Archive Council News

05.12.06

Launch of "Calling Time on Violent Crime" Christmas 2006 Campaign

As the festive season approaches and plans are well in hand for Christmas nights out, Wrexham's Community Safety Partnership is busy making sure everyone has a good time and that the town centre continues to be a safe place.

The Partnership is committed to reducing levels of violence and alcohol related crime in Wrexham town centre and have today outlined just some of the initiatives in place that will be used to ensure everyone enjoys themselves and remains safe.

This year talking boxes will be used in Brook Street and High Street which will let people know that they are being observed on CCTV and that their behaviour is being monitored. The Rapid Response Vehicle will also be in action over the Christmas period and two Paramedics will be able to provide roadside treatment and assessment for minor injuries within the town. This will reduce the demand for Accident and Emergency treatment and ensure prompt response to accidents and injuries within the town centre.

Wrexham's Street Pastors will also increase the number of evenings they are out and about and will be offering practical advice and helping those a little the worse for wear find their way home safely. Door staff and taxi marshals will be clearly visible in reflective jackets.

The campaign includes the successful "Calling Time on Violent Crime" posters and T-Shirts and these will be distributed to pubs and clubs in the area. The dangers of having drinks "spiked" will also be highlighted with the successful "Spike" hedgehog being promoted amongst young people and bottle stops will also be available for customers.

Revellers will be treated to a lollipop at the end of the evening and national research shows that this really does have a calming effect on people and reduces the likelihood of violence breaking out.

Other initiatives during the party season include the use of CCTV to identify known troublemakers in order to remove them from the area.

Malcolm Russell, Chair of the Partnership, said:

"This is all about partnership. We will work closely with licencees so that we can look forward to Christmas with the confidence of knowing that Wrexham is a safe place to come and enjoy a night out with friends and relatives. Violent and anti social behaviour will not be tolerated and offenders will be dealt with quickly."

Inspector Chris Beasley, said;

"Our message is clear; we want everyone to enjoy themselves and to be safe in the town centre. However, anyone intent on spoiling someone else's enjoyment will be dealt with quickly and efficiently"