Festive crime crackdown kicks-off

Extra police officers will patrol known disorder "hot spots"

Police in Lanarkshire are stepping up their bid to reduce alcohol-fuelled crime in the run up to Christmas.

Extra officers will patrol known trouble spots, and under-age drinkers and drunk drivers will be targeted.

The festive leg of the ongoing Safer Lanarkshire campaign was launched at Hamilton Academical's stadium on Thursday.

Police will also work with the football club to encourage responsible drinking among fans.

Ch Supt Tim Love, divisional commander for South Lanarkshire, said: "The festive season is traditionally a time for celebration and alongside our partner agencies, we want to create an environment that allows our residents and visitors to feel safe and assured within the community.

"Officers will be out in force throughout the festive period on foot, on bicycles and on the roads, with the intention of providing reassurance and to remind people of the serious consequences of alcohol misuse."

We want to reinforce the message of responsible drinking to our fans, as we can all stay on top of our game by avoiding alcohol Billy Reid Manager, Hamilton Accies

"We want to reinforce the message of responsible drinking to our fans, as we can all stay on top of our game by avoiding alcohol."

Officers will crack down on irresponsible drinking by carrying out spot-checks on licensed premises and undertaking test purchasing operations to prevent alcohol getting into the wrong hands.

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