Quickly exit this site by pressing the Escape key Leave this site
We use some essential cookies to make our website work. We’d like to set additional cookies so we can remember your preferences and understand how you use our site.
You can manage your preferences and cookie settings at any time by clicking on “Customise Cookies” below. For more information on how we use cookies, please see our Cookies notice.
Your cookie preferences have been saved. You can update your cookie settings at any time on the cookies page.
Your cookie preferences have been saved. You can update your cookie settings at any time on the cookies page.
Sorry, there was a technical problem. Please try again.
This site is a beta, which means it's a work in progress and we'll be adding more to it over the next few weeks. Your feedback helps us make things better, so please let us know what you think.
With the Euros starting on Friday (14 June) Warwickshire Police has joined police forces across the country to encourage people to ‘walk away’ from trouble.
Warwickshire Police will have extra officers on duty during the tournament, especially at the time of England matches.
Reports of violence often increase during football tournaments as people come together in busy pubs and bars to watch games, often consuming more alcohol than normal.
Research shows that most incidents are caused by small triggers, something as basic as an error in judgement, a spilled drink, or a rude comment.
Warwickshire Police is supporting the ‘Walk Away’ campaign that aims to equip football fans with practical steps they can take, when safe to do so, to de-escalate a heated situation, including:
Chief Inspector Jo Bunting, from the Warwickshire Police Operations Team, said: “We’ll have extra officers on duty during the tournament to help keep people safe. You will see an increased policing presence on the streets of our town centres during England matches and we have plans in place all the way to the final! We’re also working with licensed premises to ensure bar and event staff are well prepared to keep people safe. Unfortunately, when you mix alcohol, football and a busy pub, tempers can sometimes fray. It doesn’t have to escalate, a quick apology or walking your mate away from trouble can make all the difference."
Chief Constable Mark Roberts, NPCC lead for Football Policing, said: “Football brings us together, and it should be a cause for celebration and comradery. “We need the support of football fans to stop heightened emotion and tensions spilling out of the pitch and into mindless violence in our communities. “Split second decisions made in the heat of the moment can have devastating, lifelong impact on everyone involved. Take heed of the message and walk away from violence.”
Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the British Beer and Pub Association: “Whether you’re there to watch the football, enjoy some live music, or just a night out with friends, a visit to the pub should be about creating great memories in a safe and inclusive space. “Walk Away provides a strong message along with simple steps for all pub-goers that might find themselves in a situation that needs de-escalating. We hope this campaign helps to create memorable nights out, for all the right reasons.”