As the UEFA European Football Championships start today Friday (11th June) Lancashire Constabulary are reminding supporters to celebrate safely and responsibly.

After a difficult year with lockdown restrictions and not being able to fully enjoy social occasions, many people in Lancashire are awaiting the Euros with some anticipation.

The Force’s aim is to make sure everyone enjoys the summer and the football safely. As such, extra officers will be on the streets particularly during key games to keep people safe and target those who choose to behave violently or abusively.

Ch Insp Mark Morley, from the Tactical Operation Unit at Lancashire Constabulary, said: “We don’t want to spoil anyone’s fun and whilst we know many people will be looking forward to supporting their team and watching the matches with friends and family responsibly, we do want to remind those few who choose to spoil things that anti-social, abusive, careless or violent behaviour will not be tolerated and that there will be consequences. By enjoying the matches, respecting others and behaving sensibly we can all make Euro 2020 memorable in Lancashire for the right reasons.”

Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Andrew Snowden added: "I am sure many of us feel passionate about football and supporting our team but that can never be an excuse for any kind of violence or anti-social behaviour.

"The majority of people will be looking forward to enjoying the Euros safely and it's unacceptable for individuals to become violent or aggressive and to spoil that experience.

"I fully support Lancashire Constabulary's approach to policing across the Euros and I am confident that those who break the law will be dealt with fairly but robustly."

Let’s summer safely
We want everyone to enjoy themselves this summer, so remember:

• COVID restrictions remain in place: This means during the first week of games if you’re watching inside, you can only do so seated, with up to five others
• Plan ahead to avoid getting stranded on a night out by booking a cab home in advance
• There’s no safe drink/drug drive limit. Both drink/drug driving costs lives
• The morning after a night’s drinking applies too - you could still be over the limit the next day