Tartan Army fury as booze test cops delay trip to game

Oct 12 2008 By Derek Alexander

KILLJOY police failed to spoil the Tartan Army's big day out yesterday with their booze crackdown.

Officers targeted the world's best behaved fans with testing kits normally used to catch under-age drinkers.

The clampdown was slammed by Scotland's goodnatured supporters as it led to delays getting to Hampden - where Scotland drew 0-0 against Norway.

Transport police officers put dipsticks into drinks suspected of containing booze. They go a dark colour when they detect alcohol.

Fans travelling on trains and buses from across the country were pulled over to have their drinks examined.

Mark Byrne, 34, and James Fernie, 35, had their coach searched twice as they travelled from Dunfermline.

James said: "It's a disgrace.

It kept us back. You would have thought the police were searching for guns and drugs the way they behaved."

Norway fan Sven Hiestnes, 41, said: "We've been having a party, we've not been annoying anyone."

Frazer Neabe, 16, of Aberdeen, had his Irn-Bru tested by PCChris McGivern but it got the all-clear.

Frazer said: "I have no problem co-operating but I can see why some fans might get annoyed."

There were just four arrests and five penalty notices issued for drinking.

Only 34 people were refused entry to Hampden.

Strathclyde Police's Chief Superintendent Robin Howe said: "We're delighted with the result and have nothing but praise for the fans."

The booze tests were co-ordinated by the Association of Chief Police Officers Scotland, who said they would not be in a position to comment until tomorrow.

No one at British Transport Police's Glasgow HQ was available for comment.

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