POLICE officers across Cumbria will be out in force on New Year’s Eve to offer reassurance to revellers who are due to attend celebrations across the county.

Following on from Cumbria Constabulary’s crack down on alcohol and drug-related violence and disorder over the festive period, increased police patrols will pay attention to busy pubs and clubs in a bid to ensure that 2014 begins safely.

The ‘Constabulary launched its ‘One punch can change two lives’ campaign in the run up to the festive season. It reminds party-goers of the consequences of losing control through alcohol consumption.

Officers will be working with licensed premises to prevent people who are already drunk being served further alcohol. Pubwatch will also continue to inform local licensees about those who have been banned, especially for violent disorder.

Superintendent Andy Towler said: “Everyone has a right to enjoy themselves this New Year’s Eve without intimidation or fear of violence.

“We will have enhanced police patrols out and about across the county to take early action with a view to defusing incidents before they escalate into violence.

“It is only a minority who become involved in violence or disorder and by providing extra officers, we are able to monitor situations and intervene before they escalate.

“We will not tolerate people who put others at risk of harm by engaging in violent behaviour. We will seek to put those who engage in any form of violent behaviour before the court. Anyone who behaves anti-socially will also potentially face a fine and also have a criminal record.

“At this time of year police officers do come into contact with people who normally don’t get into trouble. They may have over indulged and in a situation which has escalated quickly, before they know it are in trouble with the police.

“We want everyone to enjoy New Year’s Eve and not end up facing a day in court in 2014 because of losing control while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.”