Shropshire party-goers urged to stay safe this weekend

Extra officers working longer shifts than normal will be on duty to help keep people safe, including Superintendent Tom Harding, who was on duty in Telford and Shrewsbury last Friday, and will be on patrol again this weekend.

The force says regular officers will also be supported by volunteers from the Special Constabulary who will be out on patrol along with volunteers from Street Pastors.

Superintendent Harding, said: "Friday was a busy night and I know this Friday will be even busier, and as we did last weekend we will have extra officers on duty to help keep those enjoying a night out safe.

"On the whole most people who are enjoying a night out do so in good festive spirits, they're out having a good time and don't cause us any concern. But it is always good to take a few steps to make sure your night does go as planned and I would ask people to make sure they have plans to get home and look after their friends.

"If a friend has had a little too much to drink please don't leave them on their own, look after them and if necessary ask us to help."

He added: "Situations can quickly escalate when alcohol is involved, what starts as an argument can easily turn into a much more worrying situation and I'd just ask people to be aware of the impact alcohol can have on their behaviour.

"If we see a situation getting out of control, we will not hesitate to intervene and I'm sure most people do not want to wake up in a police cell over Christmas."