Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall is joining the Constabulary and the police dogs unit on Festive Friday at Carlisle train station, in a joint enterprise with British Transport police.
Extra officers will be out on patrol for Festive Friday, the most popular night for office and factory Christmas parties, which consequently makes it one of the most active Friday nights in the year for the police and emergency services.
During the festive season, the welfare hub is operating on key evenings when Carlisle city centre is expected to have a high footfall, in partnership with St. John’s Ambulance, Pubwatch, Great North Ambulance, British Transport Police, Carlisle city security door staff and Carlisle Street Pastors, with the intention of providing a focal point for vulnerable people in need.
Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall comments: “Festive Friday marks the start of the festive party season as many places of work close for the holidays. The last Friday before Christmas sees revelers enjoying a boozed up night out and indulging in the Christmas spirit. The message is simple. Don’t misbehave, otherwise you’ll be locked up!
“The welfare hubs help to reduce pressure on our NHS services in Carlisle by providing focused medical services between statutory and voluntary sectors on some of the busiest nights of the year.
“We want everyone to be able to enjoy themselves, have a good time and celebrate during the holidays, but also to remain as safe as possible.
“The police handle aggravated behaviour from drunken nights out throughout the year but this is heightened at Christmas when so many people are out celebrating and it will not be tolerated.
“As with any night of drinking, it’s important to eat beforehand and to drink water in between alcoholic drinks. Town centres will be much busier than usual, so it is also vital that you have planned how you are going to get home. Don’t let too much drink ruin your Christmas.”
Superintendent Sarah Jackson comments: “We want everyone to have a great time at Christmas, but an enjoyable night also means it should be a safe night.
“We will not tolerate those who spoil the night for others because they cannot control their tempers while they are drinking. There is no excuse for assaulting anyone. If you feel someone is being aggressive or acting unreasonably you should report it to an officer or security staff.
“We have been reminding people this month that they should think before they drink – and walk away from any trouble. Just remember: becoming involved in any trouble at this time of year can spoil your Christmas and your future prospects.
“No one wants to spend the festive season in a cell.”
