Norwich And Ipswich Police Put On Extra Patrols For Parties

21 December 2012, 06:12 | Updated: 21 December 2012, 12:42

Norfolk and Suffolk Police are preparing for a busy weekend as people go out to celebrate the start of the Christmas holidays.

Extra patrols have been put on in Norwich and Ipswich to deal with the number of party-goers expected to go to the pubs and clubs.

Superintendent Martin Ransome is overseeing the policing of the night time economy across the county, now and through to the New Year, and is hoping that people will take on board the advice being issued by Suffolk Police, he said: “For a number of months leading up to Christmas and New Year we start to prepare and identify key dates where we know there will be greater numbers of people out and about and visiting the county’s night spots.

“We work closely with our partners, licensed premises and Street Pastors to ensure people have a safe, enjoyable time.

“We will not only have a high visible presence with extra patrols around the towns in the county but we will also use powers available to us to deal with those behaving in an anti-social manner or committing an offence, this may be by using a section 27 notice (allowing us to disperse the person from the area), fixed penalty notices or arrest.

“It is not our intention to ruin anyone’s night out by using our powers but to encourage party goers to have fun sensibly.

“By taking a few simple precautions, you can reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime.”

Police are offering the following the advice to party-goers:

  • Plan your night out and your route there and back – avoid short cuts through unlit or deserted areas;
  • Let someone know where you are going and what time you expect to get home;
  • Know your limits – alcohol affects your reactions; you’ll be less alert.
  • Avoid going out for the evening alone;
  • Appoint a designated driver between you and your friends, and if not make arrangements for your journey home. Driving with excess alcohol can affect so many lives – not only your own;
  • Keep your personal possessions close to you at all times; and finally
  • Enjoy your night out, stick with your friends and have a safe Christmas and New Year.

 Heart's Hannah Griffiths has been speaking to Superintendent Paul Sandford from Norfolk Police:

Xmas Parties - Norfolk Police - Supt Paul Sandford