Police warn troublemakers that disorder will not be tolerated this World Cup

Cumbria Constabulary is urging football fans to enjoy the World Cup safely as they launch a month long campaign tackling drunken violence and anti-social behaviour this week.

Assistant Chief Constable Jerry Graham, in charge of the policing operation during the competition, said: “We want everyone to enjoy the World Cup safely so we are asking football fans to help us ensure this happens by drinking responsibly and steering clear of trouble.

“Nearly half of all violent incidents are alcohol related so, with numbers of football fans heading to our pubs to watch the matches expected to increase over the coming weeks, we have launched a campaign to remind people to keep hold of their senses.

“We will be taking a tough approach to disorder and running targeted high visibility patrols at key times throughout the competition to reassure local people and deal with disorder swiftly and robustly. We have increased officer numbers on match days to staff extra police foot patrols based around the pubs and clubs who will be dedicated to preventing disorder and helping ensure each match passes as safely as possible.

“Our warning to potential troublemakers is if you cause problems in our pubs and clubs you will be caught, you will be prosecuted and in many cases you will be banned. Our pubs are supporting this by displaying posters, beer mats and tent cards created by the Constabulary and Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships (CDRP's), which will act as a stark reminder and a warning of the dangers associated with drunken violence and disorder.

“Over the last month we have been planning for the event with our partners in the CDRP's around the county to help ensure each match passes safely and enjoyably. As part of this our community safety and Neighbourhood Policing Teams have been working closely with licensees in pubs and clubs around the county to provide advice and support to help them get prepared. By taking some simple steps like; ensuring there are enough bar staff to manage the increased numbers, using plastic glasses, steering clear of drinks promotions and using registered doorstaff who are adequately prepared with high visibility clothing, licensees can help ensure everyone is able to enjoy a safe and disorder-free World Cup."

“I am confident that by working together and taking responsibility for our behaviour we can all help make this World Cup safe and enjoyable for all.”