The seasonal campaign aims to increase public safety through organisations including the council, the police and the fire service working together. Officers will be out in force throughout the district’s town centres taking a zero tolerance approach to people found causing trouble while drunk.
Licensing officers from the council will be visiting licensed premises during the campaign to crack down on any unlawful practices, such as underage drinking.
And whether you are out on an office party or celebrating with friends, at the end of the evening you can take advantage of the two taxi marshal schemes which are up and running in Kingswood and Chipping Sodbury.
These initiatives are funded by South Gloucestershire Council to help make sure people get home safely.
Cllr Heather Goddard, executive member for communities, said: “Following on from the success of last year’s operation, South Gloucestershire Council has launched its seasonal crackdown on alcohol-related crime and disorder in conjunction with the police and other partners.
“In order for everyone to have an enjoyable night out over the festive period, we would ask our residents and those working in the area to celebrate the end of the year in a safe and responsible fashion.
“We know this is the intention for most, but we are sending out a clear message to people intent on going out, getting drunk and causing trouble – this behaviour will not be tolerated in South Gloucestershire. You can expect to be arrested and get a criminal record, especially if you are caught driving over the legal alcohol limit.”
Olwen Kelly, community safety and substance misuse manager for Safer South Gloucestershire, added: “We want people to feel safe on a night out this Christmas and by working together with our partners and the council’s licensing department we hope to reduce the instances of alcohol related disorder, drink driving and other criminal activities throughout the festive period.”
And speaking on behalf of the police, South Gloucestershire Police District Chief Inspector, Peter Warren, said: “Throughout the year we find that incidents of rowdy behaviour, criminal damage and violence increase at the weekends, peaking between 7pm and 2am and with hotspots in areas with pubs and clubs it’s obvious that this is linked to alcohol consumption.
“During the festive period and especially at weekends we have extra patrols, supported by the volunteer Special Constabulary, to tackle this issue.
“Our advice to anyone planning a night out is to plan how you’ll get home beforehand. Nominate someone to drive or pre-book a taxi. Never walk home alone, and stick to busy, well-lit areas.”
CI Warren added: “Don’t drink and drive in South Gloucestershire, because with the support of our special constables we run frequent breath test operations. This time last year 25 people were arrested for drink driving.”
ENDS