Staffordshire police launch initiative to tackle disorder

Staffordshire police have responded to concerns about disorderly conduct at closing time by putting more police on the beat at weekends.

The uniformed patrols, including a sergeant, four PCs and a number of special constables, are targeting the towns of Sandbach, Congleton and Alsager on Fridays and Saturdays between 10pm and 3am.

The initiative has been named Operation Nightlife Police, with police and publicans hoping the sight of uniformed officers on the streets at night will reassure people that they can enjoy a night out without feeling intimidated or at risk.

Chief Inspector Paul McHugh, who is coordinating the initiative, said: "The officers respond to intelligence which is updated daily. They concentrate on areas where trouble is likely. It is high visibility policing aimed at making people feel safe but not intimidated."

Cells at Congleton Police Station, which is normally only manned during the daytime, are being kept open during the operation so officers don't have to waste time travelling with prisoners.

Chief Inspector McHugh said: "The initiative seems to be working well. There have been eight arrests in the area so far and we have seen a reduction in the number of violent crimes committed, including serious assaults.

One licensee in Sandbach contacted by thepublican.com, who asked not to be named, said: "The main problems have been in the high street area where groups of young people gather. The police initiative seems to have made a difference and we understand it's going well."