Increased police patrols as part of Operation Yuletide

Throughout December and into early January, residents can expect to see an increased police presence as the force looks to spread some festive cheer, engage with the public, and keep everyone on the right side of Santa’s list.

The force is also be supporting the Home Office initiative, Winter of Action, which is a continuum of the Safer Streets Summer Initiative shining a spotlight on the teams that sit at the very core of policing.

The summer of intensified activity saw Neighbourhood Policing Officers patrol more than 5,800 miles – that’s the equivalent of walking top to bottom of the United Kingdom 10 times.

Leading on policing the festive period this year is Superintendent Caroline Andrews.

She said: “Like all emergency services, Christmas is one of our busiest times of the year. As the nights draw in and excitement for the big day builds, we tend to see an increase in reports of certain crimes.

“Sadly, for some Christmas is not a happy time of year and throughout December we particularly see an increase in domestic abuse, violent crime, and sexual offences.

“Reports of burglary also increase as opportunistic thieves look to target gifts under the tree. We also get more reports of drink driving as designated drivers think they can get away with having ‘just one more drink’.

“As a part of our promise to keep you safe, we’ll also be keeping you up to date as we continue to take criminals off the streets and look to provide reassurance that what you’re most concerned about is being dealt with by the appropriate and specialist teams.

“If you are heading out to enjoy a seasonal tipple or two, please be assured that our teams will be out and about, both in uniform and plain clothes, working with partners to make sure it remains the most wonderful time of the year.

“I ask that you please report any suspicious activity to our officers when you see them out and about, so that we can investigate and take steps to protect anyone in need of help."