Police Scotland have launched their city centre operation for Stirling, aimed at keeping shoppers, revellers and locals safe over Christmas and New Year.
Operation Steadfast is a dedicated foot patrol operation focussing mostly on the city centre over the festive period and running from December 1 until January 8.
The focus - public safety and a dedicated presence during this busy time - is designed to provide reassurance to members of the public and businesses, whilst also providing an opportunity for increased community engagement.
Crime prevention advice, deterring criminality and quickly detecting any offenders is a focus of the operation.
Officers will maintain a presence on foot patrol within Stirling City Centre during the day when shopping is at its peak and during the evening to capture the night time economy.
Police will also engaged with shoppers at Dobbies Garden Centre and Springkerse Retail Park on designated days.
In addition to the regular foot patrols by uniformed officers in the shopping areas, the mobile police office is located at the pedestrianised area in Port Street on certain dates to provide the public with an opportunity to come and speak to local community police officers.
Other agencies have been invited to join the police at
these times to engage with the public and provide support to those who need it.
The mobile office was in Port Street on Saturday morning but will be back on Monday, December 12, from 1-3pm, Monday December 21 from 10am-noon, and Tuesday December 22 from 1-3pm.
Sergeant Alan Imrie, from Stirling Police Station, said: “We are delighted to launch Operation Steadfast – our campaign to keep people safe throughout the festive period.
“There will be targeted foot patrols in Stirling city centre and increased visibility at peak times in in shopping areas, as well as hospitality and entertainment venues.
“In addition to these patrols, we will be staging a public police office in the Port Street area, where members of the public can speak with local officers, who will be on hand to offer crime prevention and safety advice.
“We look forward to engaging with the community and businesses over the coming weeks and ensuring that it is a safe and successful festive period for everyone.”
