THE council is cracking down on illegal parking outside Old Trafford on the days of Manchester United matches – but Trafford's Tories are claiming credit for the action.

Trafford Council is working with the police and the Red Devils themselves to tackle supporters leaving vehicles in unauthorised areas including paths and roundabouts.

It claims the illegal parking is a danger to other people, as well as an obstruction to the emergency services.

Over Christmas, almost 800 penalty charges of up to £70 were given out to vehicles left in authorised areas.

Cllr Steve Adshead, the council's executive member for environmental and regulatory services, said: "We don’t tolerate indiscriminate parking in our borough and we certainly won’t let it happen around Old Trafford on matchdays.

"The majority of fans who drive to the game park sensibly and legally. But we will crack down on those who park illegally without consideration for the safety of others."

Cllr Adshead also asked supporters to travel to Manchester United matches on public transport, with multiple Metrolink stations within walking distance of Old Trafford.

Chief Inspector Steven Prescott, of GMP Trafford, added: "While the majority of fans attend games and are gracious and respectful of others, there are some who are disregarding the safety of others and are parking their cars in illegal areas surrounding the Old Trafford stadium.

"This is unacceptable and irresponsible. We want to make sure fans can fully enjoy the games and have a pleasurable experience."

After Trafford Council announced the crackdown, members of the area's Conservative Party association made their own response.

Stuart Donnelly from Stretford and Urmston Conservatives welcomed the action, but said it was down to one of their campaigns.

He said: "It is welcome that the council has announced that they and GMP will start taking some enforcement action on matchdays, but why have they waited until local Conservatives have recently commenced a community campaign on the very same issue?

"The council and GMP should have been taking effective enforcement action at every match, not waiting to be shamed into action by others."