The Safer Capital Partnership is warning people to steer clear of alcohol-related crime and disorder during the Six Nations rugby tournament- or spend the night in a bed and breakfast courtesy of South Wales Police.
The Safer Six Nations campaign is being launched this weekend with a film showing police cells being marketed as convenient accommodation – with lots of bars!
Launching today ahead of tomorrow evening Wales v England game, a short film will be shown on big screens in Cardiff city centre reminding visitors of the consequences of irresponsible drinking.
Front Line Support Officer Andrew McCarthy, who co-ordinated the animation, said: “The campaign is light-hearted but carries a very serious message which we are attempting to get across to people in a fun way.
“The message is: Your night out, your choice, don’t spend it with us. There are far better places to spend your night out than a police cell.”
Police, health and other data shows there is a strong connection between international sporting events – including but not limited to the Six Nations – and an increase in the number of reported incidents of alcohol related disorder, including binge drinking and aggressive behaviour.
The aim of The Safer Six Nations campaign is to highlight some of the associated risks of excessive alcohol consumption, promoting relevant support services and reiterating the importance of knowing your own limits regarding alcohol consumption.
City centre Inspector Tony Bishop added: “Cardiff is a safe city and we want to keep it that way.
“We want to welcome people into town who are here to enjoy the night-time economy and not get involved in alcohol-related crime and disorder.
“If they do get involved in this sort of behaviour then they will spend a night with us they will probably never forget.”
Police will also be visiting pubs and clubs to ensure licensing conditions are being adhered to.
Licensing officer Sergeant Scott Lloyd said: “Licensing teams will be out in the city centre during the Six Nations, particularly when there are home games, to ensure that licensed premises are complying with their licence.
“As the games are designated major event, the vast majority of premises should be using plastic glasses.
“Enforcement of legislation and licensing conditions is vitally important to ensure our city centre continues to have a safe night-time economy.”
Cardiff Council Deputy Leader, Councillor Judith Woodman, who co-chairs the Safer Capital partnership said: “We want people to enjoy the occasion and make the most of Cardiff’s atmosphere and there’s no reason why this can’t be achieved. It just needs people to behave in a manner that is socially responsible and doesn’t cause alarm or distress to others.”
