Police increase patrols as festive season begins

MORE officers will be out on the streets over the festive season in a crackdown on a alcohol related crime.

West Mercia Police launched a joint campaign Tuesday (December 11) with the Warwickshire force in a bid to make towns and cities safer over the Christmas holiday.

Chief Insp Jerry Reakes-Williams, who is in charge of the operation for both forces, said: “Everyone likes to go out at Christmas and have a good time with friends and family, but sometimes people drink too much and become careless, increasing their chances of becoming involved in crime.

“Because of this, there will be a visibly higher police presence on the streets of Herefordshire, North Warwickshire, Shropshire, South Warwickshire, Telford & Wrekin and Worcestershire over the festive period.”

Between December 20 last year and January 1 this year, there were 1,750 alcohol related incidents across the two force areas, caused by peopled drinking too much.

He urged people to drink responsibly, protect drinks and to look after friends.

He added those walking home should do so in groups and stick to main roads.

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