Extra officers across Herefordshire, Worcestershire, and Shropshire over festive period
West Mercia Police have put more officers in the region to keep people safe over Christmas.
Last updated 13th Dec 2024
Extra officers are being put onto the streets across the West Mercia area from today (13 Dec) to help keep people safe over the busy festive period.
West Mercia Police is launching Operation Christmas Presence, which will see extra officers, police staff, and partner agencies on duty.
Superintendent Brian Gibbs, head of prevention at West Mercia Police, said: "Over the festive period we do see significant increases in our footfall and demand around our night-time economy.
"Whilst West Mercia is a safe place to live, work, and visit we will continue to work tirelessly with our partners to provide a safe environment for the vast majority who wish to celebrate lawfully.
"Being drunk is no excuse to causing disorder or criminality. Please know your limits, take responsibility and enjoy a safe Christmas."
Op Presence is partially funded for by the Safer Streets 5 initiative granted to West Mercia's Police and Crime Commissioner.
PCC John Campion added: "As Police and Crime Commissioner my mission is for people to enjoy Christmas and the festive season in our town centres happily and safely together.
"That's why I am committed to making sure West Mercia officers are more visible and accessible in our communities, so that crime and anti-social behaviour is tackled promptly, and people are not only safe but feel safe too.
"Working together with partners and the public, I am determined to deliver safer, stronger communities in West Mercia."
As part of the operation, specialist licensing officers have been working with local authorities and licensed premises across the force to ensure the night-time economy remains as safe as possible.
Plain clothes officers will also be out and about in towns and cities from today, along with street pastors, town rangers, and safe space busses.