Viral video of England fan 'taking a substance' at Newcastle fanzone prompts police investigation

Police have launched an investigation after a video appearing to show an England fan taking a white substance at a fanzone went viral on social media.

The footage, which has been viewed by thousands of people online, features a TV broadcast of crowds celebrating as the Three Lions' score against Slovakia, putting them back in the Euro 2024 competition. As fans rejoice, a bearded fan appears to spoon a white substance into his nose before laughing along with fellow football supporters.

Now, Northumbria Police have confirmed that officers are investigating the incident at the Times Square football fanzone in Newcastle where games have been broadcast on big screens.

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A force spokesperson said: "We have been made aware of footage circulating on social media of a male appearing to take a substance while in Newcastle's Times Square (on Sunday) evening. Enquiries into the footage are ongoing and anyone with information should send us a DM [private message] via social media or use the live chat function on our website.

"Alternatively, use the crime update form page of the website. If you can't contact us this way, call 101."

England's Euro 2024 game on Sunday evening saw England beat Slovakia 2-1. The Three Lions will now take on Switzerland on Saturday, July 6.