Police Rubbish 'Shirt Fine' Rumours

26 May 2010, 09:33 | Updated: 26 May 2010, 16:36

Police in Dorset have quashed rumours that they will fine members of the public wearing England shirts or carrying England flags in pubs and clubs during the World Cup.

The announcement by Dorset Police was made after a number of calls from members of the public following the rumours on Facebook.

Superintendent Jane Newall said: "These rumours are simply not true and we have no plans to restrict members of the public from wearing England-branded clothing or carrying the Union or St George's flags.

"Members of the public are entitled to dress in a way that demonstrates their support for a national team and this certainly won't be of any concern to us.''

Dorset Police will also be launching a campaign encouraging supporters to "give drunken violence the boot'' with posters appearing in pubs and clubs in the run up to the World Cup.

Supt Newall said: "We want members of the public to enjoy watching the World Cup in a safe environment and in a responsible manner, but we will not tolerate illegal behaviour and appropriate action will be taken against those who break
the law.

"We want everyone to enjoy the World Cup and its associated events, but we urge all members of the public, including supporters, to drink alcohol sensibly to ensure that they do not become a victim or perpetrator of crime.''