May 25 – Authorities in Lens have slapped a 24-hour town centre alcohol ban on fans attending Euro 2016 games in the city, including the England-Wales showdown, amid concerns of possible misconduct.
The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) confirmed the French police have issued an alcohol ban from 6am to 6am during all games taking place in the small northern city, which has a population of just 36,000.
During the 24-hour period alcohol will be banned in all public areas, including car and coach parks and shuttle buses. Alcohol will still be served in bars and cafes and in the fan zone.
French authorities will be searching cars travelling into Lens while anyone without tickets for matches or fan zones have been told not to travel. The ban also covers Albania v Switzerland, and the Czech Republic v Turkey group games, as well as one round-of-16 match.
“There is no excuse for violence, disorder or anti-social behaviour at football matches,” said Mark Roberts, the National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for football policing. “Troublemakers will be dealt with by French police in line with their laws and can expect a banning order on return to the UK.”
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