DEVON and Cornwall Police are advising football fans to have fun but drink responsibly during the World Cup.

Previous football tournaments have seen incidents of alcohol-related violence and domestic abuse increase – particularly following England games, according to the force.

Officers are keen to send out a clear message to possible offenders that these types of crime will not be tolerated and urge those who are victims of these crimes to seek help and support.

Detective Chief Inspector John Trott, the force’s lead for domestic abuse, said: “There is undoubtedly a link between alcohol and this rise in violence and abuse, the consequences of which are devastating for victims and their families.”

Superintendent Jim Pearce, who is leading Devon and Cornwall Police’s World Cup operations, added: “We want to remind people that alcohol is not an excuse and we will be taking a robust stance in dealing with any perpetrators of violent crime and domestic abuse.

“The World Cup should be an event that everyone can enjoy and we want to ensure that people are free of the fear of violence in any form.”