Mansfield: Make sure you know how you will be getting home after your festive night out

This is the message from Mansfield Partnership Against Crime (MPAC) and Mansfield Business Improvement District (BID).

Concerns were first raised by police who had to assist taxi drivers, removing people from vehicles that were pre-booked by others and defusing tension among queuing customers.

Lots of people also left groups of friends to go in search of taxis, only to find themselves left alone for considerable lengths of time, which goes against personal safety advice.

To curb potential problems over the rest of the festive period, Mansfield Town Centre Sergeant, Colin Kirkup said: “We are reminding people to book taxis in advance or organise a lift with someone who is not drinking alcohol.”

“This is particularly important after 27th December when the nightrider bus service that currently operates from town on Saturday nights comes to an end.”

“Information is being distributed to licensed premises, as well as through partner social media channels, to get the reminder to as many people as possible.”

“We want everyone to have a night to remember for all the right reasons, and thinking ahead about who is taking them home is an important part of this.”

Over the Christmas period, police have been supported by street pastors and marshals who provide invaluable assistance, helping drunken people, keeping revellers safe and freeing officers to deal with incidents.

They are funded by MPAC and Mansfield BID.