A EURO 2020 message

It’s coming home, isn’t it?

As we approach the final (yes, final!) on Sunday, we have just one message for you: please don’t ruin it for everyone else.

Last night, officers were patrolling across the county to make sure everyone felt safe during the EURO2020 celebrations.

From Stanford-le-Hope to Southend, Billericay to Clacton, the majority of people we engaged with, and pubs we went into, were enjoying the football responsibly.

However, we know that some places kicked off after kick-out and we won’t accept behaviour that puts other people at risk.

Three men – a 23-year-old man from Woolwich and two men, aged 35 and 37 and from Grays - were arrested at a pub in Great Warley after a fight broke out; a 21-year-old man from North Benfleet was arrested after bottles were thrown in Southchurch Road in Southend and we later cordoned off the town’s High Street so that people could be dispersed safely.

In Colchester, crowds took to Head Street and the High Street and we arrested two men - a 21-year-old from West Yorkshire and a 25-year-old from Kirby-le-Soken - on suspicion of committing a public order offence. Officers also ensured that crowds dispersed in Newland Street in Witham after reports of disorder.

We made sure that, across the county, most people were able to celebrate and get home safely.

Don’t score an own goal this weekend when celebrating our historic appearance. Stay safe and look after each other.