POLICE are advising people across Dorset of the consequences of drinking too much and letting their emotions get the better of them during this summer’s Euro 2020 tournament.

This summer’s showpiece event sees England, Scotland and Wales all in action across various venues – including Wembley Stadium.

Officers are spreading the message that “alcohol isn’t an excuse for bad behaviour”, ahead of football’s oldest international fixture, England against Scotland, on Friday night.

Assistant Chief Constable Sam de Reya said: “Most people just want to enjoy the football and support their teams. On the eve of England versus Scotland, we want to remind people that alcohol is not an excuse for bad behaviour, and we will be taking a robust stance in dealing with any perpetrators of anti-social behaviour, violent crime and those who decide to drive when drunk.

“Our licensing teams are working closely with partner agencies, bars, pubs and social clubs to help them prepare for the tournament, to make them aware of their responsibilities and to encourage people to drink responsibly.

“This year is unique as the tournament takes place whilst we are still in partial Covid restrictions, so social distancing, table service and limited capacity will be in place for many locations.”

Bournemouth Echo: England fans celebrate their win at the fan zone in Trafford Park, Manchester after watching the UEFA Euro 2020 Group D match between England and Croatia held at Wembley Stadium. Picture date: Sunday June 13, 2021. PA Photo. See PA story SOCCER England.

Many licensed premises have now reopened following a relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions, with many fans expected to watch matches in pubs and clubs across the force area.

England’s next group stage match against the Scots is to be played at Wembley Stadium, with lick-off at 8pm.

With fans expected to drink copious amounts of alcohol during the game, police have urged people still abide by current Covid-19 guidelines and not drive whilst under the influence of alcohol.

Bournemouth Echo: Croatia’s Ante Rebic (left) and England’s Tyrone Mings battle for the ball during the pair’s Euro 2020 group match at Wembley      Pic: Nick Potts

ACC de Reya added: “With the delay in the Government moving into Step 4 of their Roadmap we expect that many will choose watch the match at home. Everyone needs to ensure that they are following the Covid-19 guidelines which means limiting the number of people you meet with indoors to a maximum of two households or up to six people from different households.

“During the Euros there is increased potential for drivers to still be over the limit the morning after as some of the matches are scheduled in the evening, and people may be drinking later than they usually would.

“Many still do not realise how long it takes for alcohol to be out of your system. A morning coffee isn’t the answer, the only solution is time; it can easily take until the afternoon following a night of drinking before alcohol is fully out of your system.

“We are reminding people to be sensible, not get too carried away and to drink responsibly. Please don’t drink and drive as you could lose your licence, your job or even take a life - it’s simply not worth the risk.”