Operation Thinksafe Drinksafe

Over the weekend (25–27 May) Greater Manchester Police officers visited nearly 300 pubs and clubs across Greater Manchester, while the majority were found to be complying with their license conditions, there were three voluntary closures, one forced closure and 14 arrests were made for drugs and other alcohol-related offences.

Operation Thinksafe Drinksafe comes in response to public concern about violent crime, disorder and antisocial behaviour in town centres linked to excessive drinking. According to ACPO statistics, nearly 80 per cent of all violence is linked to alcohol consumption.

Excessive drinking also puts health at risk and in extreme circumstances can require admittance to Accident and Emergency departments putting pressure on already stretched emergency services.

GMP Deputy Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: “We all have a responsibility to ensure that a night out is a good experience and does not escalate into drunken violence that compromises people’s safety.

“We want people to enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Greater Manchester, but to do it responsibly, and avoid trouble by walking away. It is also important to ensure that violence is not acceptable behaviour as even minor outbursts can have devastating outcomes – one drunken wild punch or shove can have lasting consequences, and can even kill.

“We are determined to help responsible landlords who refuse to serve those that are underage or who those that have clearly drunk too much. We will support them in putting the safety of those enjoying their hospitality first as well as meeting their legal obligations.

“Unfortunately, it is just a small minority of people who, when they drink to excess, find themselves in violent situations and spoil it for the majority. It’s these people we’re encouraging to think about their behaviour, the consequences of it and to avoid getting involved by walking away from trouble.”

Derek Cartwright, Director of Emergency Services for NW Ambulance Service said: "Many people do not realise that when ambulance assistance is required as a result of incidents relating to alcohol consumption and associated anti-social behavior, they can be delayed in getting to people that really need our help. We urge people to think first, drink sensibly and remain aware of their actions so they can enjoy themselves in good spirit and, essentially, keep ambulances free to attend to those with serious life threatening conditions."