Teesside health bosses urging Boro fans to be responsible during play-off finals
University Hospital Tees say excessive alcohol can add pressure to emergency services
Health bosses in Teesside say they're backing Middlesbrough for a return to the Premier League but are urging supporters to be safe and drink responsibly.
Thousands of football fans will be glued to the match tomorrow as Middlesbrough take on Hull City in the play-off final at Wembley.
University Hospitals Tees say while many fans will mark the game with a few drinks, excessive alcohol can lead to accidents and injuries, including falls, trauma and incidents linked to anti-social behaviour – all placing added pressure on emergency services.
Associate director of nursing for general and emergency medical services, Joanne Foster said: “We’ll all be cheering Boro on this weekend and we know it’s a big occasion that many people will celebrate with friends and family.
“However, we’re asking supporters to drink responsibly and look after themselves and those around them. Our emergency departments and urgent care services need to remain available for patients who really need our help. Road traffic crashes, serious illnesses and accidents don’t take the day off when a big match is on – please don’t add to our pressures with drink-related injuries.
“No one wants their day to end in hospital, so whether Boro win or lose, please watch the match safely.”