Warning on drink driving and drug driving during Euro 2024

The authorities advised residents about the dangers of drink driving and drug driving on the advent of Euro 2024.

The competition is anticipated to attract supporters to venues across Greater Manchester from June 14 to July 14.

According to Transport for Greater Manchester, the police arrested 258 people in the region on suspicion of the offences of drink driving or drug driving during the Three Lions' run in the World Cup a year and a half ago, in an increase on the number of arrests on suspicion of these offences in the region outside tournament-time.

They and the police, who are a part of the Safer Roads Partnership, advised residents about the dangers of drink driving and drug driving, which together are one of the so-called Fatal Four alongside distraction, speed and no seatbelts.

Fran Wilkinson, customer and growth director at Transport for Greater Manchester, said: "We are looking forward to everyone enjoying Euro 2024 and following every twist and turn of what looks likely to be an exciting tournament.

"Our message to football fans going to watch the games on a big screen is to stay safe by using public transport and not to risk having a drink and getting behind the wheel of a car.

"Wherever you are going to watch the games make sure you have a smooth journey by allowing yourself plenty of time and planning ahead with the Bee Network app or website.

"While emotions can run high during a football tournament please be considerate of others when using public transport and refrain from behaving in ways which could cause annoyance or make people feel uncomfortable or intimidated."

The advice is to use public transport if possible with trams running to midnight most nights and 1am on Fridays and Saturdays. For information go to tfgm.com.

Anyone with information about an incident can contact police on 101 or the LiveChat on gmp.police.uk. They can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

This article was written by Jack Tooth. To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.