POLICE have issued a warning to football fans as Euro 2024 kicks off.

The international competition gets underway in Germany today (June 14) with fans across Cheshire eagerly awaiting a summer of football.

Cheshire Police are stepping up patrols and have reminded residents to enjoy the football responsibly.

Superintendent Claire Jesson, overseeing the force’s policing operation for Euros 2024, said: “The Euros is a fantastic tournament and should be a time for people to have fun and join in with the celebrations

“To ensure everyone watches the tournament safely, you can expect to see officers out and about across the county making sure people are drinking and behaving responsibly."

Cheshire Police have already rolled out several precautions to keep everyone safe throughout the tournament.

Football Banning Orders have been issued to residents who have previously caused disorder at football events.

These individuals have been required to hand over their passports to police, meaning they cannot travel to Germany to watch the tournament.

Increased police resources, such as increased patrols and the deployment of the Safer Streets Safety Bus, will also be in place across busy town centres such as Warrington, Chester and Crewe on match days.

Police are also working with licensed premises to ensure bar and event staff are well prepared to keep people safe during these extra busy periods.

With many members of the public looking forward to meeting up for a social drink over the Euros, Superintendent Jesson has reminded residents of the consequences of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

She said: "Alcohol and drugs significantly reduce reaction time, making it harder to react quickly to unexpected situations on the road.

"Concentration and vision can also be significantly impaired, making it difficult to see clearly and focus on the task of driving. This combination of factors drastically increases the risk of serious and even fatal collisions.

"If you’re heading to the pub or an event to watch the Euros where there will be alcohol, plan a safe ride home - book a taxi, designate a driver or stop over at a friend’s house.

"We know how much fans are looking forward to the Euros and it is important people know we aren’t here to spoil the fun, but to instead ensure the minority don’t ruin it for the majority and everyone can celebrate safely."

Anyone who sees any anti-social or suspicious behaviour is asked to report it to an officer or call Cheshire Police on 101.