Campaign to tackle domestic abuse during Euros

Cumbria Police said officers in plain-clothes would intervene when trouble flared during the football tournament

A police force has launched a campaign to tackle domestic abuse and violence during Euro 2024.

Cumbria Police said it would employ extra measures to tackle offenders and protect potential victims during the football tournament.

The force said occasions of "heightened emotions and alcohol" during such events can lead to a rise in abuse cases.

Det Supt Matt Scott, head of public protection at Cumbria Police, said more officers would be on hand to intervene when trouble flared.

'Football not the cause'

Euro 2024 begins on Thursday and England's first match against Serbia takes place on Sunday.

Mr Scott said: “Let’s be clear - football is not a cause of domestic abuse, but environments involving high emotions and alcohol consumption can sometimes lead to violent or abusive behaviour.

“We want anyone who is following the football this summer to enjoy it.

“Domestic abuse and protecting vulnerable people are priorities for us all year round, but what we are doing during this tournament is enhancing our response at a time we know could lead to more reports.”

Mr Scott said plain-clothes police would be mingling in the community, pubs and clubs, watching for "signs of predatory behaviour".

He also said that help would be available to help abusers address their behaviour.

During the Euros police will be also be signposting victims to charities where they can get further support including Victim Support Cumbria and the Freedom Project West Cumbria.