Revellers using the railway urged to be sensible and safe

As Christmas approaches more and more people will be heading out to celebrate the festive season with friends and family.

Now December is upon us, Christmas parties will start in earnest and British Transport Police in the North West are calling on all revellers using the railway to be sensible and stay safe.

Superintendent Pete Mason said: “Everyone wants to enjoy Christmas and the festivities that go with it – this often includes going out to parties and drinking alcohol.

“We certainly don’t want to tell people not to enjoy themselves, but we are asking everyone to think carefully about their nights out and to drink and behave responsibly.

“When you have had too much alcohol your judgement can be impaired and you may take risks that, when sober, you would never consider.

“Similarly, alcohol lowers inhibitions and behaviour which you would normally see as inappropriate may, in a drunken state, seem acceptable. This is not the case and those sharing the train carriage with you will certainly not be impressed.”

But it is not just the behaviour of those who have had a drink that raises concerns.

Supt Mason added: “Excessive alcohol can make people extremely vulnerable – judgement and co-ordination is impaired and any prospective thief looking for an easy target may well seek out those who have had too much to drink.

“British Transport Police across the North West will be running operations throughout December to make rail staff and passengers as safe as possible this Christmas, but we need the public to help limit opportunities for criminals.

“My advice is quite simple. Keep your wits about you when out at Christmas. By all means have a drink and enjoy yourself, but do so responsibly and always be aware of your surroundings and your belongings.

“If you have had a drink, consider how your behaviour impacts on other people and try to ensure that your enjoyable night out is not ruining that of others.”