Police patrols in Rochdale to ensure happy New Year

Date published: 27/12/2006

Police patrols in Rochdale will be encouraging partygoers to "Drink Safe’, and "Think Safe’ this New Year’s Eve.

A police spokesperson said: "This is one of the busiest times of year and there will be lots of people seeing in the New Year, in and around the town centre, having a good time and, in some cases, drinking more than they are used to.

"Alcohol can fuel crime and disorder and make people vulnerable by clouding their judgement.  We don’t want to stop anyone having fun, in fact we want to make sure they enjoy themselves and stay safe, by pacing their drinks, staying together with friends and planning their journey home."

Officers will be patrolling hot spot locations and clamping down on licensed premises that serve underage drinkers and people who have had too much to drink.  On the spot fines of £80 will be issued for drunk and disorderly behaviour.

Police in Rochdale want to make sure that this New Year’s Eve is one to remember rather than one we’d like to forget.