GREATER Manchester Police have said a public `Thank You' to Rangers fans that have praised the city's policing operation for the UEFA Cup Final.
And a spokesman for the force said: "Once again, GMP would like to reiterate that the vast majority of visitors to Manchester were extremely well behaved and contributed to what was predominantly a carnival atmosphere."
He said: "We have received dozens of messages by phone and e-mail from people that were in Manchester on Wednesday for the final."
Extracts from some of the messages include: "The heroism and courage displayed by your officers dealing with riots during and after the UEFA Cup game are to be commended.
"You have my thanks and appreciation for their actions which helped protect public safety, lives and property.'
Another said: `I would like to say thanks to the police present around the city during the Cup Final. they allowed Rangers fans to enjoy the atmosphere and the occasion. They were really friendly, approachable and courteous."
One fan said: "I am a Rangers FC genuine supporter and season ticket holder. I wish to express my sincere apologies for the actions of the so called `fans' wjho caused mayhem in your city.
"I spent a very enjoyable day in the city and thank GMP and their officers for their attitudetowards myself, partner, and son."
And another wrote: "I was down with my son for the game, and found that the Manchester Cou ncil and police could not have made the event any better.
"The police were so helpful during the day, and let the majority of fans enjoy the occasion. I applaud the efforts of the police and thank God they were there doing what they do best - police. I send my sincere thanks to all of Manchester, and special thanks to athe Chief and his staff for assisting the real fans."
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Fans praise police actions
May 16, 2008
Showing comments 1 to 6 and replies | View All
The Karney & Leese Ego Show [formerly Scrotnig] (16/05/2008 at 16:21)
I support a football club with a reputation for hooliganism too....and that reputation is, or certainly was, deserved. it's a minority, it doesn't make all the supporters hooligans.
Spare a thought for the genuine Rangers fans caught up in this. It's NOT their fault. I would welcome them back tomorrow, I would however expect better organisation from our own council.
ara (16/05/2008 at 16:39)
I do think that the venue was inappropriate for the massive numbers (which many forecast prior), but the average bobby was everything a bobby should be: approachable, helpful and professional.
Thanks for all their hard efforts..and to you Manchester..
Jamie Brunlees (16/05/2008 at 17:38)
jimbob, dumbarton (16/05/2008 at 17:58)
We have to remember that events on Wed. were unique. The figure of 170,000 travelling to a sporting event is without precedent in this country and abroad and illustrates the incredible pulling power of Glasgow Rangers F. C . I doubt if this record will ever be equalled.
It is with that in mind that I have some sympathy with the city authorities. Yes, they were perhaps a bit naive and, without doubt, they should have held the fan zones in parks away from the city centre. Nevertheless, it could have been far worse, given the sheer numbers.
Finally, I would urge Mancunians to take the claims of Celtic supporters that 'they are the good guys and Rangers fans the bad' with a large pinch of salt. Celtic fans also drink to excess, and a section of their support frequently sing songs in praise of the IRA on away days, something which I'm sure wouldn't go down too well in the fine city of Manchester, given events that have taken place in the past.
scott young (16/05/2008 at 17:59)
Of course most Rangers fans were well behaved, it annoys me when this seems to get disputed.
I support a football club with a reputation for hooliganism too....and that reputation is, or certainly was, deserved. it's a minority, it doesn't make all the supporters hooligans.
Spare a thought for the genuine Rangers fans caught up in this. It's NOT their fault. I would welcome them back tomorrow, I would however expect better organisation from our own council.
The Karney & Leese Ego Show [formerly Scrotnig]
Mark, South Manchester (16/05/2008 at 20:31)
A campsite, big screens & facilities could also have been erected at Heaton Park - along with a "bus shuttle service" to take fans to & from the city centre at will.
Manchester could then have coped with the extra fans. Maybe next time, maybe next time - but I think the reputation of both cities is now irrevocably damaged!