Return of the men’s football World Cup

Football fans are gearing up for the World Cup starting this week, with pubs and bars expected to be much busier as a result – and we’re ready to support fans in enjoying the tournament with extra patrols in our towns on match days.

The tournament will run from today (21 November) until 18 December with matches broadcast live on TV and radio.

Those planning to enjoy the tournament are reminded to drink responsibly, and pubs and off-licences are reminded of their responsibilities not to serve alcohol to people who are clearly drunk. Officers will be conducting extra patrols across our towns during fixtures to act as deterrent to the minority who may think about committing a violent act, and will uphold the law where needed.

The Lincolnshire Police Licensing Team and Neighbourhood Policing Teams have been working closely with Local Authorities and Pub Watch groups, to share information, understand plans and minimise the risk of crime and disorder.

Superintendent Lee Pache, Lincolnshire Football Lead, said: “The World Cup is a huge competition for any football fan, so the return of the tournament this week is going to be met with great enthusiasm by many. We expect that during many of the fixtures, pubs and bars will be much more popular than usual, and we’re asking everyone celebrating the games to do their part in socialising and drinking responsibly.

"We know these matches will bring with them great anticipation and excitement, and we know that our diverse community in Lincolnshire means that there will be supporters from a number of different nations looking forward to cheering their team on. We’d call for everyone to be respectful of different nationalities celebrating their team’s performance.

"There is nothing to suggest that the tournament will bring anything other than support and celebration, and our proactive engagement with pubs and local authorities, as well as increased patrols, is usual practice to keep our communities safe.”