Fears for South Yorkshire cops over 'perfect storm' when lockdown restrictions end and Euro football begins

Fears have been expressed in South Yorkshire that a ‘perfect storm’ could be brewing for police officers when lockdown ends and the European football championship begins.
Steve Kent, chairman of the South Yorkshire branch of the Police Federation, has expressed fears for officers when the country's lockdown restrictions are easedSteve Kent, chairman of the South Yorkshire branch of the Police Federation, has expressed fears for officers when the country's lockdown restrictions are eased
Steve Kent, chairman of the South Yorkshire branch of the Police Federation, has expressed fears for officers when the country's lockdown restrictions are eased

With lockdown restrictions gradually being lifted over the next few months, concerns have been raised about how police officers may be affected as people regain their freedom over the summer at the same time as the Euros kick off.

The Euros will run from June 11 to July 11, with the final to be held at Wembley Stadium.

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The G7 summit of seven of the world’s most advanced economies – Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States – is also to be held in England in June as the country gradually comes out of lockdown.

The event in Cornwall will run from June 11-13 and officers from across the country are expected to be involved in policing it.

If the Government’s ‘roadmap’ out of lockdown goes to plan, all restrictions on social contact should end from June 21.

Steve Kent, chairman of the South Yorkshire branch of the Police Federation, said: “Our officers have been working tirelessly throughout the pandemic. Dealing with normal demand on top of the Covid issues has been a strain and our officers have risen to the challenge.

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“We are all looking forward to the release of restrictions and officers as much as anyone I’m sure are looking forward to having a beer and meal out with the loved ones and friends.

“But we are concerned as there is a perfect storm of the release of the conditions - the Euro football tournament and of course the G7 summit in Cornwall, which is going to place a strain on policing across the country with the amount of police required to protect that, which is something that politicians forget to mention when they announce these events.

“Rest assured, as always our hardworking officers and staff will deal with it as they always do without fail. I just ask that the public be aware of the intense pressure that may be felt within policing in the coming months.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.