HAVE a good time but stay safe is the message to people visiting Kidderminster pubs and clubs this Christmas.

Kidderminster Police, the Wyre Forest Community Safety Partnership, and Kidderminster Licensees Association (KLA) are urging everyone to enjoy themselves, but to be sensible.

As part of the police’s Operation Christmas Presence campaign, there will be high visibility patrols in the town centre. Officers will be cracking down on alcohol related violence, drink driving and drink spiking, and targeting the minority of people who ruin a night out for others with drunk and disorderly behaviour.

Under the Three Strikes scheme, anyone who misbehaves risks being banned from all pubs.

  • Strike one - a yellow card will be served by the police on anyone causing a nuisance or committing an offence after they have been drinking and the offender's details will be added to a database.
  • Strike two - should they go on to commit another drink-related offence they will receive a red card banning them for six months from all licensed premises taking part in the scheme and will be given a final warning that they risk receiving an anti-social behaviour order (ASBO) if they offend again. In addition they will receive a personal visit from an officer.
  • Strike Three - if they are dealt with for a third time they will be targeted for an ASBO.
  • Sergeant Louise Meeson, Local Policing Sergeant for Kidderminster Town, said: "We want to ensure that those who come into town for a night out can do so without fear of being assaulted or showered with glass because a window has been smashed by some idiot who has been drinking.

"We want people to have fun and enjoy their night out or Christmas party but the message is that if they misbehave they risk being banned from all pubs for six months or longer.

"We are working closely with licensees and doorstaff, who do a fantastic job and have our full support."

Kate Moore, Chairman of the KLA, added: "We are 100 per cent behind any move that helps make Kidderminster a safer drinking environment, and makes it a pleasant and happier place to come to, especially around the festive period."

As part of Operation Christmas Presence, lollypops will be given out to well-behaved customers as they leave pubs and clubs.

Lollies can help reduce the number of violent incidents and alcohol related crime and disorder, pacifying people and deterring them from taking part in aggressive behaviour.

Kidderminster Police's five top tips for a good night out are:

  • Don't drink too much
  • Look after your friends
  • Always protect your drink
  • Don't drink and drive
  • Walk away from trouble

  • The campaign is aimed at 17 to 35-year-olds, and to promote the messages, drinks mats and posters have been distributed to pubs and clubs across the Wyre Forest area.

To find out more about Operation Christmas Presence visit www.westmercia.police.uk.