Cardiff City FC fans travelling to Wembley on Sunday for the team’s League Cup final appearance have been told not to take alcohol on the train.
British Transport Police has warned any fans breaching the booze ban between Cardiff and London could find themselves kicked off their train. Alcohol is also banned on the London Underground Network at all times.
BTP’s Sector Commander for Wales, Chief Inspector Sandra England, said: “Sunday promises to be a great day for Cardiff fans and our officers will be helping everyone to enjoy it, as well as ensuring everyone travels to and from the game safely.
“Throughout the day, we will have officers patrolling stations and on board trains between South Wales and London and will not tolerate intimidating or anti-social behaviour from those intent on spoiling the day for others.
“Trains can become extremely busy during major sporting events such as this and we would urge fans to consider other passengers at all times.
“We appreciate the vast majority are always well behaved – but we are warning anyone who steps out of line while travelling on the rail network will be dealt with by our officers.
“Not only are they risking a court appearance, they also risk missing out on seeing the match.”
“We want everyone travelling to and from the match to enjoy themselves but we know from experience that some fans can get caught up in the excitement of the day and this, combined with alcohol, can result in some less-than-desirable behaviour.
“We’re asking fans to show some consideration for others on board the train and to moderate their language and behaviour – but above all to enjoy the day.”
A First Great Western spokesperson said: “First Great Western have put on extra services to help fans get to the game and we hope the club and supporters alike enjoy a great day out.
“We do advise fans check their train times carefully, as engineering work taking place on that day means the journey will take longer than they might normally expect.”
Would the same restrictions apply to rugby supporters? doubt it