Extra police patrols for festive (From Gazette Series)

Extra police patrols for festive

THE new licensing laws may or may not create headaches for the police this month but patrols are being stepped up just in case.

The extra police activity, under the banner of Operation Aqua, coincides with the introduction yesterday of the new licensing laws and is also part of a national Alcohol Misuse Enforcement Campaign (AMEC).

AMEC started on November 14 and runs until December 24. New licensing laws came into effect yesterday giving some premises extended opening hours but also giving authorities tougher powers to deal with licensing infringements.

It is estimated that around one third of the UK's pubs, clubs and shops will take advantage of the new laws.

In Gloucestershire, Assistant Chief Constable Mark Polin, who will join patrols out in the county tonight, said: "The new licensing laws have been the subject of much debate in recent months and the simple fact is that we simply cannot tell at this stage what the impact will be locally.

"However, we are confident that by working with our partner agencies, and with licensees, as we have been for many months, we can avoid any major difficulties and we are fully prepared.

"In many instances, where extended hours have been granted, tough conditions are in place. Should any licensees deviate from the terms of their license we have extra patrols and spot checks being carried out to deal with it.

"The Licensing Act 2003 also gives us extended closure powers and there are tougher penalties in place for licensees who, for example, sell alcohol to those under age and breach licensing conditions.

"We also have a raft of measures we can bring to bear on troublemakers in the county, including penalty notices and, of course, arrest."

He added: "The message this winter is clear - by all means enjoy socialising and having a drink, but don't be irresponsible and ruin the enjoyment of others."

Gloucestershire Constabulary runs StreetSafe patrols in county towns and cities year round, however, this weekend those patrols will be supplemented by extra officers.

In the Cotswolds and Stroud Division officers will be using extra officers for StreetSafe patrols to tackle any alcohol-related disorder and carry out licensing checks.

The constabulary will also be running its annual Christmas drink drive campaign from the beginning of December. Last Christmas 46 people were arrested for drinking and driving in the county.

As well as administering roadside breath tests, county police will also be concentrating efforts on those suspected of driving while on drugs, which is seen as a growing problem.