Cheshire East staff have been told they must not turn up to work drunk, arrive late, or use offensive 'banter' during the FIFA World Cup 2026.

A message posted on the staff intranet issued 'guidance' for staff behaviour during the football tournament.

One council employee told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: "I find it quite baffling that they feel staff would need to be reminded of this."

The post tells staff: "As always, our priority is to ensure that services for our residents continue as normal."

It then lists several 'do's and don'ts'.

Staff are told they must be fit for work.

"Late-night matches may affect sleep, so it's important to plan ahead," says the post.

"You are expected to attend work on time; be able to carry out your role effectively; not attend work under the influence of alcohol."

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Workers are reminded to show respect to colleagues and to avoid offensive 'banter' and comments related to nationality, race, religion or other personal characteristics.

And there's a warning about watching matches and using work systems.

"Your priority during working hours is to carry out your role," states the message.

"Please don't watch matches at work without permission."

The memo adds anyone wanting time off should request leave in the usual way.