Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Monday 7th April 2025 at 13:55hrs
Lancashire Police are set to increase their presence in and around pubs and clubs across the county this Easter weekend as part of a dedicated operation to crack down on crime, with a particular focus on violence against women and girls.
The initiative will see both high-visibility and plain-clothed officers patrolling key night-time economy areas, actively looking for suspicious activity and potential offending behaviour.
Police aim to proactively prevent offences from occurring and will take decisive action when necessary. The increased presence also intends to provide reassurance to those enjoying a night out during the Easter celebrations.
Leading the operation, Chief Inspector Chris Abbott, stated,
“We want to ensure our county is a safe, vibrant and friendly place for people to come and enjoy a night out with friends or family.”
He added, “We already police the night-time economy and have good relationships with partner agencies and licensees but over the Easter weekend there will be dedicated patrols on duty.
This extra activity will build on the existing work we do to target, amongst other things, violence against women and girls.”
The police will be working collaboratively with partner agencies and, in some areas, support workers such as street pastors.
This joint effort will allow for the provision of help and advice to individuals who may find themselves in vulnerable situations during their night out.
Furthermore, Lancashire Police will be working closely with licensees to promote safety initiatives like the “Ask for Angela” scheme, which allows individuals feeling unsafe to discreetly seek help from bar staff.
In a bid to deter drink spiking and increase the chances of catching offenders, officers will also be utilizing drink testing kits in licensed premises.
Chief Inspector Abbott emphasized the proactive nature of the operation.
“We will have a high visibility presence in town centres and we will be paying visits to licenced premises, proactively engaging with members of the public, and taking positive action where we feel people may be particularly vulnerable,” he said.
The police hope that this increased operational activity will not only reassure visitors but also serve as a strong deterrent to anyone contemplating criminal activity within the county.
“Our message to offenders is clear: We will not tolerate incidents of harassment, intimidation or predatory behaviour. Nor do we want to see violence or drug use on licensed premises. Offenders will be identified and, where appropriate, put before the courts,” Chief Inspector Abbott asserted.
Lancashire Police are urging anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviour or requires assistance during their night out to approach officers, bar staff, or support workers.
The increased patrols will be in effect throughout the Easter weekend.
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