World Cup 2010

Date published: 25 June 2010

Following England’s progress from the group stages of the World Cup Lancashire Constabulary is advising football fans to have fun but drink sensibly as the nation continues to enjoy the football.

There will be high-visibility patrols in town centres on the match days and licensed premises will be visited to spread the sensible drinking message.

And across the county road-side check points will also be used to target drink drivers.

Assistant Chief Constable Andy Rhodes, who is heading up the policing operation during the tournament, said: “I’m sure everyone is looking forward to continuing to watch England and rightly so – it’s a big event and we all want to be able to enjoy it.

“it will be our job to make sure that everyone can enjoy it and that those who want to have a drink as well, drink responsibly.”

He added: “There will be extra officers on the street - not because of any intelligence to suggest disorder, but purely because of the number of people expected to be out and about in the pubs and clubs watching the various matches.

“We want to see a carnival atmosphere with good natured fun; and if we see anything less - anyone acting in a violent or anti-social manner for example – they will be dealt with swiftly.”

Police are also warning domestic abuse offenders that they are being watched and that their behaviour will not be tolerated, while at the same time encouraging victims to come forward.

Mr Rhodes said: “There is evidence which shows that cases of domestic abuse can rise by up to 30 per cent on England match days but I must make it clear that there is no excuse for domestic violence and perpetrators should be clear that the World Cup does not give them any justification for their actions.”