Police will be stepping up patrols and domestic violence support to coincide with England match days during Euro 2024.

With England kicking off their Euro 2024 campaign in Germany this afternoon, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary are asking the public to watch and celebrate the tournament safely.

Large numbers of people are expected to gather in pubs, clubs and homes to enjoy the atmosphere and excitement. 

READ MORE: The Southampton pubs and bars showing Euro 2024 matches

Chief Inspector Chris Spellerberg said: "Euro 2024 will be a fantastic event and we want people to enjoy watching the tournament with friends and families in the right spirit.

“We know the vast majority of supporters will enjoy themselves responsibly with no interest in causing trouble. However, for a minority, with alcohol and warmer weather combined, that excitement can spill over into anti-social behaviour, disorder and domestic abuse.

“We will not tolerate such behaviour and will relentlessly pursue those who use the event to commit crime and disorder.

“On England match days we will have more officers maintaining a highly visible and reassuring presence to keep our communities safe for everyone. Please do come and say hello and tell our officers about any issues that concern you."

Across the UK during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, there was a 26 per cent increase in reported incidents of domestic violence after a win or draw, a 38 per cent increase after a defeat and an 11 per cent increase the next day, win or lose.

Police have added extra resources for key dates over the Euro 2024 football tournament to 'provide the best response for domestic abuse victims and their families', a spokesman said.

"We will be deploying joint patrol cars, teaming officers with Independent Domestic Violence Advocates to provide an effective response to incidents, courtesy of the force’s partnership with the charity Aurora New Dawn," they added.