Hollywood hardman Ray Winstone has urged England fans to show their softer side at this summer’s World Cup – and make the nation proud.

West Ham fanatic Winstone, star of movies such as Quadrophenia, Cold Mountain and King Arthur, is backing the Alltogethernow 2006 campaign to build on impressive behaviour by England fans at World Cup 2002 and Euro 2004.

“I’ve been a football fan since 1962 and I remember watching the likes of Bobby Moore and Martin Peters doing it for the Hammers and England. I’m proud to be an England fan and enjoy nothing more than joining in with the crowd to get behind the team.

“But let’s get this straight –causing trouble at a football tournament is unacceptable. I’m as passionate about being an England fan as the next man, but the moment you get involved in violence, you let the team and the country down.”

Winstone, who is currently filming the latest series of hit TV show Vincent, admitted that this could be England’s best chance of winning the tournament since 1966.

Alltogethernow 2006, run by England fans and The FA, is aimed at showing a positive image of England fans to people in Germany and around the world, demonstrating that the stereotyped image of anti-social and violent behaviour is not a true reflection of genuine England supporters.

Alltogthernow 2006 follows on the back of a similar campaign ahead of Euro 2004. UEFA paid tribute to the contribution made by England supporters to the tournament’s atmosphere and success, giving them 9 out of 10.

Before and during the World Cup, there will be a range of initiatives taking place around the England and in Germany, organised primarily by the fans for the fans and supported by The FA. These include road shows, regional competitions, player messages, ambassador visits to Germany and a variety of media events.