POLICE chiefs and council bosses have called for the public to 'act responsibly' ahead of England's quarter final Euro clash with Ukraine tomorrow evening.

Dorset Police, BCP Council and Dorset Council say they expect pubs and bars across the county to be busy and for people to meet in groups to watch the game, when it kicks off at 8pm on Saturday.

Confirming additional resources will be in place, Civic chiefs and police have called for people to 'respect each other' to help make it a 'safe, fun and memorable event'.

Assistant Chief Constable Sam de Reya, of Dorset Police, said: “Everyone is excited with the national team’s progress following their historic win over Germany.

"Many are already making plans to watch the match on Saturday night, either at home with family and friends or in our bars and pubs across the county.

"So far, the tournament has been a great success; people have behaved themselves and I wish to thank our licensees across Dorset who have worked closely with us and licensing teams to deliver a safe match day experience for all.

"We expect the pubs and bars to be full this Saturday night, albeit operating with a reduced capacity due to social distancing rules and the rule of six that remains in place.

"Business owners, police and partner agencies across the region are doing their part to keep you safe. We ask the public to support us with this – please plan ahead by taking a lateral flow test, booking a table and your transport home if you are watching the game out, remember to wear your mask unless exempt and adhere to social distancing.”

To help ensure that the night passes peacefully, additional police units will be visible in many town centres across the county – with officers looking to 'proactively' tackle drink-related anti-social behaviour.

The assistant chief constable said: "Most people just want to enjoy the football and support their team and this is why partner agencies across Dorset are being very clear that alcohol is not an excuse for bad behaviour.

"Businesses and residents share our frustrations when it comes to anti-social behaviour, which is why those who think that using the match as an excuse to cause violent disorder run the risk of being arrested.

"There is also no excuse for drink-driving following the match or getting behind the wheel the following morning when still over the limit and we will take a robust stance in dealing with any perpetrators who decide to drive while drunk.

"Finally, please respect those who are working hard to keep you safe whether that be door staff, taxi or bus drivers, bar staff, or any of the blue light services, as well as your neighbours or residents who live in the town centres you may be visiting – if we all work together then Saturday night could be something memorable and for all the right reasons.”

With the delay in the Government moving into Step 4 of its roadmap out of lockdown, it is expected that many will still choose to watch the match at home.

Residents are reminded to stick to the Covid-19 rules of meeting with a maximum of two households or up to six people from different households indoors, and up to 30 people outside in areas such as private gardens or public spaces.

Open doors and windows at home to ensure there is plenty of ventilation.

Councillor May Haines, portfolio holder for community safety at BCP Council, said: “It’s fantastic to see our national team enjoying success in the Euros, and to have something to celebrate after what we know has been an incredibly difficult year for so many.

"If you’re making plans to watch the game on Saturday night, please remember that rates of Covid-19 are currently rising locally, so it’s vital you stay safe.

"BCP Council’s regulatory teams are working closely with hospitality businesses to make sure they can operate safely, so I urge that you follow the secure measures to keep yourself and others safe.

"Let’s not undo the huge efforts and sacrifices that so many have made to ensure the wellbeing of residents in the BCP area.”

Meanwhile, Councillor Graham Carr-Jones, Dorset Council’s portfolio holder for housing and community safety, said: “It’s great that England are through to the quarter finals and along with the fans, we’ll be cheering the team on.

"To echo what Assistant Chief Constable de Reya has said, this is an opportunity to enjoy time with our family and friends and support the team, but we must all remember to keep to the rules as much as possible which are there for everyone’s safety.

"If you’re heading to a pub or a bar, do book ahead, check in on arrival and be considerate of landlords and bar staff who must observe Government’s Covid safe rules.”