Police crack down on alcohol fuelled crime in Wirral

Jul 16 2008 by Laura Jones, Birkenhead News

A CLAMPDOWN on alcohol fuelled violence is underway in Wirral with police out in force this month and 64 people arrested.

Police have been targeting nightlife hotspots to charge troublemakers with offences including drunken disorderly behaviour and violence.

The operation started on July 4 and will concentrate on keeping weekend drinkers safe, with high visibility policing in Wirral's most popular party locations, Birkenhead, Hoylake and New Brighton.

In response to the epidemic of knife crime sweeping the UK the team has also set up eight airport-style metal detectors to catch those carrying knives in train and bus stations as well as club and pub entrances.

Licensee Tony Reid of The Beach, Birkenhead said: “We are happy to be working with the police to try and reduce alcohol related violence and disorder within the night time economy in Wirral.

“The knife arch is a walk through metal detector and although over 500 people were ‘searched’ over the weekend, there were no knives or other offensive weapons discovered.”

Test visits to bars, pubs and off-licences are being made to make sure alcohol isn't being served to under age youngsters.

Inspector Mick Blease said: “We will be adopting a zero tolerance approach towards alcohol fuelled crime and disorder in a bid to ensure that those enjoying a night out in Birkenhead can do so in safety without the threat of violence.”