PHOTOS: Security tightens at Wembley hours before England-France friendly
Armed forces began to sweep the premises around Wembley Stadium in the hours before Tuesday's friendly between England and France.
The match is going ahead as scheduled despite the terrorist attacks on Paris that left 129 people dead last week. The British government and the English FA confirmed that security would heighten on the day of the friendly, which has become a symbol of defiance and an opportunity for tribute in one of football's iconic settings.
Related: Armed police to patrol England-France friendly
The deputy assistant commissioner of the London Metropolitan Police Force asked all ticket holders to arrive earlier than usual and to expect "additional entry searches" at the ground. Officials have also informed fans that tickets aren't available to buy there, with 80,000 people expected in attendance.
Tickets are not available to buy from #Wembley today so fans are asked not to attend tonight's game if they haven't pre-purchased tickets.
— Wembley Stadium (@wembleystadium) November 17, 2015
Police are already taking their positions around Wembley and inspecting its surroundings as the rain comes down on a sombre evening.
