With 'Black Eye Friday' just hours away, police and council bosses are urging Newcastle revellers to look after each other this Christmas.
Thousands of people are set to descend on the city tomorrow to celebrate the festive season with friends, family and colleagues. But the last Friday before Christmas gets its unfortunate name for a reason, as trouble can brew after a few too many drinks.
With this in mind, Northumbria Police has confirmed that officers will be carrying out dedicated patrols of the city centre to ensure that people stay safe.
READ MORE: Family's hope that brave Shiremoor four-year-old battling cancer will be home for Christmas
Northumbria Police neighbourhood inspector, Karen Madge, said: “We want everyone to feel safe and comfortable on a night out in Newcastle. As a force, we continue to have a big footprint in the city centre.
"During the festive period, and at all times of the year, dedicated officers from our Operation Cloak initiative will be carrying out patrols, engaging with people, and identifying anyone who might need assistance. We are pleased that we are supported in this work by all partners in the city’s night-time economy, including venue door staff and licensing teams in the local authority.
“If you are planning on having a night out in Newcastle this Christmas, please enjoy yourself. Should you need the police, please do not hesitate to contact us.”
Meanwhile, Newcastle City Council has issued safety advice to those planning to celebrate in the city centre over Christmas and New Year. It also confirmed that it has deployed uniformed marshals on the streets and improved street lighting across the city in a bid to keep people safe.
Cllr Lesley Storey, Newcastle City Council cabinet member for a Vibrant City, said: “Newcastle is a fantastic city with a thriving nightlife and I’m sure many people are looking forward to celebrating during the festive season.
“A huge amount of work goes into keeping people safe in the city such as training staff at pubs, bars and clubs to recognise the signs of sexual harassment so they can intervene and keep customers safe. We have also deployed uniformed marshals on the streets and improved street lighting across the city.
“We will continue to work closely with partners and businesses so we can ensure those who want to enjoy a night out can do so in safe and friendly environment. If you are going out over the festive period, please take care of each other and have a fun and safe time.”
Newcastle City Council safety advice for drinkers
- People are advised to stay with their group of friends, drink responsibly and to not leave drinks unattended.
- If someone has had a bit too much to drink, make sure they are safely accompanied home.
- If you do notice anything suspicious or spot someone in distress, please report it to a member of staff in the venue or contact the police.
- When it’s time to go home, people are urged to plan ahead so they know Metro, bus and train journey times or use licensed taxis.
- Only council-licensed hackney carriages are able to pick up in the city without pre-booking. All private hire vehicles must be booked through a licensed company and cannot be hailed down in the street.
- If you see anything suspicious in the city, please report it to police by calling 101 or by using the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of their website. In an emergency, or if a crime is taking place, always dial 999.
READ NEXT:
- Mum with terminal brain tumour's heartfelt thanks as appeal to make memories with daughter raises thousands
- Everything you need to know about Newcastle's New Year Laser Light City
- Inside Thali Tray as Newcastle's popular Indian street food restaurant launches at Bealim House this Christmas
Inside Newcastle's new cocktail bar where drinkers can sit around a bathtub, bed and hob
See inside Newcastle's 'secret library' just a stone's throw from Central Station
