Managers Ian McCall and Rowan Alexander will go head to head

The two teams meet at Palmerston Park in Dumfries with a bumper crowd expected to attend.

Police have asked fans to be aware of the ban on bringing alcohol and other closed containers into the ground.

They said they hoped it would be a day for the whole family to enjoy with no arrests or ejections from the stadium.

Insp Ian Fraser praised the behaviour of Queen of the South supporters at the recent cup tie with Kilmarnock at Palmerston.

We realise it is the first derby between Queen of the South and Gretna but we are looking for a good day for all Insp Ian Fraser

"It was a big crowd, more than normal, and there were no arrests and no persons ejected from the ground," he said.

"We are delighted at that. Hopefully that will continue on Sunday.

"We realise it is the first derby between Queen of the South and Gretna but we are looking for a good day for all," he added.

'Great day'

He reminded supporters it was an offence to try to get into a ground with a bottle, can or other portable container - no matter what is inside.

"We want everybody to enjoy themselves," he said.

"Hopefully if they can all concur with the laws in relation to alcohol and controlled containers then everybody - adults, children, one and all - can have a great day at Palmerston."

Gretna were admitted to the Scottish league set-up in 2002 but this is the first season they have been in the same division as their local rivals.