TRAFFORD is gearing up for a busy weekend of events – so make sure to plan ahead.

Tonight, Friday June 3, up to 15,000 cricket fans will descend on Emirates Old Trafford (Lancashire County Cricket Ground) to watch Lancashire Lightning take on rivals Yorkshire Vikings in the T20 Blast.

The match is due to start at 6.30pm so the roads are expected to be busier than normal, as well as the Altrincham, East Didsbury and Eccles Metrolink lines.

On Sunday, June 5, the annual UNICEF Soccer Aid will take place at Old Trafford, with a full house expected as celebrities, including One Direction singers, compete in the charity football match. Kickoff is at 8pm.

Altrincham East Didsbury and Eccles trams are expected to be busier and there will be extra trams to cope with the high demand. The road network around the stadium is also expected to be busy.

It is not only sporting events bringing an influx of people to Trafford this weekend.

The Ideal Homes Exhibition is being held at EventCity, next to the Trafford Centre, until Sunday June 5, affecting roads around the shopping district and the M60.

Drivers are being advised to allow more time to travel and use public transport where possible.

John Fryer, events manager at Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), said: “There’s a lot going on this weekend and with Parklife set to follow the weekend after, it’s going to be a busy few weeks ahead.

“As always, we’d advise people to plan their journeys before setting off and if possible, purchase travel tickets in advance. If travelling to or during any major event then please allow extra for your journey.”

For more information visit tfgm.com.