Police urge fans to give trouble the red card

Supt Pat Coates has told football fans to expect "firm, fair and friendly policing"

Lincolnshire Police will be stepping up patrols during the Euro 2024 tournament.

Supt Pat Coates said he expected pubs to be busy and urged fans to "take responsibility" for their actions.

Officers would also take a "zero tolerance" stance on drink and drug-driving, with checkpoints in key locations.

"Expect firm, fair and friendly policing. We are not out to spoil your fun, but we will arrest you if needs be,” Supt Coates said.

The tournament, in Germany, begins on Friday and runs until 14 July.

Arrests for drink or drug-driving nearly doubled during the last World Cup in 2022, according to the force.

There were 31 arrests during and after games, compared with an average of 15.75 during the same periods in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2023.

Simon Outen-Coe, of the Lincolnshire Road Safety Partnership, warned motorists not to "score an own goal" and urged people to challenge those considering driving while under the influence.

"Give drink or drug-driving the red card," he added.

Supt Coates warned that officers would be carrying out extra patrols, with checkpoints at key locations for drink and drug testing.

"Have plans in place to get home safely or we will be making other arrangements for you that involve a visit to one of our stations,” he said.

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