Police expect crime to rise in Perth over the summer

The move will tackle problems in the town centre, where assault figures peak during July, August and September.

Operation Homesafe, which also involves licensees and taxi operators, cut serious and violent crime by a fifth last summer, Tayside Police said.

Officers aim to use a high-profile presence to cut minor disorder before it leads to more serious incidents.

'Violent behaviour'

Ch Supt Matt Hamilton of Tayside Police said: "The vast majority of people go out at the weekend to enjoy themselves in the company of friends, with no intentions of being involved in crime or anti-social behaviour.

"There is, however, a minority who take too much drink and then become ill, are injured, or get involved in violent and criminal behaviour.

"We are determined to uphold the rights of the majority to enjoy themselves in a civilised way, free of threat, fear or disturbance."