WITH Football supporters heading to pubs across the Forest of Dean to watch England's World Cup semi final against Argentina tonight are being reminded that help is available if they ever feel unsafe.

Forest of Dean District Council has highlighted the Ask for Angela scheme, which is now in place at many pubs, clubs and hospitality venues across the district.

With venues expected to be busy as fans gather to watch England bid for a place in the World Cup final, the council is encouraging anyone who feels uncomfortable or vulnerable during the evening to make use of the nationally recognised initiative.

The scheme allows customers to discreetly ask staff for "Angela" if they need assistance without having to explain their situation publicly.

Trained staff can then step in to offer support, which could include arranging a taxi home, helping someone reunite with friends or family, providing an alternative way to leave the venue, asking the person causing concern to leave, or contacting police if necessary.

The reminder comes ahead of what is expected to be one of the busiest evenings for licensed venues this summer, with England supporters set to fill pubs across the Forest to watch the Three Lions take on Argentina for a place in Sunday's World Cup final.

A spokesperson for Forest of Dean District Council said: "Many of our local pubs, clubs and other hospitality venues across the Forest of Dean are now part of the Ask for Angela safety scheme, a nationally recognised initiative that helps people feel safer while on a night out.

"If you're out and you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, simply go to the bar and ask for 'Angela' – a discreet way to ask for help."

The council said the initiative is designed to ensure everyone can enjoy an evening out safely, whether they are watching the football with friends, celebrating after the match or simply spending time in one of the district's hospitality venues.