Police issue advice ahead of early hours World Cup match

THE POLICE in Shetland have reminded people to make sure they plan ahead and get home safely if they are out in the early hours watching Scotland’s World Cup matches in pubs.

Chief inspector Chris Sewell said: “Please don’t take risks with drink or drug driving and make sure you know how you’re getting home before you head out.”

The first of Scotland’s three World Cup group stage matches will take place at 2am UK time on Sunday, with the team facing off against Haiti in Boston.

A number of licensed premises, in Lerwick, Sandwick, Mossbank and Scalloway, successfully applied to stay open until 4am to screen the game.

Some will also show Scotland’s two other matches, against Morocco and Brazil – although these will kick off at 11pm UK time.

Local police said as Scotland begins its World Cup campaign this weekend, “we’re encouraging everyone to enjoy the matches safely”.

They reminded people that “unlike many other parts of Scotland, there are no public service buses or ferries operating after late night matches in Shetland, so please make arrangements in advance”.

“If you’re drinking alcohol, don’t drive,” police added.

“Consider a taxi, a designated driver, or arranging a lift with family or friends…and please remember – just because you’ve had a night’s sleep doesn’t mean you’re automatically fit to drive the following morning.

“Alcohol can still affect your judgement and put you over the legal limit.”

Sewell added: “We want everyone in Shetland to enjoy the World Cup, but we also want everyone to get home safely.”