FOOTBALL fans stepping out of line during the Euros will be arrested, Avon and Somerset Police are warning.

With the 2020 football tournament kicking off tomorrow (Friday), the force is warning people not to fall foul of the Covid regulations.

England, Scotland and Wales are among the 24 teams taking part in the competition, which opens in Rome.

Rules in step three of the Covid-19 roadmap remain in place at the start of the tournament, meaning there are restrictions on meeting people indoors.

Fans are being encouraged to familiarise themselves with the rules and public health advice that are in place to keep everyone safe.

Euro 2020 was postponed by 12 months due to the coronavirus and will see games played in 12 different cities. The final will be staged at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, July 11.

Throughout the tournament, police in Somerset will be providing high-profile reassurance patrols to ensure any potential problems, around Covid-19 and other police matters, are dealt with robustly.

That includes antisocial behaviour and violence, domestic abuse and drink-driving, which can be linked to the event. Offenders will be arrested and police will seek football banning orders from the courts.

Operation Tonic, the force's drink-drive enforcement operation, will be taking place for the duration of the tournament.

Chief Inspector Debbie Palmer-Lawrence said: “We have well-practised plans in place for the duration of the tournament, including high-visibility proactive patrols, to allow people to enjoy themselves but importantly stay safe.

“We fully understand people’s desire to watch the Euro 2020 matches with friends and family. Few people have been able to attend games or socialise and watch matches together over the past year and we’re not trying to stop people having fun.

“However, we would ask the public and businesses to make sure they comply with legal restrictions around Covid-19 throughout the tournament and follow the current health advice.

“The vast majority of people are continuing to follow the rules and guidance and for that we’re grateful.

"Our 4Es approach of engaging with the public, explaining the rules and encouraging people to comply remains in place, with enforcement an option for repeat or blatant breaches of the rules through fixed penalty notices.

“I’m sure all England fans will agree penalties are best avoided both on and off the pitch over the next month.”