Graham Taylor statue fenced off for Watford Luton clash at Vicarage Road

Fencing has been put up outside the Watford's stadium today ahead of Sunday’s midday clash.

It will run along Vicarage Road from the corner of Occupation Road towards the away fans’ entrance.

On matchday, there will be no access to the statue nor to the club shop, which will be closed for the day.

Read more: Watford midfielder Louza ruled out for months

The fencing will be pulled forward on matchday meaning there will be no access to the statue or the club shop (Image: Newsquest)

It is the second time Watford has taken steps to protect the statue since it was unveiled in 2018 as an honour to the club’s greatest ever manager, who died in January 2017.

Boards were placed over the statue for Watford’s game against Luton in 2020 even though no fans were in attendance due to the pandemic.

The statue was boarded up completely for Luton's last visit in 2020, pictured, even though no fans were in attendance (Image: Newsquest)

Unlike in 2020, fans from both sides will be in attendance, but the statue will also be visible to fans this time round. However, the fencing should restrict anyone from being able to get near it and potentially vandalising it.

The club declined to officially comment on the decision to put up the fencing but is is a joint decision with police.

The Observer has been speaking to locals in Vicarage Road for their thoughts, with one who works near the hospital saying: "It's sad that they have got to do it but it's got to be done."

A woman, who gave her name as Linda and lives in Oxford Street, said: "It's a bit obtrusive and unsightly but if they really feel it is necessary that it is going to be damaged, then they have to do something."

The Graham Taylor statue in Vicarage Road has been protected by fencing (Image: Newsquest)

Michael Martino, who lives in Liverpool Road, added: "It needs to be protected because there is a possibility things will be thrown at it [statue].

"But I'm not worried about trouble on Sunday, it will be heavily policed."

But another man from Watford said he did not agree with giving the statue protection, claiming "it shows weakness". 

Michael Martino, who lives in nearby Liverpool Road, says he can understand why the club has taken the decision to put up fencing (Image: Newsquest)

Earlier this week, the Hornets announced in a joint-statement with Hertfordshire Constabulary that fans can expect to see a “significant” police presence with the “main aim of promoting public safety”.

After Sunday’s game, home and away fans will be asked to follow allocated and separate routes away from the ground in a bid to avoid any disorder.  

Read more: Police outline Watford v Luton safety plans ahead of derby

Chief Superintendent Nick Caveney has warned rivalry is “not an excuse for disorder” and said officers will be on hand to prevent trouble.

Meanwhile, some pubs in the town have announced they will be closed on Sunday because of the game.

Read more: Watford pubs make 'responsible' decision to stay shut for Luton visit

Have you got a story for us? You can contact us here.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up with all the latest news.

To receive breaking news alerts or newsletters sign up here.

Check out our Watford crime and court Facebook page here.