Greek police visit Blackpool

Greek police hope to learn from their UK counterparts

Four Greek police officers are visiting Blackpool to see how the Lancashire force tackles drunken behaviour.

It follows a visit by two officers - Superintendent Andy Rhodes and Inspector John Donnelly - from the town to the infamous Greek holiday destination Faliraki, on the island of Rhodes, in August.

Senior Greek police officers have complained of drunk and disorderly behaviour among some young British holidaymakers.

The officers - two from Rhodes, one from Corfu and another from Crete - are investigating Blackpool's Nightsafe initiative, which is reducing drink-related problems.

They will join their UK counterparts at the resort's Syndicate nightclub and on patrol in the town, as well as inspecting its CCTV camera network.

Plastic bottles

Mr Rhodes said: "I am really pleased that this return visit is going ahead.

"We are looking forward to showing the Greek officers around the resort of Blackpool and in particular discussing with them the progress we have made in tackling alcohol-related violence through the Nightsafe initiative.

"Another issue we will be discussing with our visitors is the use of plastic bottles in pubs and clubs.

"These are a much safer option and a number of drinks are available in plastic bottles and if more manufacturers were to do this then the costs of production would greatly decrease."