PCC urges public to stay safe during Festive Friday
Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall, is urging the public to stay safe and act respectfully and responsibly during Festive Friday. Festive Friday is the term used for the Friday before Christmas where colleagues, families and friends gather in restaurants, bars and pubs to celebrate the festive season. Festive Friday is one of the busiest days of the year for emergency services.
COVID-19 regulations have placed restrictions on establishments across the county as Cumbria is in Tier two. Pubs, bars and restaurants can only operate if they are serving food, alcohol can only be served with substantial meals. Restaurants must provide table service only and must close at 11pm with last orders at 10pm. Nightclubs are closed.
Speaking on Festive Friday, PCC Peter McCall, said: “Festive Friday is usually one of the busiest nights of the year for Cumbria Police, but we do expect it to be calmer this year due to COVID-19.
“The past few years, I have been out on patrol with the Police on Festive Friday and have seen for myself that most people behave responsibly and only a minority end up on the wrong side of the law.
“Even though the UK-wide lockdown has ended, COVID-19 is still very real and present in our community, the roll out of the vaccine is going to take many months to reach everyone and so we must continue to observe the COVID-19 regulations that are now in place, for the safety of others including staff working in hospitality venues.
“If you are out celebrating in accordance with the current regulations in Cumbria, please drink responsibly and be respectful, of those around you.
“The Police will be out on patrol and if you are caught breaking regulations or acting in an anti-social manner you can expect them to take appropriate action.
“This year clearly has been difficult for everyone, we do want people to enjoy themselves as much as possible, and our hospitality industry does need our support – but safely and within the rules.
“Christmas is a time for joy and celebration please do not ruin it for yourself by breaking the law, or being responsible for passing on the virus.
“Enjoy yourself, drive sober and have a safe and lawful Christmas.”
