POLICE have launched their annual Christmas campaign to crack down on drink-related problems over the festive period.

One in every five arrests during Christmas is for assaults and a significant number are drinkrelated.

Speaking about the ‘Have the Christmas You Deserve’ campaign, Assistant Chief Constable Anthony Bangham said: “We want people to be sending positive messages to their friends and family – not having to phone their loved ones to tell them they’ve been arrested and spent the night in police custody.”

There will be an increased police presence in town centres on busy nights as well as a range of other measures, such as specific operations to target drug misuse and patrols of certain areas.

ACC Bangham added: “We want everyone to have a safe and happy Christmas.

“Our message is to enjoy yourselves but to celebrate responsibly and make sure you spend the festive period with your friends and family and not with the police.”

For more information visit www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/christmas/