POLICE in Avon and Somerset have praised football fans across the area for 'exemplary' behaviour during the first half of Euro 2016.

Apart from isolated instances of anti-social behaviour and minor public order offences, fans who have been watching games on pubs and clubs across the force area, have not caused any problems, the force said.

No football-related arrests have been made so far and police hope that record remains in tact for the rest of the tournament, which finishes next Sunday, July 10.

Temporary Chief Insp Oliver Cosgrove said: “We would like to thank fans for their good behaviour during the opening weeks of the Euro 2016 tournament and hope this will continue for the second half of the competition.

“Apart from isolated incidents where we have offered words of advice, there have not been any significant incidents and no football-related arrests.

“We want everyone to enjoy themselves but would advise that we have a zero-tolerance approach to any football related disorder. If you are arrested and put before the courts for football-related incidents, you could find yourself with a football banning order, which prohibits travel and attendance at football matches.

“We would also remind everyone of the need to drink sensibly and not to drive if you have been drinking. Make other arrangements to get home and remember you may still be over the drink drive limit the following morning.”

The police operation in Avon and Somerset kicked off with acontrol period on May 31 when the 103 holders of football banning orders were required to surrender their passports or seek an exemption to travel.

This was followed by an operation at Bristol Airport, offering advice and support to those travelling to the football championships as well as those not travelling to the tournament.

High profile reassurance patrols have been organised throughout Avon and Somerset when England and Wales are playing to ensure there are no problems and react to any football-related anti-social or violent behaviour.said T/CI Cosgrove.

The football operation continues at Bristol Airport, which is to reassure those flying from the airport and prevent potential troublemakers from travelling. It aims to ensure 'risk fans' and known troublemakers are intercepted and stopped from travelling abroad.

Experienced football liaison officers and 'spotters' based at the airport, are leading the operation.

As well as their primary role of preventing potential troublemakers from travelling, officers will be available to provide reassurance, support, guidance and advise to those flying to Euro 2016 as well as those not attending the football championships.