France wants alcohol banned near Euro 2016 venues

An England fan is unconscious on the ground after clashes ahead of the game against Russia on June 11, 2016
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French interior minister Bernard Cazeneuve calls for alcohol to be banned from areas surrounding the Euro 2016 venues.

French interior minister Bernard Cazeneuve has called for alcohol to be banned in fan zones and venues close to the stadiums at Euro 2016.

The country has witnessed three days of violence between football fans and police, with many incidents involving bottle throwing.

UEFA has attempted to crack down on the brawls by threatening to expel England and Russia from the tournament if their fans continue to fight.

Now, the French government is stepping in, calling for bars to refuse alcohol to supporters.

The interior minister said: "I have asked for all necessary measures to be taken to prohibit the sale, consumption and transport of alcoholic drinks in sensitive areas on matchdays and the day before, and on days when fan zones are open."

As well as England and Russian fans clashing, there have also been reported incidents involving supporters of Germany, Ukraine and Northern Ireland.

Meanwhile, French police have confirmed that a 24-year-old Northern Ireland fan died in hospital on Saturday night after falling from a beach promenade.

The incident is not believed to be related to any of the violence reported.

An England fan is unconscious on the ground after clashes ahead of the game against Russia on June 11, 2016
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