Mansfield: Drug dogs and breathalysers to be used in town on ‘Mad Friday’

Officers will also be supporting doorstaff, equipped with breath testing equipment, to discourage those who have had too much to drink on 19th December.

Those wishing to enter bars can be subject to testing as a condition of entry and any drugs found will be seized.

Operation Abridge will target alcohol and drugs-related violence in the town, as well as Ashfield, Worksop and Newark.

Chief Inspector, Paul Murphy, said: “We have been using these operations to keep people safe. This weekend is typically a very busy one due to it being the last weekend before Christmas and there will be a visible police presence bringing together the range of tactics used throughout the year.”

The operations underline the Alliance Against Violence campaign, following on from licensing and drugs enforcement work carried out throughout the year.

Licensing officers will also be ensuring venues adhere to safety measures such as CCTV equipment working correctly and carrying out ID checks.

The police will be working with partner agencies such as East Midlands Ambulance Service, Nottingham Crime and Drugs Partnership and street pastors who will be engaging those out and about.

Insp Murphy added: “My message to revellers is; think about your safety and the safety of those around you. Be responsible for your drinking and if you are planning to bring drugs into our town and city centres turn around and go home. You will be caught.”

“It’s also worth reminding that ID will be checked.”