POLICE and licensees in Blackpool have praised the good behaviour of revellers on Saturday night (June 17) after thousands of people watched the England v Germany match without a single incident of violence or drunken trouble.

More than 15,000 people descended onto the town's pubs and clubs to see England win 1-0 on big screens.

Fears were running high that the all-important Germany match, coupled with the mini heatwave across England would result in excessive drinking and therefore pose a greater risk of violence or hooliganism.

Dave Daly, manager of Cahoots bar on the promenade, said he was pleased with the way the night went.

"We weren't looking forward to it," he admitted, "especially as it was so hot all day. People drink more in the sun and obviously tension was high because of the match, but it went really well and without any real trouble."

And the response from the police was just as positive. Sgt Gary Haley from the licensing unit explained Saturday night was another test of the licensing forum's radio link scheme, which involves linking the door staff of all the major establishments in Blackpool and working together to target repeat offenders and unruly behaviour.

He said: "It was a triumph! Working with licensees we highlighted potential hotspots in the town, and placed extra police resources there.

"The radio link is getting used more and more and it will eventually aid a reduction in the incidence of nuisance and disorder. The main aim is to improve public safety and we are getting better at doing this all the time."