THEY'RE a national disgrace. For two nights in a row, England 'fans' have gone on the rampage in the Portuguese resort of Albufeira.

The first night's violence was generously described as a 'minor' incident by the authorities.

That charitable view came as something of a relief - given that before a ball was kicked in the Euro 2004 UEFA had threatened the England team with expulsion from the competition if there was repeated violence.

But last night the Neanderthals decided they had got away with it once so they would try it again. Reports say 400 of them were involved in clashes with police.

What goes through the thick skulls of these people? Surely they know the team could be sent home - not as a result of their displays, but through the displays of the yobs who follow them.

Apart from some minor scuffles elsewhere in the country, the supporters of no other nation have been involved in such large scale violence.

Some England fans have blamed the Portuguese police for the outbreaks of violence, accusing them of heavy-handedness. But again, why have no other fans felt the need to go on the rampage against this alleged brutal treatment?

There have been some good things said about English patriotism in recent weeks. For so long it was an ugly term. But everyone seemed to be joining in the spirit of Euro 2004, adorning their cars and houses with the cross of St George.

Now we're back to the bad old days and the ugly side of national pride thanks to these mindless idiots who are intent on spoiling the party.