Football fans encouraged to celebrate responsibly during Euros

With Euro 2024 beginning in Germany today (14 June 2024), football fans across the county are reminded to enjoy the tournament responsibly and leave the settling of scores on the pitch.

With thousands of football fans across Cheshire supporting their teams and enjoying the summer competition, the Constabulary is reminding those celebrating the tournament to do so responsibly and to unite with fellow fan groups to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time.

The Constabulary has already rolled out several precautions to keep everyone safe as the events of the tournament unfold. One way officers have been doing this is through Football Banning Orders, issuing them to residents who have previously caused disorder at football events. As part of the orders, these individuals have been required to hand over their passports to police, meaning they cannot travel to Germany to watch the tournament.

The Constabulary is also working in continued partnership with licensed premises to ensure bar and event staff are well prepared to keep people safe during these extra busy periods.

Emotions are likely to run high during the matches, paired with the increased alcohol consumption, football fans are encouraged to walk away from any potentially hostile and violent situations and come together with fellow fans in the spirit of the game.

Increased police resources, such as increased patrols and the deployment of the Safer Streets Safety Bus, will also be in place across busy town centres on match days, with officers on hand to deter any anti-social or criminal behaviour. 

Superintendent Claire Jesson, overseeing Cheshire Police’s policing operation for Euros 2024, said:

“The Euros is a fantastic tournament and should be a time for people to have fun and join in with the celebrations.

"There will be an increased policing presence in Chester, Crewe and Warrington, particularly at licensed premises and fan zone events during evenings and weekends to provide further reassurance.

“To ensure everyone watches the tournament safely, you can expect to see officers out and about across the county making sure people are drinking and behaving responsibly."

With many members of the public looking forward to meeting up with family and friends for a social drink over the Euros tournament, Cheshire’s emergency services are reminding residents of the tragic consequences of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

While it may be tempting to have a drink and then drive home – it is important to remember that even one alcoholic drink can significantly affect a motorist’s ability to react to their surroundings. Football fans are encouraged to make the right decisions when heading home after matches; not to get behind the wheel if they have been drinking or taking recreational drugs.

If you are stopped by police and fail a breathalyser test for alcohol or a test for illegal substances, you will face severe consequences. A drink or drug driving conviction can come with a considerable fine, a driving ban and a criminal record.

Superintendent Jesson added:

"Alcohol and drugs significantly reduce reaction time, making it harder to react quickly to unexpected situations on the road.

"Concentration and vision can also be significantly impaired, making it difficult to see clearly and focus on the task of driving. This combination of factors drastically increases the risk of serious and even fatal collisions.

"If you’re heading to the pub or an event to watch the Euros where there will be alcohol, plan a safe ride home - book a taxi, designate a driver or stop over at a friend’s house. 

"We know how much fans are looking forward to the Euros and it is important people know we aren’t here to spoil the fun, but to instead ensure the minority don’t ruin it for the majority and everyone can celebrate safely."

Anyone who sees any anti-social or suspicious behaviour is asked to report it to an officer or call Cheshire Police on 101.