A POLICE chief is ready to show rowdy soccer fans the red card during the World Cup. Insp John Maries, whose beat covers Biggleswade, Sandy and Potton as well as the surrounding villages, has warned fans not to get drunk and disorderly otherwise their foo

A POLICE chief is ready to show rowdy soccer fans the red card during the World Cup.

Insp John Maries, whose beat covers Biggleswade, Sandy and Potton as well as the surrounding villages, has warned fans not to get drunk and disorderly otherwise their football celebrations could be expensive if they are charged with offences and have to appear in court.

Insp Maries also revealed that he has a special operational plan on nights when there are big games on TV and when pubs are more than likely to be full with England fans.

He will be able to bring in extra officers for those nights and keep them on alert to go to any trouble spots.

He also warned fans that Biggleswade remains an alcohol free town so fans celebrating any England success by drinking booze in the streets could also face expensive on the spot fines of £50.

"Have a good time and enjoy the games. But there will be an operation in place to have extra officers on duty on nights when big England games are being played," said Insp Maries.

"The World Cup is a big occasion which everyone who likes football should be able to enjoy. But the last thing we want is trouble in pubs and on the streets which is why I will have extra officers at my disposal which will include Police Community Support Officers.

"We have very good relationships with pub managers and will be relying on our Pub Watch scheme for any signs of trouble.

"We are not out to spoil World Cup parties in pubs. People should act responsibly then we won't have any trouble and fans won't end the evening disappointed and with a fine.