Police step up festive patrols

Police say Harrogate does not have an anti-social behaviour problem

Police patrols in a North Yorkshire spa town are being stepped up in the run-up to Christmas to prevent alcohol-fuelled disorder, officers said.

Street patrols and the use of CCTV cameras are being maximised in Harrogate as the party season gets under way.

Known trouble hot-spots will be targeted and police will be visiting licensed premises.

Officers said the town did not have an on-going anti-social problem.

Sgt Alastair Procter who is leading the operation said: "In my experience very few people go out for a night of violence, pain or upset.

"But sometimes this can quickly change when tempers flare over something quite innocuous.

"The vital ingredient for something small to get blown out of all proportion is often, too much booze."

Mr Procter said festive revellers should know their limits and stick to them.