One of the busiest days for emergency services in Lincolnshire
Due to an increased alcohol consumption at Christmas parties and nights out this ‘Mad Friday’ is expected to have towns and cities bustling
Lincolnshire police have put in place extra patrols to prevent crime and disorder this evening with the city and town centres expected to be bustling.
It's billed as ‘Mad Friday’, one of the busiest days for emergency services due to increased alcohol consumption at Christmas parties and nights out.
Superintendent Lee St Quinton, Head of Prevention at Lincolnshire Police said:
“Pubs, bars and restaurants will of course be busier than usual as friends, families and work colleagues meet up to celebrate Christmas and New Year. We are reminding people to do this sensibly and take responsibility for your alcohol intake and your actions. As is the case throughout the year, we will not tolerate disorder or violence from a minority. We will be working with pubs and partners so that everyone is able to enjoy the festive season safely.”
Chief Insp Gareth Boxall is coordinating policing of the city centre with a focus on the busy nights over this weekend, Christmas Eve and New Years Eve. He said: “We will have an increased number of officers on duty during the afternoon, evening and night time and will be assisted by our own Special Constabulary officers. We will be working with British Transport Police, City of Lincoln Council, Lincoln Street Pastors and others to ensure the city is safe.”
Melanie Carol is from the Lincoln Street Pastors - she tells us they'll also be out and about tonight:
"Lots of people having lots of fun also sadly means sometimes people have a little bit too much fun, and may need a little bit of assistance from the street pastors and so we basically go out onto our city streets just to make sure that everybody has the best time that they can in the city.
"A lot of people will be quite sensible. They go out in teams and groups and there will be like the designated driver or the designated sober one, and that's always lovely to see. But sometimes people don't. Also one of the other things we'll probably end up doing is we provide a handy shoulder to cry on, because sometimes Christmas can be a little blue for some people."
Melanie shared this advice for those who'll be drinking:
"Please do drink water; for every two alcoholic drinks, ask for a glass of water. If you are going out, do make sure you have a meal before, just so that there's a little bit of something in your tummy. Make sure you've charged your phone. Also, if you're going out with a group, do designate someone to be your sober person. Mostly just have fun, but have safe fun."
People are also being warned of the consequences of drinking and driving as police continue Operation Limit.
They say they're continuing to keep our roads safe with a zero tolerance for drivers above the legal limit for alcohol and drugs.
The December drink/drug drive campaign launched on 2nd, and continues with check points at key locations.
So far this month, 61 people have been arrested on suspicion of drink or drug driving related offences.
Further, they are are planning for and anticipating a rise in the number of reports of domestic abuse over the coming weeks.
Based on figures over the last three full calendar years (2021-2023 inclusive) reports of domestic abuse increased by 2% in December when compared to the rest of the year. Taking out the summer months, when we also see a peak in figures, December reports increased by 5% when compared to the rest of the year. In view of this, we will continue to highlight vital messages of advice, help and support for those affected.
Lincolnshire Police lead for domestic abuse, Detective Chief Inspector Rachael Cox said:
“Christmas can be a time of extra stress and increased time with family. This means that those people enduring abusive behaviour may be dreading the holidays, in fear that the abuse may escalate at any time. We want to reach those people with the message that we are here for you, but regardless of if you chose to report to us, there is help and support available.”
Help and support for domestic abuse:
LDASS offer information, advice and where eligible, specialist intervention support. You can make an online self-referral, or call 01522 510041 (office hours).
If you have concerns that a partner or ex is abusive, you can ask us under Clare’s Law if there is information that we hold that means they may be a risk to you. This is also called the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme. You can ask for yourself or someone else you are worried about.
Safe Spaces are consultation rooms you can use to find out about your options and the support available. They are there to give you sanctuary, away from the prying eyes of your abuser. Safe Spaces are available in pharmacies including Boots, Coop, Morrisons and Superdrug and also at certain banks.
The National Domestic Abuse Helpline is always open: 0808 2000 247
We are always open: call us on 101 or 999 if it’s an emergency.
Find more support organisations for domestic abuse.