Police target festive revellers in 'One Punch' campaign

LOCAL police have issued some safety advice for revellers as the countdown to Christmas begins.

Police Scotland launched their "One Punch" campaign at the weekend as pubs and clubs get ready to serve legions of party-goers throughout December.

Police are urging people to drink sensibly and avoid alcohol-fuelled confrontation – saying "one punch is all it takes" for lives to be devastated.

Elgin-based Inspector Neil Campbell said: "We want people in the north-east of Scotland to enjoy themselves and feel safe socialising without a threat of violence.

"All it takes is one punch and many lives can be turned upside-down."

Insp Campbell advised: "If you find yourself in a confrontation, always take a breath and walk away."

He added: "As the Christmas office party season commences there will be a significant increase in the amount of people visiting licensed premises across the towns and villages of the north-east and consuming alcohol.

"My advice is to drink sensibly and ensure that you are in control of your senses and avoid any confrontation.

"Officers from the divisional and alcohol violence reduction unit and community policing teams will be on patrol in and around licensed premises each weekend over the festive period and the #SaferStreets initiative will begin later this month."

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