Have a ball – but do it safely is the seasonal message from guardian angels patrolling the streets of Inverness this Christmas.
Police and other crimefighters yesterday launched their latest festive season campaign aimed at tackling antisocial behaviour but also striking a balance to ensure revellers get home safely after a night on the town.
The Highland-wide “Operation Respect” initiative has swung into action for an eighth consecutive year, involving the force, the city’s business promotions body Bid and volunteer street pastors.
The operation is also backed by the city’s community safety partnership, taxi marshals and the British Red Cross.
“It’s simply about giving a safer feel to the city,” according to its coordinator, Inspector Kevin MacLeod.
“Enjoy yourself, but do it safely,” he said. “If you’re drinking, do so responsibly.”
In addition to increased patrols of licensed premises and taxi ranks, the focus is on the security and safety of shoppers and businesses.
Plain-clothed officers are targeting shoplifters in the city centre and retail parks.
Street pastors, venturing out in teams of six on busier nights, will meanwhile be on hand with advice and have a “safe-zone van” for emergencies.
The volunteers will be around for several hours during the day but predominantly available on the streets between 10pm and 4am.
Coordinator of the street pastors welfare service, Mark Hadfield, said: “The key is to plan things. Make sure you know who you’re out with, who you’re going to get back with, that you’ve got money for getting home, that mobile phones are charged up and, although it’s not very fashionable, you’ve got warm clothes – it really does get cold.
“Our van’s got a heater in it, we’ve got a good stock of blankets, if people need to warm up. They can get a hot drink and sit in the van.
“We’re here for listening, caring and helping. If people want to have a chat, we’re around. But if people feeling during the night they need a bit of help, or they spot anyone who is vulnerable, come and grab us and we’ll do what we can to help.”