BRICK SHITHOUSE

Last updated : 10 June 2003 By editor
From the MEN

CALLS to a domestic violence help line doubled after Manchester hosted the European Champions League Final.

After every big match, the Women's Domestic Violence Help line is inundated with calls from frightened wives.

They shot up after the recent Manchester United v Arsenal match and the FA Cup Final. But all the records were broken following the European match - even though no local teams were involved.

Helpline manager Geraldine Flanagan said:
"When we have big games in Manchester we see an even bigger rise, it doesn't matter if they win or lose or if it is a Manchester team playing. Pubs and clubs put on more security when a big match is on the TV because they expect trouble, but the men don't leave it in the pub. Men will watch any football, it doesn't have to be their team.”

"With it being the European Cup Final here, Manchester was the focus of all the hype. There were big screens, pubs showing the match and opportunities before and after it for men to get together and talk about football and drink to excess. Alcohol is used as an excuse for it, but it does not cause domestic violence - it contributes.”

"I want to see a situation like they have in Australia where men who are convicted or who take part in domestic violence are not allowed to play and a footballing icon like David Beckham saying it is not acceptable. I watched him asking the fans to behave at their latest match and he has a massive influence on fans. It would be great if we could get someone like him in a campaign saying that violence is not acceptable on the pitch, at the stadium or in the home."