FOOTBALL fans and businesses are being encouraged to enjoy themselves but urged to be sensible during England's World Cup campaign.

Victories for the Three Lions in the two opening group games have secured qualification to the last 16 and seen large-scale celebrations across the county.

But police officers are asking people not to get involved in any alcohol-induced anti-social behaviour as the tournament progresses.

Chief Supt Rachel Nolan said: “Sport has a way of bringing everyone together and we know that most people’s aim is to enjoy the football.

“We are working to keep everyone safe in Essex this summer, and businesses have a role to play in this as well.

“We are urging them to make sure that right measures are in place which will help prevent and manage anti-social behaviour.

“These include having enough staff on match days, serving drinks in plastic glasses and not allowing more people in a premises than it has capacity for.”

Police have warned businesses they may take action to close their premises on England matchdays if there is large scale disorder and may take action against groups of pubs, clubs and other venues if they are all contributing to problems.

Celebrations have spilled out into Head Street, Colchester, after England's games against Tunisia and Panama with police having to close the road to keep people safe.

But the crowds have been mostly good humoured and there have not been any reports of any significant trouble.

A dispersal order was put in place in Braintree town centre after England's second game last Sunday after problems in the first game, while two people were arrested after the Panama match following a large fight in Earls Colne High Street.

Police are also investigating after someone threw a bottle at an officer in Brentwood last Monday.

England face Belgium on Thursday night to decide who finishes top of the group and their last 16 fixture will be played on either Monday or Tuesday.