Rochdale Red Cards Alcohol Related Violence
Date published: 09 May 2006
A major initiative to tackle alcohol-related crime and disorder in the run up to the World Cup is being launched today across Rochdale, Middleton, Heywood, Littleborough and Milnrow.
Police are joining forces with local authorities and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, as part of the Home Office backed ‘Think Safe Drink Safe’ campaign.
Officers will be working with local partners to prevent underage sales of alcohol and anti-social behaviour. Staff from Trading Standards and Environmental Health will be taking part in the initiative, as well as licensees and retailers.
High visibility patrols will be bolstered near to licensed premises and off-licences, with test purchase operations and visits being conducted to ensure venues are being run responsibly.
To compliment this, officers will be providing and encouraging premises to display literature warning members of the public that it is an offence to purchase alcohol if you are under the age of 18 or on behalf of a minor. Staff will also be expected to check for identification if they suspect customers are underage, to ensure premises are managed properly.
Tough new powers under the Licensing Act 2003 will enable police to issue closure orders on premises acting irresponsibly and those fuelling alcohol-related crime and disorder.
Mobile video recording equipment and CCTV will be used to help curb crime and keep people safe during a night out. Street drinking bans will also be reinforced across the area and on the spot fines of £80 will be issued for drunk and disorderly behaviour, urinating in the street and to bar and shop staff for serving underage drinkers and people who are already drunk.
Chief Inspector John Martin from Rochdale Division, said, “During the World Cup we expect many people to be visiting pubs, bars across Rochdale and the surrounding areas to support their country, purchase alcohol and to enjoy football matches.
“This local campaign is all about setting high standards before the event begins, to ensure that licensees and retailers are creating safe environments for their customers and are operating in a responsible manner.
“The vast majority of venues in Rochdale, Middleton, Heywood, Littleborough and Milnrow are lawful and well managed, but we will be working with our partners to actively target those that flout the law and fuel alcohol-related crime.
“In the same way, action will be taken against the minority of people who try to cause trouble in local areas after consuming too much alcohol.
He added: “We will not tolerate such behaviour and will do everything in our powers to ensure that law abiding citizens can enjoy a safe night out without fear of falling victim to crime.”
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