Enjoy the big game safely, urge police

Enjoy the big England vs Croatia safely tomorrow, wherever you may be watching

Police officers are going to be on the ball tomorrow (Wednesday) to make sure football fans enjoy the World Cup semi-final match safely.

As part of plans by Manchester City Council to host a screening of the fixture at Castlefield Bowl in Manchester City Centre, extra officers will also be out in force.

Some of these officers will be working additional hours on top of their normal shift, while others have given up their rest day and time off so they can help police tomorrow's event for football fans.

GMP has been working with partners and licensed premises throughout this World Cup to help fans across Greater Manchester enjoy the games in good spirits and safe environments.

And for this momentous occasion there will be a significant number of officers in the city centre in particular.

An increased police presence will also been seen across Greater Manchester’s town centres for those watching the fixture in pubs and bars.

Chief Superintendent Graeme Openshaw, who is in charge of policing during the Wold Cup, said: “The vast majority of fans have been enjoying England’s success in a good-natured way and there have been no significant issues so far.

“We want people to have fun while watching this milestone match and we understand that people will want to continue the celebrations if England win and make it to the final.

“But fans have to strike a balance and we’d ask people not to over step the line and be respectful of others around them.

“Unfortunately, we are aware that people have been climbing on emergency services vehicles and blocking buses - not only this dangerous but this is also stopping people from doing an important job.

“Our goal is ultimately to make sure you are safe and we will not tolerate abusive or anti-social behaviour of any kind.

“We’d ask the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious behaviour.

“If you have any concerns, please flag them with an officer or any security staff, and they will do anything they can to help.”

Reports to police can be made by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.