Event to encourage responsible behaviour - Saturday July 10, 2010.

On Saturday July 10 an event to promote going out, staying safe takes place in Leamington Town Centre.


A multi agency safety and educational initiative, Your Town, Your Choice will provide individuals with the choice to behave in a responsible manner whilst on a night out in Leamington. Posters and leaflets are currently available from selected businesses in Leamington, and more information will be available on the night.


A joint partnership letter has been sent to local businesses in the area to inform them of the event. Pub and club owners have also been reminded of the important role they play in creating the right environment for a safe and enjoyable evening.


The event begins at 8pm with all activity taking place in Warwick Street.


Attractions include:


* A tent providing non alcoholic drinks along with freebies and useful literature.


* A Fire & Rescue Service vehicle


* A mobile police station


Community Safety Partners will also carry out a street-audit looking at the environment of the town centre including lighting and street furniture.”


George Stepney, Warwickshire Police Community Intervention Manager said: “Police and partner agencies have successfully reduced incidents of violent crime in Leamington and we hope that Your Town, Your Choice will capitalise on this improvement.


“Safety and crime prevention items in the form of bottle top caps, flip-flops, water and alcohol test strips will be available from the tent, to help promote responsible drinking and keeping safe whilst enjoying a night out in Leamington.”


Warwick District Council quote: Cllr Bernard Kirton, Community Protection Portfolio Holder, Warwick District Council & Chairman of Safer South Warwickshire said: “ Everyone has the right to enjoy a night out in Leamington Town Centre but it shouldn’t be at the expense of other users and businesses. We want everyone to be safe and feel safer and the simplest way to do that is to plan your evening, drink safely, stay with and travel home with friends”


In support of the initiative, Inspector Faz Chishty said: “During the night police and partners will actively engage with the public and re-enforce the message to the small minority who cause trouble and behave badly, that their behaviour will not be tolerated in Leamington Town Centre.


“We endeavour to change their mindset, enabling residents and visitors to enjoy a trouble free night out and further protecting communities from harm.


“It is also important to underline to those misbehaving and engaging in violence, that their behaviour could have a long term impact on themselves, possibly resulting in a criminal record and long term health problems.”


Warwickshire County Councillor, Richard Hobbs Portfolio Holder for Community Protection welcomes the event. He said: “Working together with residents and partners helps us to tackle issues like crime, anti-social behaviour, criminal damage and alcohol and drugs misuse at local levels.


“The event will provide the perfect opportunity for people to get an insight in to the fantastic work going on to ensure communities are safe. In addition they offer the chance for residents to find out more about getting involved and helping out.”