Wiltshire people urged to be "team players" during Euro 2020
Police issue advice with concern over increase in anti-social behaviour and violence during major sporting tournaments
Last updated 11th Jun 2021
Police in Wiltshire have issued a call today for everyone to act sportingly during Euro 2020 - which kicks-off today.
Major sporting events are often accompanied by an increase in anti-social behaviour and violence call outs.
The force says that despite the pressures of lockdown its commitment to the safety of communities remains unchanged.
Superintendent Phil Staynings said, "We know there will be a lot of people across the county looking forward to the first major international football tournament in three years and we are prepared to help support our communities enjoy it.
"It will come as a welcome distraction and celebration as lockdown restrictions ease, but we remind everyone that while restrictions are still in place, we should all be playing our part to keep everyone safe from a global pandemic.
"With restrictions currently planned to change during the tournament on June 21, we will work with the local authorities to ensure that licensed premises abide to the current rules until this date and then be ready for the anticipated changes.
"While we want everyone to enjoy themselves, we ask that this doesn’t get carried away and create problems for their communities, many of whom won’t be interested in the football.
"We ask that people drink responsibly- if you do drink, plan your journey home in advance by booking a taxi or having a designated driver and violence of any kind will not be tolerated.
"We also want to remind people that hate has no place in our communities and support the home nations in trying to eradicate this from sport and will tackle reports of hate crime robustly."
Cllr Simon Jacobs, Wiltshire Council Cabinet Member for Public Health and Public Protection, said, "The Euros will be a time for many to have some much-needed fun and get caught up in the excitement, particularly after this difficult year or so.
"It’s still so important though that people continue to keep COVID-19 at the forefront of their minds and adhere to any restrictions that are in place, as we really don’t want to undo any of the recent progress that everyone has contributed to and made sacrifices to achieve.
"If we all play our part, work together and support each other, then we will make an unbeatable team and help show COVID-19 the red card."
There are currently nine people subject to football banning orders that report to police stations in Wiltshire.