Rochdale police urge people to have a safe 'Festive Friday'

Police are urging those who are out and about this evening (Friday 19 December) to have a safe night.

Rochdale police are urging those who are out and about for 'Festive Friday', also known as 'Mad Friday', this evening (Friday 19 December) to have a safe evening.

The police will see up to 69 officers on duty by midnight ensuring that people are safe on what is the busiest Friday before Christmas.

Speaking to Rochdale Online, Inspector Andy Riley from Rochdale Police said: “We understand that people are finishing work today for Christmas and will be heading out to either go for celebrations or finish some last minute Christmas shopping or buying food. We are just appealing to those who are out and about that they stay safe and if they are planning to drink in excess, then to do it in moderation.

“We want everyone to keep safe and have an enjoyable evening and want everyone to have a nice Christmas.”

Operation Elf, which was kicked started this afternoon will see the police increase their patrols and presence across the borough.

Statistics have shown that today does see an increase on the demands of the police and is likely to be the busiest night for the police in December.

For the operation there will be extra patrols in specific hot spots and in Rochdale Town Centre, mobile response teams, serials to support at crime scenes (if necessary), CCTV operatives, a domestic review desk and a dedicated MFH and SPOC to assist officers.

The operation will then take place again on New Year’s Eve.