Police tell Croydon pubs to up security

Croydon pubs have been "advised" by police to consider extra security and safety measures while screening World Cup matches.

The force has written to venues asking them to think about hiring extra doorstaff, using plastic containers and barring entry to people wearing England shirts if they think it will increase safety levels.

Croydon witnessed riots when England were eliminated from Euro 2004, although this wasn't repeated in the 2006 World Cup.

"Given the history of football in Croydon, I think the recommendations are very sensible," said Esther Sutton of the Green Dragon. The pub will use extra door and barstaff and polycarbonate cups for high-profile games.

Another licensee, who declined to be named, said: "After having a meeting with the police and pubwatch yesterday I think it is common sense. We are looking at extra staff, plastic glasses and heavy-duty outside furniture."

Bill Sharp of the Guild of Master Victuallers said: "Hopefully the police have some reason for doing this.

"If there isn't, it's just picking on licensees and that's not right."

A Met Police spokeswoman said: "There's no obligation to follow the advice. It's a series of suggestions sent to pubs in Croydon."

She said other Met forces would chose what action to take, depending on their local priorities.

Meanwhile, City of London police plan to use yellow and red cards to keep troublemakers out of pubs during the tournament.

Anyone barred from a pub will get a yellow card, forcing them to leave the area for 24 hours.

If they try to enter another bar, they are red-carded and face up to six months in jail or a £2,500 fine.

Nicky Picknett, trainee investigator at the City of London Police, said: "It's a useful tool to stop further offences occurring."

- Is your local police or council urging you to take particular measures during the World Cup? Call John Harrington on 01293 610481 or email john.harrington@william-reed.co.uk.