Youngsters are being invited to watch England’s World Cup matches on the big screen in a bid to reduce anti-social behaviour and crime in Lancaster during the tournament.
Neighbourhood police team officers are working in conjunction with staff from the city’s Dukes Theatre to show the England team’s first three matches on the cinema screen at the Moor Lane venue. The events are also being supported by the Young People’s Service and LANPAC.
Free food will be available before each game and a DJ will provide entertainment afterwards.
100 free tickets will be available for each game and will be distributed by the Ridge Community Centre to youngsters aged eight – 17 who live in the Bulk area of the city.
PC Phil Ladlow, community beat manager for Bulk ward, said: “Children and teenagers love football – but there isn’t really anywhere for them to watch the tournament other than at home.
“The idea behind the screenings is to provide them with somewhere they can enjoy watching the games, while keeping them off the streets and out of trouble.”
He added: “I’m really grateful for the help of all those at Dukes Theatre – without their support this would not be possible. I would also like to thank the staff at the Ridge Community Centre, for the work that they are doing towards the project.”