main content Safe and Sound as World Cup fever mounts

A new campaign will be launched by the Safer Bromley Partnership next week focusing on Bromley town centre in the run up to the World Cup.

Under the heading ‘Safe and Sound’, the multi-pronged attack concentrates on highlighting the penalties for those who get drunk, cause damage in the town centre and generally engage in antisocial behaviour. Posters, beer mats, post cards and t-shirts distributed in pubs and clubs are innovative ways to warn people that they face prosecution if they drink too much and act irresponsibly.

“There is undoubtedly a link between excessive drinking and crime and antisocial behaviour,” said Cllr. George Taylor, Executive Councillor for Public Protection and Safety and Chair of the Safer Bromley Partnership. “We want to tell those who drink too much and cause harassment to others that they face prosecution. And we are also sending out a clear message that we simply will not tolerate irresponsible landlords and club owners who go on serving alcohol to those who have obviously had too much or are under age.”

Safe and Sound also involves a number of other initiatives to help maintain the town centre as a pleasant place to spend time both during the day and the evening.

Police will be out with sniffer dogs, a taxi marshal scheme will operate in Market Square to help people to get home safely and regular street cleaning keeps graffiti and litter at bay. Street Pastors – representatives from Bromley’s churches – will be out and about on Friday and Saturday nights helping anyone who appears vulnerable.

Chief Inspector Ian Gallehawk of Bromley Police said: "We are keen for everybody in Bromley to enjoy the World Cup. However, we will be robust in dealing with anyone who engages in drunken, violent or antisocial behaviour. Not only will we arrest and charge anyone causing trouble, but we will also rigorously pursue football banning orders which will prevent offenders from attending football matches for 5 years.

"The World Cup is a fun event enjoyed by millions of people. Our message is very clear: come to Bromley and enjoy the experience, but if you engage in antisocial behaviour you will be arrested and charged."

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The Safer Bromley Partnership is committed to continuously improving safety in Bromley. We want a borough where people can live, work, play and learn safely. Our members include Bromley Council, Bromley Police, Health, Probation, Fire and London Ambulance Services, the Metropolitan Police Authority and Broomleigh Housing Association.
• For media enquiries, please contact Susie Clark, Communications Officer, on 020 8461 7911, or email susie.clark@bromley.gov.uk