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Football fans in Greater Manchester are being encouraged to stay safe and make the most of public transport as Euro 2024 games are shown at venues across the city-region.
With thousands of fans across the region are expected to gather over drinks to watch the games, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is advising people to take extra care when boarding or departing trams on the Metrolink, and crossing tram tracks, as alcohol can affect judgement and co-ordination.
The Safer Roads Greater Manchester Partnership is also raising awareness of the dangers and of driving after consuming alcohol or taking drugs, with police recording high number of arrests for drink/drug driving offences during previous major football tournaments.?
Chief Inspector Michael Parker from Greater Manchester Police’s Road Policing Unit said:
“We know that football fans will be out and about enjoying Euro 2024, and while we don’t want to discourage people from enjoying the tournament, we want everyone to stay safe and ensure lives are not put at risk.?
“Driving while under the influence of alcohol can have devastating consequences, so if you’re going out to watch a match and know you’ll be drinking, remove the temptation to get behind the wheel by planning your journey home in advance. Same applies the next morning – ask yourself if you’re safe to drive before getting in the car.?
“We have comprehensive patrol plans in place to provide extra visibility, deter crime and antisocial behaviour and reassure members of the public who will be out watching the football. Whatever the results are, we are urging everyone to behave responsibly, look out for one another and be mindful of the impact that negative behaviour can have on fellow supporters and our communities.?”
Fran Wilkinson, Customer and Growth Director at Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), said:
“We’re looking forward to everyone enjoying the Euros and following every twist and turn of at looks sure to be a really exciting tournament. ?
“Our message to football fans heading out to catch the game on a big screen is to stay safe by using public transport – don’t risk having a drink and then getting behind the wheel of a car.?
“Wherever you’re going to watch the games, make sure you have a smooth journey there and back by allowing yourself plenty of time and planning ahead using the Bee Network app or website.
“While emotions can run high during big football tournament please also be considerate of others when using public transport, and refrain from behaving in ways that could cause annoyance or make people feel uncomfortable or intimidated.”?