POLICE today called on people to play their part this weekend ahead of England’s Euro 2020 quarter-final with Ukraine in Rome.

They say they’re pleased the tournament, which is now entering the final week, has passed relatively peacefully across the county.

On Tuesday night, when England scored a 2-0 win against Germany in the round of 16, officers recorded 20 incidents across both Wiltshire and Swindon, making a total of six arrests.

Officers will continue to increase their presence across the county tomorrow and are working closely with the local authorities and licensed premises to ensure that fans enjoy themselves responsibly.

Superintendent Phil Staynings said: “It is great to see the national team doing so well at the tournament and we understand the excitement that comes with that.

“We just ask people to be mindful of not letting that euphoria spill over into criminal activity.

“Whilst, to date, we have had a good response from the public and the celebrations have been well mannered, we have seen an increase in anti-social behaviour in relation to the England games.

“We stress, especially being a weekend, that people drink responsibly and don’t let their actions impact negatively on the community.

“Drink driving or violence of any kind will not be tolerated by Wiltshire Police and there is no excuse for it."

Police say that while Wiltshire remains in the final step of the road map out of lockdown, people should continue to take personal responsibility in protecting themselves and the wider community from Covid by following the Government guidelines.

Supt Staynings added: "There has been a trend in the use of pyrotechnic devices, including smoke bombs. We’d like to remind people of the genuine risk they pose to the person using them and the wider public, especially indoors, where they pose a serious fire risk.

"Our commitment, as it has been throughout the tournament, is ensuring public safety, including preventing violence, both in public places and at home, and tackling hate crime."

People are encouraged to report anything or anyone they are concerned about via 101 on online at www.wiltshire.police.uk/ro/report. Always call 999 in an emergency.

You can also report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.