POLICE have launched a campaign to crack down on drink-fuelled crime over the festive period.

One in five arrests at this time of year is for assaults – and most of them are drink-related.

Officers want to cut the number of violent offences in the run-up to Christmas, as well as criminal damage and public disorder.

The annual Have the Christmas You Deserve initiative aims to make people think about the seasonal message they want to send this year.

Asst Ch Con Anthony Bangham said: “We want people to be sending positive messages to friends and family at this time of year and enjoying Christmas, not having to phone their loved ones to tell them they’ve been arrested and spent the night in police custody.”

Police will mount more patrols in the coming weeks as well as a range of operations such as targeting drug misuse and anti-social behaviour.

Officers will also visit pubs, bars, off-licences and other venues to warn that a drunken night could have a big impact on punters and others if it turns to violence or disorder.

ACC Bingham said: “The types of offences we’re looking to highlight are ones which can be prevented.

“If we can encourage people to think about the outcomes of irresponsible behaviour and drunkenness, and help prevent them from doing something they regret, it’s better for everyone.

“Thankfully, the number of offences of all types we deal with on busy nights is relatively low but we’d like to see this reduce even further.”

Neighbourhood police teams will also be attending shopping events and daytime activities in the runup to Christmas to remind residents and visitors about protecting their belongings.

At this time of year, especially when shopping areas are busy, police are urging people to make sure they secure their belongings when out and about and take a few simple measures to secure their homes at night or when they are away.