MP reassured by Christmas policing

Jess Phillips was taken around Birmingham by police officers out on patrol

A home office minister has said she feels reassured by the policing in her home city of Birmingham this Christmas.

Jess Phillips, the Labour MP for Birmingham Yardley, went out on patrol with West Midlands Police officers with fellow minister, Diana Johnson.

They were out on so-called Black Eye Friday, which is known for increased incidents of alcohol-related violence and accidents at a time when many people go out for pre-Christmas drinks.

Ms Phillips said afterwards: "I felt a sense of relief about the city that I live in that young women can go out and enjoy themselves.

Chief Constable Craig Guildford said: "We want people to have a decent night out, but a safe night out.

"The idea is we try to nip things in the bud early doors, but we police all the way through."