Safety officers on patrol for North Yorkshire’s World Cup celebrations
Initiative aims to reduce anti-social behaviour in town centres
This summer, dedicated safety officers will be patrolling the streets of Selby and Harrogate, ensuring fans enjoy the World Cup safely.
North Yorkshire Council, in partnership with the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, is implementing the patrols through the night marshal scheme, following a successful trial during the festive period last year.
Eboracum Security officers will be present in pairs at key locations showing the matches, providing guidance and help to reduce anti-social behaviour during peak evening hours.
Officers will patrol on specific dates, including 17th June, 23rd June, 27th June, and 19th July, with the potential for additional dates based on England's progress in the competition.
Cllr Heather Phillips, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for corporate services, highlighted the initiative's importance: "Major events like the World Cup bring excitement to our town centres, and safety officers will reassure people while managing anti-social behaviour."
North Yorkshire’s deputy mayor for policing, fire and crime, Jo Coles, said she was pleased to have been able to assist the council in the venture.
She said: "Football is brilliant at bringing people together, but unfortunately it also often brings increased policing pressures in our towns and city centres and heightened danger for women and girls.
“Mayor David Skaith and I are determined to do all we can to keep people safe in our region, so I’m delighted we've been able to work with partners and provide District Level Community Safety funding to support town safety officers who will carry out additional, visible patrols over the coming weeks.”