Polish National Tourist Office issue 'Panorama' response

By Liam Apicella, Features Editor | 30 May 2012

The Polish National Tourist Office express their surprise at comments made by former England defender Sol Campbell about their nation.

The Polish National Tourist Office have revealed that they were "surprised" by the BBC Panorama programme on Monday evening.

During the documentary, former England international Sol Campbell advised England supporters not to travel to the tournament that is being co-hosted by Poland and Ukraine because of the reported high levels of racism and violence.

However, the PNTO have issued a statement that has revealed that they have been working alongside police forces from a number of nations to eradicate any potential problems.

"In response to the statement of the former England captain, Sol Campbell, advising fans travelling to Euro 2012 which has been broadcast on BBC's Panorama, the Polish Government is surprised that the report contains the opinion of one person only and failed to include the views of international security experts," read the statement.

"The Polish Police cooperates with the international police forces on a permanent basis, including the British Police and the material broadcast omitted to provide any information on the British Police Force's safety and security plans for Euro 2012.

"We would like to point out that liaison officers from the British Police are coming to Poland during the tournament to assist and cooperate with the Polish Police based on previous exchanges of information and consultation."

Thirteen out of the 16 teams competing at the tournament have opted to stay in Poland.