Patrols to be carried out in two town centres

Patrols will be taking place in Ashby and Coalville as part of the Christmas safety campaign.

Patrols will be carried out on the streets of two Leicestershire towns as part of a drive to keep people safe over the Christmas period.

The Celebrate Safely campaign will also include a knife arch being set up at undisclosed locations in the North West Leicestershire district from now until 1 January 2025.

The district council confirmed the measures, with patrols to take place in Ashby and Coalville, in a joint campaign including police and the fire service.

Michael Wyatt, North West Leicestershire District Council deputy leader, said: "The campaign is about ensuring everyone can enjoy the festive season while feeling secure and protected."

Patrols will involve street wardens inspecting security staff at licensed premises and giving drinkers test strips to see if their drinks have been spiked.

Wyatt also advised people to "plan their nights ahead" and encouraged them to make use of schemes such as Ask Angela, a system where people can report feeling uncomfortable to bar staff.

Staff will arrange for those making use of the scheme to leave a venue by a different route.