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Festive warning
WITH the official countdown to Christmas beginning tomorrow, police and health chiefs have warned Souters to be safe and behave this festive period, writes Kenny Paterson.
December is the busiest month for emergency services in the Royal Burgh, with alcohol playing a part in more assaults, anti-social behaviour and disturbances.
It has led to Lothian and Borders Police launching a safety campaign in an effort to keep townsfolk from trouble.
Borders Safer Communities Chief Inspector Kenny Simpson said: “The festive period is a time of celebration and relaxation for our communities, many of whom will head out and about enjoying a night out with family, friends or workmates.
“It is therefore essential that police and our partners ensure the public are equipped with all the necessary advice and guidance on staying safe.
“Simple steps such as drinking responsibly, planning journeys to and from your home in advance and always being aware of your surroundings will help make sure your evening is an enjoyable one. As part of our commitment to keeping the public safe, we will be engaging with licensed premises across the Borders and urging staff to use their best judgement and refrain from selling alcohol to anyone who appears to have consumed too much. Licensees will also be asked to report any criminal activity on their premises to police immediately.”
Dr Eric Baijal, director of public health for NHS Borders and chair of the Borders Alcohol and Drugs Partnership, added: “We encourage everyone to enjoy themselves. However, it is important that individuals act and take responsibility for their alcohol intake, think of the consequences before it is too late and we would ask people to remain safe and look after themselves and their friends and family.”
Other initiatives by police include increased high visibility patrols, while officers and Scottish Borders Council’s licensing team will also carry out inspections of pubs.
Police will also offer advice to families whose homes are deemed vulnerable to break-ins.
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Weather for Selkirk
Saturday 25 May 2013
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 6 C to 17 C
Wind Speed: 8 mph
Wind direction: South west
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: 6 C to 17 C
Wind Speed: 14 mph
Wind direction: South west
