A message from Merseyside Police ahead of the Euros

Merseyside Police are encouraging football fans to enjoy the Euros safely as the tournament kicks off today (Friday 11 June).

It is expected venues around Merseyside will be busier when key matches are being played during the tournament, which runs until the final on 11 July.

We’re reminding fans to plan ahead, stay safe and respect covid-19 rules. 

Superintendent Chris Joughin said: "We want people across Merseyside to enjoy the Euros.  We’ve had a long wait for this tournament after it was postponed last year because of Covid-19 and it should be a great event. 

"While we do not want to spoil anyone's fun, we will not tolerate anti-social or criminal behaviour under any circumstances.

"We know around half of all violent crimes committed are alcohol related and that if you drink at home, then go out, you are more likely to be involved in violence, either as a victim or as an offender.

"We want people to ask themselves whether they want to have their night ended early – possibly even before a match has kicked off - because they are refused entry to a pub or bar having consumed too much alcohol too early. Drink sensibly and enjoy watching the games with friends.

“We want to make it clear that celebration, inflamed passion, and excess alcohol during a football game are no excuse for domestic abuse. 

“If you are a victim of domestic abuse please come forward and report it to us, we can help you and support you. We have increased our numbers of dedicated domestic abuse investigators working closely with our partners. This helps us to provide protection and safety for victims and their families and bring offenders of these abhorrent crimes to justice. 

"Merseyside is a welcoming, friendly place - there are people from all over Europe who live in and visit the area. We simply do not tolerate hate crime in any form – whether during the tournament or otherwise. 

“We thoroughly investigate all reports of hate crime, and take every incident extremely seriously. We would urge victims of hate crime to report offences so that we can take prompt action. Across Merseyside, we have a number of third party reporting centres available to anyone who doesn't want to call the police in the first instance including the charity Stope Hate UK who can be contacted on 0800 138 1625. Support networks such as the Anthony Walker Foundation also provide emotional support, practical assistance, and information to anyone requesting help.

“Football is a spectator sport and we expect lots of establishments to be busier when matches are being played, particularly those involving England, Scotland and Wales. 

“This means that everyone wanting to enjoy the tournament may need to plan ahead and think about where they’re watching the games and how they’re getting home. 

“If you’re planning on having a drink while you’re watching the game, leave your car at home and take a taxi or public transport.  Don’t risk your life and those of others by drink driving. 

“Finally, but importantly, we want everyone to remember that Covid-19 still poses a risk to public health and there are still some restrictions in place.  These include no more than 30 people together outdoors, no more than six people or two households together indoors, social distancing and wearing a mask when indoors.

“Whatever team you’re following throughout the tournament, let’s all play our part by staying safe, respecting each other and helping to stop the spread of Covid-19.”

You can report any concerns to us via @MerPolCC on Twitter, by calling 101, or calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Always call 999 in an emergency.