FOOTBALL hooligans have already been captured on television rampaging through the streets of Portugal.

Now it seems drink-fuelled violence is creeping from the piazzas into living rooms.

Jenni Manners, manager of Swindon's Women's Refuge, says there has been a sudden surge of women needing help to flee violent partners following England's Euro 2004 defeat at the hands of the French on Sunday.

"At this time of the year we would expect to have around 14 families at the refuge, but now we have 19 and I think that is linked to the tournament," said Mrs Manners.

"Feelings of frustration and anger are released when people get psyched up and then let down.

"Sometimes people take that out on another human being and there is very little the victim can do to stop it happening."

Mrs Manners believes increased tensions associated with Euro 2004 combined with excessive alcohol consumption, and the fine weather is proving an explosive concoction.

She said: "Tensions are running high at the moment, especially after Sunday's defeat against the French.

"And if you add that to the hot weather, which always sees people behave oddly, you could have big problems."

Mrs Manners urged women, who are already in violent relationships, to assess the risks that the tournament brings.

She said: "They should be aware of the potential risk for violence as tempers sway."

Swindon police were unable to provide official figures, but Detective Inspector Paul Jennings echoed Mrs Manner's concerns and agreed that all the ingredients are there for a hike in domestic violence over the coming weeks as the tournament progresses.

He said: "The potential for a rise in incidents of this kind is increased when there is a rise in alcohol.

"This is one of the main contributory factors to domestic violence.

"Traditionally, we have noticed that the weather plays a part in it too.

"When it's hot people are more inclined to stay out in the sun and drink at barbecues held by neighbours and friends."

Children's plea to MPs

YOUNGSTERS whose family lives have been torn apart by domestic violence have called on the Government to keep them and their mothers safe from abuse.

Children who live in refuges after fleeing violence in the home told MPs in London of the horrific experiences they have had to face.

Women's Aid Listening to Children campaign, which was launched yesterday, aims to make sure the view of young people are taken into account. Hundreds of postcards written by children who have suffered or witnessed violence were sent to ministers as part of the drive against abuse.

Kevin Shoesmith