Police warn about the dangers of getting into a drunken fight

Daisy Edwards, GMP Licensing Officer, Paul Heneghan, Litten Tree, Stuart Hallworth, Pacific and East Bar, Brian Hart, Blue Lounge, Superintendent Chris Hankinson, Mark Dorosz, Mango, Simon Crompton, The Baum, Carolyne Marsden, The Reed Hotel, and Inspector Steve Clarke

People enjoying a night out in Rochdale are being warned about the dangers of getting into a drunken fight, as Greater Manchester Police launches a hard-hitting campaign to combat alcohol-fuelled violence.

With the festive season now in full swing Greater Manchester Police is working to reduce the levels of crime caused by partygoers drinking too much alcohol.  Too much drink can turn a good night into a tragic disaster with people behaving in ways they wouldn’t do normally and finding themselves in vulnerable situations.

To prevent alcohol-fuelled violence, officers are working with local licensees and are increasing their town centre patrols.  They are also working to raise awareness about how too much alcohol can have devastating consequences and are encouraging people to enjoy a drink responsibly.

Young men aged 18-25 are the most likely to commit and be victims of serious violent crime.  Forty per cent of victims of violent and serious violent crime are young men and the vast majority of offenders are men (77 per cent of violent crime and 86 per cent of serious violent crime).

Alcohol-fuelled violence has claimed the lives of 13 people across the county over the past five years.

Superintendent Chris Hankinson said: “This campaign has been launched to raise awareness of the devastating effect that drinking too much can have on peoples’ lives. One punch can kill.

“Officers in Rochdale and our partners have been working closely with licensed premises and reminding them of their responsibilities when selling alcohol to the public.  There will also be a visible presence on the streets over the festive period.  We are not here to spoil the fun but would remind people to pace their drinks, walk away from trouble and stay safe.”

A spokesperson for Rochdale Town Centre Pub Watch said: “Thousands of people come to Rochdale Town Centre for a great night out. Trouble really is quite rare these days and there are many initiatives and partnerships such as CCTV, radio networks, SIA door staff & Best Bar None that further ensure public safety. Our message is have a good time, know your limits, drink responsibly & stay sensible.”

Officers across Greater Manchester are working with licensed premises, universities and taxi firms to promote the campaign.  Posters, window stickers and beer mats with a hard-hitting image are being displayed in pubs, clubs and bars.

To report crime call police on 0161 872 5050 or for more information visit www.gmp.police.uk.

You can also call anonymously with information about crime to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.  Crimestoppers is an independent charity who will not want your name, just your information.  Your call will not be traced or recorded and you do not have to go to court or give a statement.