will be in place by the start of next season.

Cllr Pauleen Lane, deputy leader of the council, says: "We want to make life easier for fans to know where they should and should not park. New 'residents only' parking areas will mean that fans must now find an appropriate parking location. We have been working this season to identify and upgrade 'approved' car parks for which there are now permanent, standard signs showing a football on a proper, permanent highway sign. Fans need to be aware that if they park on a pavement in a 'residents only' area, on a verge, in an alleyway, or anywhere that is not clearly marked as an official parking place, then they are at risk of being fined, clamped or even towed away.

"If they give money to anyone to park in any of these unofficial locations, they will simply end up paying twice. The message to fans is to find a proper parking place."

Supt David Ryder, from Greater Manchester Police, adds: "We intend to work closely with the council on this issue. The first step on this joint initiative is to continue gathering information and intelligence on the individuals involved. Together with the council we will then take firm action when that evidence has been obtained. This action may take different forms, but I am sure that it will ultimately resolve the problem and improve the confidence and quality of life for both residents and visitors to the Trafford area."