Specialist officers from Devon and Cornwall are in Germany helping to police Euro | News

The Force also urges fans here to be sensitive

Specially trained police officers from Devon & Cornwall is away in Germany helping to keep the Euros safe and supporting the tournament.

England fans were left jubilant last night as Jude Bellingham starred in a 1-0 win over Serbia to kick off the nation’s Euro 2024 campaign – while before that police in Germany separated football fans after clashes from the city of Gelsenkirchen.

Ahead of the game, Acting Chief Jim Colwell said his officers were working to keep people safe both here and abroad – urging fans to be sensible.

In an update on the teams that have traveled to Germany, ACC Colwell said: “They are generally our football experts, our football observers.

“They work as part of the national network of football police officers who are well-informed about the information surrounding those individuals who pose the greatest risk of wanting to disrupt or cause harm or violence.

“They will work with other agencies, both in the UK and in Europe, just to identify those people – possibly even before they travel – and take steps to minimize the risk they pose.”

A force spokesman added: “Everyone is always excited to follow the progress of the national team and many will be making plans to watch the matches with friends and family.

“However, police are clear that alcohol is no excuse for bad behaviour, win, lose or draw. Alcohol can and will change people’s behavior. With emotions running high, things can easily go from friendly banter to something more aggressive.”

While no one can control the final score, you can end the night on your own terms by drinking responsibly and putting your safety and the safety of others first.

“There is the potential for drivers to continue to exceed the morning limit. Many still don’t realize how long it takes for alcohol to leave the body. A morning coffee is not the answer, the only solution is time. So please think about how you’re going to get home after the final whistle.”

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