Police step up patrols in Scarborough after reports of binge-drinking due to reduced pub hours

Extra officers were deployed in the area over Halloween and will continue to be out and about for a total of 10 days amidst reports of binge-drinking because of reduced opening hours.

The police say they are working closely with licensees to help ensure people enjoying a drink in the town stay safe and keep to the virus regulations.

The move came before the announcement of the national lockdown, which will force pubs to close from last orders on Wednesday. But there is concern that some people will binge-drink in the days before lockdown begins.

Chief Inspector Rachel Wood ,of Scarborough and Ryedale Neighbourhood Policing Command, said: “Under normal circumstances, this time of year is busy for the police and with the added coronavirus regulations to enforce, we have made the decision to deploy additional officers over the 10-day period.

“We have been working very closely with licensees who have worked extremely hard to ensure their premises are Covid-secure. "

She added a plea to people to do their bit to stop the spread of the disease.

"We’re asking for the public’s co-operation at this crucial time in the spread of Covid-19 and urge them to drink sensibly," she said.

"We know the vast majority of people will stick to the rules – as they have done already. But we’ve had reports of people binge-drinking due to the reduced opening hours, resulting in closer contact with lots of people. This puts themselves, other customers and staff at risk.

“We have seen what’s happening in other parts of the country with areas put into local lockdowns, this is the last thing we want in Scarborough.

"All we want is for people to stay safe, respect others, and protect themselves and their loved ones.

"It’s vital that our communities are able to thrive when we come through all of this. We can only do this if we all work together and do the right thing.”